STORY OF THE DAY: Ferrari’s New 312 P Finishes Second at Sebring

On 23 March 1969, Mario Andretti and Chris Amon finished second in the 12 Hours of Sebring with the number 25 Ferrari 312 P Spyder. The podium supplied a strong early result for Ferrari’s return to factory sports-prototype competition under the three-litre regulations.

The new 312 P faced the proven endurance strength of the Ford GT40 on Sebring’s punishing concrete. Andretti and Amon kept the Ferrari in contention over twelve hours of vibration, traffic and heavy braking. Finishing second gave the programme valuable development evidence as well as an important championship result.

The 312 P used a three-litre V12 related to Ferrari’s contemporary Formula One engine. Mounted behind the cockpit in a lightweight chassis and covered by low open bodywork, the high-revving power unit offered compact dimensions and strong aerodynamic efficiency within the prototype rules.

Andretti was an Italian-born American champion whose versatility extended from oval racing to Formula One and endurance events. Amon was Ferrari’s gifted New Zealand works driver and an important development specialist. Their combination of speed and technical judgment made them an ideal crew for the new prototype.