NEW VISUAL EVIDENCE AND OWNERSHIP INSIGHT

STARTING POINT
This Balilla Sport was already recognized as an unusual and politically charged competition car from the mid-1930s, uniquely connected with Scuderia Ferrari’s only known involvement with a Fiat Balilla in period racing. Its participation in the Targa Abruzzo 1935 and the Mille Miglia 1936 was historically documented, as was its distinctive use of methanol promoted under Fascist autarchic policies, with slogans displayed directly on the bodywork. The ownership chain after the war was also traceable, with license plates and successive transfers documented. However, beyond the two known races, the sporting record appeared closed, and the available imagery and supporting material remained limited.

RESEARCH
This case demonstrates how rigorous research can add meaningful value even when no additional competitions are discovered. The Automotive Masterpieces investigation confirmed that no further race participations beyond the Targa Abruzzo 1935 and the Mille Miglia 1936 have so far emerged, despite systematic searches across competitor lists and major events of the period. At the same time, the research produced substantial documentary enrichment with the identification of previously unknown visual material: an inédit photograph of the car at the Mille Miglia, as well as the location of professional archives holding original film footage rights. Two period videos were traced, and multiple high-definition still frames were selected, including one potentially allowing the reading of the license plate — a crucial element for further archival confirmation. In addition, the investigation located improved versions of known imagery, enabling permanent publication rights and stronger provenance support. Further related advertising material — such as an additional Pirelli advertisement mentioning the car — was discovered and extensive automobilia and press review was also undertaken, uncovering rare related items. A further important contribution was the historical definition of notable ownership. Seven significant owners were identified and contextualized through dedicated biographical tags, ranging from major cultural figures and architects to theatrical designers, wine-industry pioneers, and individuals still connected through family memory. This work adds depth to the car’s postwar social and cultural continuity beyond its brief racing career.