In 1955, former Emperor Bao Dai purchased the Ferrari 410 Superamerica, one of three exceptional Ferraris acquired by the exiled Vietnamese monarch during his time in France. The car’s history has since captivated automotive enthusiasts in his homeland.
News that this very Ferrari 410 Superamerica will be auctioned off on August 16-17 in Pebble Beach, USA, has sparked significant interest.
The Mysterious Ferrari 410 Superamerica, Once Owned by Emperor Bao Dai, Heads to Auction
As one of only 12 Ferrari Series I Superamerica Coupes crafted by Pininfarina, this particular example, chassis 0493 SA, was completed in 1956. It boasts a stunning light blue exterior with a contrasting ivory roof and natural leather upholstery—a truly regal combination fit for an emperor.
Emperor Bao Dai, the 13th and final ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty and the last emperor of Vietnam, was the original owner of this exquisite automobile.
Today, this Ferrari Series I Superamerica Coupe, chassis 0493 SA, remains in pristine condition. It still bears the royal emblem of Bao Dai and features the original Connolly leather upholstery, meticulously preserved and beautifully polished.
The 410 Superamerica was introduced by Ferrari in 1955, its powerful engine derived from the 410 S. With a displacement of 5.0 liters, it produced a maximum output of 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, thanks to three Weber 40DCF carburetors. The Superamerica III version, introduced in 1957, boasted three Weber 46DCF3 carburetors, elevating the power output to an impressive 355 horsepower.
Each 410 Superamerica featured a custom body, with a small number crafted by Boano and Ghia, but the majority were the work of the talented team at Pininfarina.
At its debut, the 410 Superamerica was one of the most expensive supercars on the market, priced at a staggering $16,800. To put this into perspective, a 410 Superamerica offered by importer Luigi Chinetti at the New York Auto Show cost twice as much as the Mercedes-Benz 300SL “Gullwing” presented by Max Hoffman. Only 35 of these remarkable vehicles were produced before the model’s end in 1959.