The story of Manny Del Arroz's Ferrari 166 MM is a remarkable twist on the classic "barn find" narrative, with a touch of desert mystique. Unlike the typical discovery of a forgotten gem in a dusty barn sold for a bargain, this Ferrari was anything but a steal. The 1950 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta, one of only 25 ever made, had been stashed away under a simple sheet in an Arizona backyard for nearly 50 years. Exposed to the harsh desert elements, this million-dollar classic remained hidden in plain sight, with its rarity and historical significance preserved despite decades of neglect.
(Photo credit: Christian Martin / Artcurial Auctions)
The car's journey began in Europe, where it was purchased by an American serviceman from a used car showroom in Lausanne, Switzerland. Shipped to his friend Reg Lee Litton in Arizona, the Ferrari was enjoyed in friendly races before it eventually broke down. Instead of repairing it, Litton covered the car with a simple heet and left it in his backyard, where it remained forgotten for nearly half a century. Despite its exposure to the desert sun and dust, this iconic vehicle, which had once roared across some of the world's most famous race tracks, including Le Mans, Silverstone, and Targa Florio, became a well-kept secret known only to a few.
When Litton passed away, his children realized the treasure sitting in their backyard and subtly hinted at its availability to the Ferrari community. This "under-the-sheet" find quickly garnered attention from collectors worldwide, but it was Manny Del Arroz who ultimately secured the car for over $1 million—a far cry from the typical barn find price. As Del Arroz delved deeper into the car's history, he discovered that it was more than just a rare Ferrari; it was a piece of automotive legend, having competed in prestigious races and been driven by some of the era's most renowned racers.
(Photo credit: Christian Martin / Artcurial Auctions)
After acquiring the car, Del Arroz took it to a Ferrari expert for a careful mechanical rebuild, leaving the worn body untouched to preserve its original patina. During this process, it was revealed that the car had once been raced by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio, adding another layer of prestige to its already illustrious history. This remarkable find is not just a story of a lost car rediscovered, but a testament to the enduring allure of automotive history, where even the most unassuming backyards can hold treasures worth millions.
If you are interested in exploring advertising with us, I encourage you to get in touch. Please feel free to contact me directly, and I will be more than happy to provide you with further information, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the process.
Nick Aylieff | Classic Motors For Sale | sales@classicmotorsforsale.c
