Ferrari-history as it’s often searched online—begins with one man’s passion for speed, laying the foundation for one of the most iconic names in racing. Enzo Ferrari, a former race car driver with a bold vision, founded a brand that came to define excellence in motorsport.
Before the roaring engines and world championships, Ferrari started as a dream fueled by determination, competition, and innovation. This is the early story of how Enzo built more than just a car—he built a legacy.
Key Takeaways
-
Ferrari’s origins lie in Enzo Ferrari’s passion for racing, starting with a modest workshop in 1939 and growing into a brand that blends performance, innovation, and heritage.
-
The company’s identity is deeply rooted in motorsport, from early endurance races to modern Formula 1 and Le Mans victories, with legendary drivers contributing to its global legacy.
-
Ferrari balances exclusivity and innovation, producing limited, high-performance vehicles that reflect both tradition and cutting-edge technology—including hybrids and bespoke models.
-
Beyond the racetrack, Ferrari has evolved into a global luxury brand, expanding into lifestyle, business, and entertainment while staying true to its Italian roots and iconic prancing horse emblem.
How Ferrari Began
Credits: @gilloudetrouvil / Pinterest
The early days of Ferrari’s journey are truly inspiring. It all started in Modena in September 1939 when Enzo Ferrari—freshly departed from Alfa Romeo—founded Auto Avio Costruzioni (AAC) as a workaround to a non-compete clause.
He established it at the old Scuderia Ferrari workshop on Viale Trento e Trieste. Officially, it repaired race cars and produced aircraft parts. In truth, it marked the start of something far greater—a dream engine destined to reshape racing history.
Auto Avio Costruzioni and the Early Company
AAC built the first car fully designed by Ferrari: the Tipo 815. Crafted in just four months for the 1940 Mille Miglia, it utilized a Fiat 508C chassis and engine, boasting an eight-cylinder, 1.5-liter configuration.
Only two were made. Although neither finished the race, the 815 made history as the first Ferrari-affiliated car in existence, even if it bore neither the name nor the famous prancing horse emblem due to legal restrictions.
Enzo’s Work with Alfa Romeo
Before founding AAC, Enzo spent nearly 20 years at Alfa Romeo—including time as a test driver after World War I and later as head of its racing division.
He founded Scuderia Ferrari in 1929 under Alfa’s name, but disagreements with Alfa’s leadership led to the Scuderia’s dissolution in 1937 and ultimately to his departure in 1939—leaving behind both funding and restrictions that would shape Ferrari’s next chapter.
Creating Ferrari S.p.A.
Credits: @jackwidmer / Pinterest
World War II brought racing to a halt, prompting AAC to shift its focus to manufacturing tools and military components. In 1943, the company relocated to Maranello to escape air raids.
After the war, in 1945, it adopted the name Ferrari, and by 1947 unveiled the 125 S—its first car to carry Enzo’s name and feature a signature V12 engine. That same year, Ferrari began producing road-going sports cars, officially marking the birth of Ferrari S.p.A. as we know it today.
Official Seat and Company Details
The company officially relocated to Maranello, which remains Ferrari’s global headquarters and the proud home of Scuderia Ferrari.
Since then, Ferrari S.p.A. has evolved into a publicly traded powerhouse producing over 13,700 vehicles in 2024 and generating more than €6.6 billion in revenue.
Today’s Ferrari reflects decades of racing heritage, engineering excellence, and a legacy built on Enzo’s original vision.
Famous Ferrari Cars
Ferrari’s early years shaped the legendary roster of models we celebrate today. Let’s explore how the brand grew from its first car to the iconic lineup it maintains now.
Ferrari’s First Car and First Road Car
Ferrari’s journey began in 1947 with the 125 S—a 1.5-liter, V12-powered race car. Although it didn’t finish its debut race in Piacenza, it embodied Enzo Ferrari’s bold vision. It was the first car built entirely under the Ferrari name—something Enzo had long dreamed of.
Just a year later, Ferrari introduced the 166 Inter, its first road car. Unlike the track-focused 125 S, the 166 Inter was made for everyday driving, yet it preserved Ferrari’s dedication to performance and craftsmanship. This model marked the beginning of Ferrari’s legacy of blending luxury and speed for a discerning, private clientele.
Race Cars vs. Road Cars
Credits: @carrosbemmontados / Pinterest
Ferrari has always walked the line between the racetrack and the road—and that balance is a key part of what makes the brand so powerful.
From its early Scuderia entries in endurance racing to its ongoing success in Formula 1, Ferrari has consistently pushed the limits of performance on the track.
At the same time, it has brought racing technology into its road cars. Today, models like the SF90 Stradale and 296 GTB feature hybrid powertrains born from innovations in motorsport.
This constant connection between racing and road driving is what keeps Ferrari uniquely positioned in an increasingly crowded sports car market.
High-Performance Sports Cars and Luxury Cars
Ferrari’s current lineup offers something for both speed enthusiasts and style-conscious drivers. Models like the 812 Competizione and Daytona SP3 are engineered for peak performance, featuring naturally aspirated V12 engines and bold, aggressive styling.
On the luxury end, the Roma and Purosangue deliver elegance and comfort—without compromising Ferrari’s signature speed and driving dynamics.
In 2024, Ferrari sold 13,752 vehicles and generated €6.68 billion in revenue, fueled by growing demand for personalization and hybrid technology. As someone who closely follows automotive trends, I’ve seen how Ferrari continues to evolve while staying true to what made it iconic in the first place.
The Famous Prancing Horse Symbol
Credits: @SeppFlatironDistrict / Pinterest
The prancing horse—known as the Cavallino Rampante—is one of the most iconic logos in the world, and its origin is as meaningful as it is memorable.
Enzo Ferrari adopted the emblem after meeting Countess Paolina Baracca, mother of World War I fighter pilot Francesco Baracca. She suggested Enzo use the horse that once adorned her son’s plane as a symbol of luck. Enzo agreed and added a yellow background to honor Modena, his hometown.
Since 1947, the prancing horse has appeared on every Ferrari, symbolizing speed, strength, and a deep-rooted Italian racing spirit. Even today, it turns heads and sets Ferrari apart from every other automaker.
Every Ferrari model tells a story—blending tradition, competition, and craftsmanship. From the roar of the 125 S to the sleek, electrified power of today’s hybrid supercars, Ferrari continues to define what a high-performance car can be.
Whether designed for the track or the road, each Ferrari carries the legacy of Enzo’s original vision—and the unmistakable spirit of the prancing horse.
Scuderia Ferrari Racing Team
I’m fascinated by Scuderia Ferrari’s origin. In November 1929, Enzo Ferrari founded the team in Modena to race Alfa Romeo cars. It began as a “gentleman driver” team, funded by local backers and Alfa Romeo’s support.
The team first wore the prancing horse emblem in the 1932 Spa 24 Hours. That logo became the foundation of Ferrari’s identity, even before it built its own cars. These early years laid the groundwork for a team built on racing passion and strategic partnerships.
Early Races and the Racing Team
In the 1930s, Scuderia Ferrari participated in events such as the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio. It also raced motorcycles briefly. After Alfa Romeo took over its shares in 1937, Enzo moved on and founded Auto Avio Costruzioni in 1939.
But racing never stopped. In 1947, Ferrari entered Formula One’s predecessor races and won its first Grand Prix that year. That win confirmed Ferrari’s shift from team to global competitor.
Racing Around the World and Sports Car Racing
Credits: @dreamgurl113 / Pinterest
Over the decades, Scuderia Ferrari has expanded its presence on the global stage—competing not only in Formula One but also in legendary endurance events like Le Mans, Daytona, Spa, Sebring, and the Targa Florio.
In the 1950s, Ferrari claimed five consecutive World Sportscar Championships with iconic models such as the 250 MM, 340 MM, and 330 P4.
More recently, Ferrari returned to top-tier endurance racing with the 499P prototype, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 2023 and 2024.
Alongside its legacy in Formula One, these achievements solidify Scuderia Ferrari as the most decorated racing team in motorsport history.
Scuderia Ferrari Today
Scuderia Ferrari is the only team to have competed in every Formula One season since the championship began in 1950. For 2025, the team is led by Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, with Frédéric Vasseur serving as team principal.
Renowned for its passionate tifosi, global brand influence, and a record 16 Constructors’ and 15 Drivers’ Championships, Ferrari remains a cornerstone of Formula One history.
While recent seasons have posed challenges, a return to form in 2025 could redefine the competitive landscape. With a renewed focus on podiums, hybrid innovation, and deep-rooted heritage, Ferrari is once again a team to watch.
From humble beginnings as a racing outfit in Modena to becoming a global motorsport icon, Scuderia Ferrari has always bridged the worlds of Formula One and endurance racing.
As someone who follows the sport closely, I’ve seen how each Ferrari race is more than a contest—it’s a living expression of speed, legacy, and the enduring spirit of Italian motorsport. Whether at Monza or Le Mans, when the red cars take the track, they carry decades of passion and performance in every lap.
Famous Ferrari Drivers
Scuderia Ferrari’s legacy shines brightest through its drivers. Their skill, courage, and character fueled each era of success, linking speed with story, performance with personality.
Here are the champions who’ve driven Ferrari’s legend.
Michael Schumacher and Other Champions
Credits: @janirnnkvist / Pinterest
Michael Schumacher remains Ferrari’s most iconic driver, securing five consecutive World Championships with the Scuderia from 2000 to 2004. During his time in red, he achieved 72 wins and stood on the podium 155 times.
I vividly recall when his F2001—a car he famously drove to victories in Monaco and Hungary—sold for $18.17 million at a Monaco auction in May 2025. That sale underscored just how deeply Schumacher and Ferrari are intertwined: the car isn’t just a machine; it’s a symbol of history and legacy fused together.
Alberto Ascari, Niki Lauda, Juan Manuel Fangio
Before Schumacher, legends like Alberto Ascari, Niki Lauda, and Juan Manuel Fangio set the high standards for Ferrari. In 1952, Ascari became Ferrari’s first World Champion, winning six consecutive races—including at Monza—and achieving an impressive win rate of over 40%.
Lauda secured Ferrari titles in 1975 and 1977, famously making a remarkable comeback after a near-fatal crash.
Fangio, while not all his championships were with Ferrari, remains the sport’s most successful driver by winning percentage. His name and prestige are inseparable from Ferrari’s golden era and enduring legacy.
Phil Hill, Jody Scheckter, John Surtees
Ferrari history includes drivers like Phil Hill, Jody Scheckter, and John Surtees. Hill made history as the first American to win an F1 championship in 1961. Surtees is still the only driver to win world titles on both motorcycles and four wheels, claiming the 1964 crown. Scheckter brought victory in 1979, marking the Scuderia’s last Drivers’ Championship before Schumacher arrived in 2000.
Sebastian Vettel and Other Race Drivers
In recent years, Sebastian Vettel revived Ferrari’s spirit between 2015 and 2020, securing 14 wins and setting the team’s all-time points record—surpassing Charles Leclerc earlier in 2025.
Today’s lineup features Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, both carrying impressive championship pedigrees. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari in 2025 adds a new chapter to the team’s storied history.
Scuderia Ferrari’s drivers are more than just winners—they are ambassadors of passion, determination, and creativity.
Each has helped shape Ferrari’s identity on the world stage. From Ascari’s dominance in the 1950s to Schumacher’s golden era and Vettel’s points record, these drivers have made Ferrari a lasting symbol of excellence.
Ferrari in Racing Events
Ferrari isn’t just a road-car legend—it’s a racing powerhouse, shaped by triumphant performances on diverse tracks. Here’s why certain events helped define its legacy.
Rome Grand Prix and Italian Grand Prix
In 1947, just months after its debut at Piacenza, Franco Cortese secured Ferrari’s first victory at the Rome Grand Prix driving the 125 S. This historic win at Caracalla signaled the start of Ferrari’s illustrious racing future.
The Italian Grand Prix—especially at Monza—has since become Ferrari’s signature race, a place where passion and heritage collide.
In 2024 and 2025, wins by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz reignited fan enthusiasm and strengthened Ferrari’s deep connection to its homeland. That national pride is what makes the Monza weekend feel truly electric to me every season.
Mille Miglia and Le Mans Races
Ferrari established its endurance racing credentials early on. Following the 125 S’s debut win, the 166 MM triumphed at the 1947 Mille Miglia, showcasing the brand’s durability and engineering excellence.
Fast-forward to the modern era, and Ferrari’s 499P has dominated Le Mans with consecutive overall victories in 2023, 2024, and 2025—including a landmark privateer win by AF Corse’s #83 car, driven by Robert Kubica, Yifei Ye, and Phil Hanson.
As a lifelong fan, seeing Ferrari reclaim its dominance at La Sarthe means everything—it’s a testament to the brand’s enduring spirit and resilience.
World Championships and Grand Prix Wins
Credits: @anouksocialz / Pinterest
Formula One is Ferrari’s stage. With 16 Constructors’ Championships, 15 Drivers’ Championships, and over 200 race wins, the team’s record speaks volumes.
Legends like Ascari and Schumacher laid the foundation, while today’s stars—Leclerc, Sainz, and Hamilton—are determined to bring Ferrari back to the top. On the endurance front, Ferrari’s six World Sportscar titles in the 1950s set the tone for decades of success.
Reflecting on Ferrari’s biggest victories, one thing is clear: across different disciplines and eras, Ferrari has defined what motorsport excellence truly means.
The team’s strength isn’t just in its cars or drivers—it’s in the performance delivered on legendary tracks, from Rome and Monza to La Sarthe. Every race adds a new chapter to the brand’s rich story.
As I follow their journey, I see Ferrari’s racing heart—powered by history and fueled by passion—beating stronger than ever.
Ferrari’s Business Side
Ferrari’s racing wins are legendary—but its off-track success is just as impressive. From its separation from Fiat to its emergence on global stock markets, Ferrari’s business strategy reflects Enzo’s passion for excellence and innovation.
Ferrari N.V. and Fiat Group
Ferrari began as a division of Fiat, later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), until it was spun off on January 3, 2016. That move allowed Ferrari to become an independent company—Ferrari N.V.—with its own governance and financial profile.
Fiat’s shareholders received Ferrari shares, while the Agnelli family, through Exor, and the founder’s son, Piero Ferrari, retained major stakes. This shift reinforced Ferrari’s identity as a luxury performance brand under its own control.
Company Registers and Board of Directors
Ferrari N.V. is incorporated in the Netherlands and headquartered in Maranello. Its board includes respected industry leaders appointed to uphold the brand’s values and sustain long-term growth.
Annual reports name Benedetto Vigna as CEO and list oversight committees focused on sustainability, ethics, and governance.
As a corporate observer, I’ve seen Ferrari apply its high-performance mindset from the track to the boardroom, using disciplined oversight to mirror its product excellence.
Stock Market and Tax Details
Ferrari trades under the ticker RACE on both the NYSE and Borsa Italiana (Mercato Telematico Azionario), with a market capitalization of approximately €60 billion as of mid-2025.
The spin-off avoided immediate tax burdens for most shareholders, achieving “tax-free spin-off” status under both Dutch and U.S. tax regulations.
If you’re an investor, you recognize how Ferrari balances strategic tax planning with shareholder appeal, leveraging its luxury brand to deliver steady returns.
Changes in the New Millennium
Since becoming independent, Ferrari has sharpened its focus on product quality over volume. In 2024, it reported €6.68 billion in revenue and over €1.5 billion in net income.
In Q1 2025, operating profit rose 22.7% to €542 million, with a margin of 30.3%—driven by stronger prices, hybrid models, and personalization features. That focus allows Ferrari to keep its luxury positioning while investing in electrification and limited-edition series.
With a disciplined board, public exposure, and strategic autonomy, Ferrari has succeeded as a brand and business. Its results show that the Ferrari way—precision, passion, and performance—works just as well in the boardroom as it does on the track.
Ferrari’s Impact and Legacy
Credits: @verdi_uwu / Pinterest
Ferrari’s success in racing and business reflects a vision larger than fast cars—it’s a global lifestyle brand rooted in excellence and emotion. For me, Ferrari has always represented more than performance; it stands for innovation, identity, and culture.
The Ferrari Brand and Its Promise
Ferrari sells more than cars—it promises an experience. The brand holds pricing power because it limits supply, allowing demand to exceed availability.
This scarcity model gave Ferrari a 27 percent operating margin in 2023, twice that of Porsche and four times the industry average.
I’ve witnessed this at auto shows—crowds guard their phones close when a Ferrari drives by. It’s that aura of exclusivity and craftsmanship that keeps the allure alive.
Leaders Like Luca di Montezemolo and Piero Ferrari
Leadership matters in luxury. Under Luca di Montezemolo (1992‑2014), Ferrari expanded into fashion, lifestyle, and theme parks, boosting profitability and recognition. His era marked the launch of the F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari supercars, reinforcing the brand’s halo effect.
Today, Piero Ferrari, as vice chairman, helps balance heritage with strategic oversight, ensuring innovation doesn’t dilute identity. That leadership blend, rooted in tradition and forward vision, is what makes Ferrari more than just a car maker.
Ferrari World Theme Park
Ferrari extends its legacy beyond roads with Ferrari World on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari theme park. It’s home to the Formula Rossa—the fastest rollercoaster in the world—and saw attendance grow by 20 percent in 2024.
I visited last year and saw families queue for hypercar simulators and “Officina Maranello,” an immersive workshop exhibit. The park blends racing history and brand emotion into a consumer experience, turning Ferrari into entertainment and lifestyle.
Ferrari’s Role in the Car Industry
Ferrari leads in both performance and luxury strategy. It consistently focuses on limited-volume, high-margin models with handcrafted details and hybrid tech, while spurning mass production.
Other automakers—Porsche, Mercedes-AMG—are adapting this playbook, but few carry Ferrari’s heritage. Ferrari’s unique blend of track-derived engineering, bespoke customization, and emotive branding shows how a legacy carmaker can thrive in modern markets.
Ferrari’s legacy is built on more than speed: it’s a symbol of artistry, leadership, and strategic vision.
From the boardroom, led by hands like Montezemolo and Piero Ferrari, to destinations like Ferrari World, and a tight production model that elevates demand, it remains an icon beyond the race track.
Ferrari’s Technology and Design
Ferrari has never just followed trends—it’s led with design, engineering, and identity. From powerful engines to bold styling choices, every model reflects decades of innovation and brand consistency. Here are the key elements that define Ferrari’s approach to technology and design:
- Engine and Car Design Changes: Ferrari has evolved significantly from its early V12 engines to today’s hybrid supercars. The 2025 296 GTS combines a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor, producing 819 hp and showcasing Ferrari’s commitment to performance and innovation. Meanwhile, the upcoming F80 is expected to deliver over 1,180 bhp, using Formula 1 hybrid technology. These changes reflect how Ferrari balances heritage with cutting-edge design, keeping both speed and sustainability in focus.
- Road Car Production: Ferrari limits its production each year to preserve exclusivity. Models like the Purosangue SUV and 296 GTS are offered in small numbers, often to loyal clients or collectors. This selective approach boosts demand and resale value. Many enthusiasts, myself included, see the waitlist as part of the Ferrari experience. It’s about quality over quantity—each car is built with care and precision.
- The Meaning of Ferrari’s Yellow Background: The yellow behind Ferrari’s prancing horse isn’t just a color—it’s a symbol of origin. Enzo Ferrari chose yellow to represent his hometown of Modena, Italy. It complements the red racing identity and adds a distinct character to the brand. That yellow shield has become one of the most recognizable emblems in the automotive world, linking Ferrari’s racing spirit to its Italian heritage.
Ferrari’s technology and design choices aren’t just aesthetic—they’re deeply connected to its history and mission. That consistency is what keeps the brand timeless, even as it innovates.
Challenges Ferrari Faced
Behind Ferrari’s global success are years of hard decisions, risks, and setbacks. From war damage to financial struggles, the company has proven its strength through resilience and long-term vision.
- Financial Problems and Recovery: Ferrari didn’t always lead the luxury market. Financial struggles in the past forced the brand to rethink its strategy. The 2016 spin-off from Fiat into Ferrari N.V. enabled greater independence and control. By Q1 2025, Ferrari reported €542 million in operating profit, thanks to strong demand for hybrid models and limited-edition builds. Recovery wasn’t just about survival—it was about learning to thrive.
- Impact of World War II: During World War II, Ferrari’s Maranello factory was bombed and repurposed for military gear. After the war, Enzo Ferrari rebuilt from the ground up. In 1947, he launched the 125 S—the brand’s first true sports car. That turning point showed Ferrari’s ability to adapt through crisis and start again with a bold vision. War nearly ended Ferrari before it began, but instead, it sparked a new beginning.
- Important Last-Minute Wins: Ferrari has a history of dramatic comebacks. At the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours, Ferrari’s 499P won in the final stages with a fuel-saving strategy that stunned the paddock. In Formula 1, weather-shifted races like the 2024 Monaco GP saw Ferrari drivers rise when it counted most. These wins are more than trophies—they’re reminders that Ferrari always finds a way to compete, no matter the odds.
Ferrari’s challenges have helped shape its legacy. The company didn’t just overcome problems—it turned them into momentum that continues to push the brand forward.
Ferrari Today and Tomorrow
Ferrari is a global icon of speed, precision, and luxury. Since the late 20th century, it has grown beyond racing, expanding into road cars, theme parks, and the stock market.
Under leaders like Luca di Montezemolo, Ferrari blended innovation with tradition, launching cars like the Enzo, LaFerrari, and the hybrid SF90. In 2024, it reported record production and revenue—while staying committed to low volume and exclusivity.
Even with a global presence, Ferrari remains closely tied to Italy. Its headquarters in Maranello still lead operations, and its Formula One team reflects Italian pride.
From fans in Monza to collectors in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari is more than a car brand—it’s a symbol of passion, identity, and heritage. With wins at races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and regular F1 podiums, it leads on and off the track.
At the heart of Ferrari is the Cavallino Rampante—the prancing horse. It was given to Enzo Ferrari in 1923 by the mother of WWI pilot Francesco Baracca and became a symbol of speed and luck. Enzo added a yellow background to honor his hometown, Modena.
That emblem still appears on every car, every track, and every dream Ferrari creates for the future.