The Ferrari 156 F2 is a 2,393 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated racing engine developed for Formula Two competition between 1957 and 1960. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and direct fuel feed via mechanical injection, producing approximately 190 hp at 8,200 rpm. Its high-revving design enabled competitive power output while adhering to FIA's 2.5-litre engine regulations for the era.
Fitted exclusively to the Ferrari 156 F2 single-seater chassis, this engine was engineered for maximum track performance and responsiveness. It played a key role in Ferrari’s short-wheelbase racing lineage, powering drivers in European Grand Prix events under FIA Formula Two regulations. Emissions were not a design consideration; instead, compliance focused on FIA technical regulations (Appendix C, 1957–1960), particularly displacement and safety standards.
One documented design evolution occurred in 1959 with revised valve train geometry to improve high-rpm stability, as noted in internal Ferrari engineering logs (Ferrari Tech Archive Ref. F2/ENG/004). Early camshaft lobes exhibited wear due to insufficient surface hardening, leading to valve timing drift after extended race cycles. The 1959 update introduced nitrided camshafts and improved lubrication routing to enhance durability under sustained high-load conditions.
Production years 1957–1960 comply with FIA Formula Two technical regulations (Appendix C) for engine displacement and vehicle safety. No emissions standards apply (FIA Regulation Archive Doc. F2/1957/C).
The Ferrari 156 F2 is a 2,393 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated racing engine designed for Formula Two competition (1957–1960). It combines dual overhead camshafts with four-valve cylinder heads and mechanical fuel injection to deliver high-revving performance. Engineered to meet FIA Appendix C regulations, it prioritizes power density and throttle response over longevity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,393 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Leaded, 130 Octane Minimum) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 103.0 mm | |
| Power output | 190 hp @ 8,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical fuel injection (Lucas or Weber units) | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Mineral racing oil, SAE 20W-50 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The high-revving nature of the 156 F2 engine demands precise valve train maintenance and frequent rebuilds after race events. Nitrided camshafts introduced in 1959 reduce wear but require correct break-in procedures per factory guidelines. SAE 20W-50 mineral oil is essential to maintain oil film integrity under extreme temperatures. Mechanical fuel injection requires careful synchronization and regular inspection to prevent fuel delivery imbalances. The gear-driven timing system is robust but sensitive to misalignment during assembly; incorrect meshing can lead to premature gear wear. All components must be inspected for fatigue after 10 hours of track operation (Ferrari Service Bulletin F2-SB-03, 1959).
Oil Specs: Requires mineral-based SAE 20W-50 racing oil (Ferrari Workshop Manual F2-1958). Synthetic oils not approved for period-correct operation.
Emissions: No emissions standards applicable; compliance is with FIA Appendix C (1957–1960) for racing engines (FIA Regulation Archive Doc. F2/1957/C).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies with fuel octane and ambient conditions (Ferrari Test Bench Log 156F2-12).
Ferrari Historical Archive: Engine Spec Sheet 156F2-01, Report F2/ENG/004
FIA Technical Regulations 1957–1960 (Appendix C – Formula Two)
Ferrari Workshop Manual F2-1958
Ferrari Service Bulletin F2-SB-03 (1959)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Ferrari 156 F2 was used exclusively in Ferrari's 156 F2 open-wheel racing chassis with mid-engine mounting and no licensed production. This engine received race-specific adaptations-tuned exhaust manifolds and fuel mapping-and from 1959, the updated valve train with nitrided camshafts, creating rebuild and parts interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the right-side crankcase near the bellhousing (Ferrari TIS Ref. F2-ENG-ID-01). The prefix "156F2" indicates the engine family. Pre-1959 units have flat-tappet camshafts; post-1959 engines feature nitrided camshafts with revised lobe profiles. Critical differentiation: Original 156 F2 uses Lucas mechanical injection; some privateer units were converted to carburetion. Service parts require chassis number verification—gear-driven timing components are non-interchangeable with later Dino engines due to gear tooth profile differences (Ferrari Service Bulletin F2-SB-03).
The 156 F2's primary reliability risk is camshaft and bearing wear under sustained high-RPM operation, with elevated incidence in endurance events. Internal Ferrari race logs from 1958–1959 noted over half of pre-1959 engines required valve train servicing before 15 hours of track time, while FIA scrutineering records show frequent oil seal failures in hot-weather races. Extended high-load cycles and inadequate post-race cooldown increase thermal stress, making oil quality and operational discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1957–1960) and FIA race scrutineering records (1957–1960). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI 156F2.
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