Rare Ferraris head to Pebble Beach Show

Two collections of eye-catching and rare Ferraris will be reunited in August at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

The Monterey event will play host to 10 1949 166 MM Touring Barchettas and the only four TR 59 race cars believed to be in existence.

The significance of the 166 MM Touring Barchetta--like that of many Ferraris--is twofold. The styling is credited with creating the image of the brand, and only 25 were built, with 10 making it to Pebble Beach.

These cars also were fast, claiming wins at the 1949 Mille Miglia, which is the reason for the MM in the name, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans that year.

The TR 59 also displayed prowess in competition, winning its 1959 debut at Sebring and then Le Mans in 1960. This car is even rarer than the 166 MM, with just five produced.

Pebble Beach concours
Ten Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchettas will be shown at Pebble Beach.

This car was fast, handsome and a piece of rolling innovation that chronicles advancements in Ferrari racing. It was lower and lighter--as well as more powerful than earlier Testa Rossa models, and implemented innovations such as disc brakes and coil valve springs. In its second season, the transmission and turning radius were modified and the engine converted to dry sump. A trunk and windshield wipers also were added.

The TR 59 has a tubular chassis and was designed by Pininfarina.

The Pebble Beach concours caps a series of car-themed and lifestyle events on the Monterey Peninsula. The show is Aug. 16.

By Greg Migliore