Commissioned by Enrico Wax of Genoa and badged as the 'Prototype EW' this car debuted at the 1960 Turin Motor Show as a new 2+2 Ferrari design. Wax was a long-time Ferrari customer who had the finances to support a new model and ordered other daring cars such as 0671SA.

Chassis 1739GT was sent as a bare SWB chassis to Bertone works in Turin to be transformed into this car. It's probably the most unusual SWB with features like a large mesh grill, bright greenhouse and disc wheels.

The alloy body was styled by Giorgietto Giugiaro. His design had a good balance and later lent its front end style when Pietro Frua copied it for the Glas 1700GT. The front end, including grill and headlights, pivoted forward to reveal the engine and a unique front subframe.

On the motor show stand, the 'Prototype EW' was painted in pearlescent paint that may have used fish scales to achieve its color. Inside, Bertone fashioned a custom interior out of leather and aluminum. Included was a pistol-grip shifter and new padded dashboard.

Since this was only the second Ferrari built by Bertone they were likely trying to score an order from Maranello with this showcar. In 1962, Bertone again made another car on chassis 3269GT.

Sources & Further Reading


1. Anselmi, Angelo et. al. Making a Difference, Le Edizioni Dell Opificio: 2006.




Story by Richard Owen