Happy Birthday Enzo Ferrari!

This Sunday just gone would have seen the 120th birthday of one of the most influential men in automotive history ... 

Enzo Anselmo Ferrari, son of Alfredo and Adalgisa, was born in Modena on the 18th of February, 1898. As a child, he showed an unbridled passion for cars (his father, after all, had a workshop ... ), and as an adult he went on to become not only a great car manufacturer, but one of the world's greatest representatives of Italian spirit. He was also one of the most influential personalities of the 20th century.

To celebrate his 120th birthday, a photographic exhibition has been organised at Enzo's birthplace, within the complex that now houses the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena. It includes images taken throughout his life: from childhood to adulthood, from his career as a driver, to that of a manager and manufacturer, alongside unforgettable motor racing champions such as Nuvolari, Castellotti, and Villeneuve.

The museum also houses the former workshop of Enzo Ferrari's father, which has been meticulously restored and now contains the Museum of Ferrari Engines, where visitors can see the Prancing Horse's most experimental power units as well as the perfect engines that equip the track and race cars that have given such satisfaction to both Ferrari and its fans.

"It seems incredible to think that Enzo Ferrari was born in the 19th century," says Chairman and CEO Sergio Marchionne. "His lesson is more relevant than ever and his modernity unquestionable. He was a man with extraordinary vision and ability to manage people and resources, as well as a strong entrepreneurial spirit and exceptional courage. One wonders what he could have achieved if he had had access to today's technical resources and knowledge. The mark that he left on the world remains a source of pride for all of us at Ferrari, and for the whole of Italy."

We have a variety of books on all things Ferrari, available on our website, and if you fancy finding out more motoring history tidbits, This Day in Automotive History is the book for you!