Race and classic pictures

The only Ferrari-powered boat is up for grabs

Seeking something fast, furious and stylish to whizz you across Lake Como, from your palatial residence to an opulent dinner at the Villa d'Este?

We've got you covered.

You may not know it, but Ferrari once powered a hydroplane back in the 1950s. The craft was designed by Cantieri Timossi for racer Achille Castoldi, whose ambition it was to beat the World Speed Record on water in the 800kg class.

Castoldi approached Enzo Ferrari who accepted to supply a modified 4.5L V12 engine and a few of the Scuderia's engineers for the endeavor.

The 3-point hydroplane was built from hardwood and covered in mahogony veneer. Naturally, the upper body was painted in scarlet red and emblazoned with Ferrari's famous 'Cavallino Rampante'.

Castoldi's efforts yielded a record top speed of 150.40 mph, and that 1952 milestone still stands to this day!

Anyone interested in owning this one-off swimming horse - or 'Cavallino da nuota', head over to duPont Registry for more details.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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