STORY OF THE DAY: The Breadvan Challenges the Prototypes

On 6 August 1962, Carlo Abate drove the number 8 Breadvan to fourth place at Brand Hatch. Entered by Count Giovanni Volpi’s Scuderia Serenissima, the radically modified Ferrari competed as an independent creation rather than an orthodox factory model.

The car’s appearance was the day’s defining feature. Its long, low nose and abrupt Kamm tail contrasted sharply with the lines of the contemporary 250 GTO. Abate nevertheless converted the unconventional design into a strong result, finishing close behind purpose-built sports racers on the fast and undulating circuit.

Chassis 2819 GT began as a Ferrari 250 GT SWB before engineer Giotto Bizzarrini and coachbuilder Piero Drogo transformed it. It retained the front-mounted three-litre Colombo V12 and underlying tubular structure but received a lighter, lower body intended to reduce drag and produce a clean aerodynamic separation at the tail.

Carlo Mario Abate was an Italian driver especially successful in sports cars, GT competition and hill climbs. His relationship with Serenissima placed him at the center of the private team’s challenge to Ferrari. Fourth place at Brand Hatch became one of the Breadvan’s clearest demonstrations of competitive potential.