Five Non-Ferrari Vehicles Powered by Ferrari Engines

For many car enthusiasts, owning a Ferrari represents a dream come true. However, getting one requires more than just wealth; there are specific rules that come with driving these high-performance vehicles. Ferrari’s approach to sales makes it feel like being a part of an exclusive club, where not everyone can gain entry. The brand is known for its powerful engines and remarkable performance, attributes that define elite sports cars. But what if you could experience a touch of Ferrari’s impressive performance without the complexities of ownership?

Interestingly, Ferrari engines are not exclusively found in Ferrari vehicles. Over the years, the company has shared its engine technology with other car manufacturers, whether through collaborations or business partnerships. Some of these cars are rare collector’s items, while others are surprisingly accessible compared to Ferrari’s main offerings.

One iconic example is the Fiat Dino. Fiat and Ferrari operate in different segments of the automotive world, with Fiat known for practical vehicles and Ferrari for luxurious sports cars. However, a collaboration took place in the late 1960s when Ferrari needed to produce 500 units of a 2.0-liter V6 engine to enter Formula 2 racing but lacked the production capability. Fiat stepped in to help mass-produce the engine, leading to the creation of the Fiat Dino. This stylish grand tourer was available as both a coupe and a more exclusive Spider model, featuring the same Ferrari-designed V6 that powered the famed Dino 246 GT. The Fiat Dino was produced from 1966 to 1972, with models evolving from 2.0 liters to a stronger 2.4 liters. Although it never wore a Ferrari badge, the Fiat Dino remains a notable collaboration between these two influential Italian brands.

Next up is the Lancia Stratos HF, born in the early 1970s when Lancia sought a replacement for its Fulvia rally car. Having recently gained production rights to the Ferrari V6 engine, Lancia seized the opportunity to incorporate this power into a new rally car design. Collaborating with studio Bertone resulted in the striking Stratos HF, designed specifically for rally racing. Initially hesitant, Ferrari eventually agreed to supply Lancia with the 2.4-liter V6 once its own production ended. The Stratos HF went on to win multiple World Rally Championship titles, proving its capabilities on the competitive racing circuit.

Another interesting entry on this list is the ASA 1000 GT. With its sleek design by Bertone, the ASA 1000 GT was originally conceptualized as a smaller, more affordable version of a Ferrari. This car used a refined 1.0-liter engine derived from Ferrari’s classic V12. Although it didn’t achieve commercial success, it still holds a place in the automotive world as a “what could have been” in Ferrari’s expansive history.

Following this is the Lancia Thema 8.32, an executive sedan housing a Ferrari-derived 3.0-liter V8. Designed for luxury rather than outright performance, the Thema 8.32 nonetheless managed respectable power and luxury features. Unfortunately, its appeal was overshadowed by the more glamorous Ferrari lineup, making it somewhat unnoticed despite its capabilities.

Finally, the Maserati MC12 stands out as a remarkable vehicle sharing its essence with the Ferrari Enzo. Featuring a Ferrari V12 engine, the MC12 was tailored for track performance rather than street use. It has a distinct design, flaunting variations in structure and aerodynamics. The MC12 remains a limited production model, making it highly sought after by collectors.

These cars show that Ferrari’s influence stretches far beyond its own brand, giving enthusiasts a chance to experience Ferrari performance in other unique vehicles.