The Ferrari 553 Squalo is a 2,498 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for Formula 1 and Formula Libre competition in 1953–1954. Designed under the direction of Aurelio Lampredi, it featured a robust, oversquare architecture with dual overhead camshafts and hemispherical combustion chambers. It produced approximately 184 kW (250 PS) at 6,800 rpm, powering the 553 chassis to multiple podium finishes, including a victory at the 1953 German Grand Prix with Giuseppe Farina.
Mounted longitudinally in the 553 Squalo chassis, the engine was engineered for balanced weight distribution and predictable handling on high-speed circuits. Its monobloc cast-iron construction and dry-sump lubrication ensured durability under sustained racing conditions. Emissions were not a regulatory consideration; compliance was governed by FIA Appendix C of the International Sporting Code, with fuel efficiency optimised through precise carburettor tuning and exhaust scavenging.
One documented technical evolution was the transition from a single-stage Roots-type supercharger in early test mules to a naturally aspirated configuration for race trim, as supercharging was prohibited under 1953–1954 Formula One regulations. This change, detailed in internal Ferrari engineering reports (Ferrari Eng. Doc. FE-53-11), prioritised reliability and throttle response over peak power. Post-race metallurgical analysis and bearing wear studies formed the basis for iterative durability improvements.
Production years 1953–1954 were built to FIA Formula One regulations (Appendix C of the International Sporting Code). No road emissions compliance applicable (FIA Homologation #FIA/53/F1/553).
The Ferrari 553 Squalo is a 2,498 cc inline-four naturally aspirated racing engine engineered for Formula 1 applications (1953–1954). It combines dual overhead camshafts with triple Weber 45DCO carburettors to deliver broad torque and high-rpm power. Designed to meet FIA Appendix C regulations, it prioritises mechanical robustness and drivability over lightweight construction.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Avgas 100/130 or equivalent racing fuel) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC (8-valve) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Three Weber 45DCO/3 carburettors | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (racing engine) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral racing oil | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four delivers strong mid-range torque and linear power delivery essential for circuit performance but requires thorough warm-up to prevent thermal shock. SAE 20W-50 mineral racing oil is essential for bearing protection under high loads and sustained oil temperatures exceeding 110 °C. Carburettor synchronisation must be verified before each session to maintain combustion efficiency. The gear-driven timing system is highly durable but requires inspection for gear wear after every 1,000 km of track use per Scuderia Ferrari Technical Bulletin TB/53/05. Cooling system integrity is critical due to high heat flux in the front-mounted radiator layout.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral racing oil (Scuderia Ferrari TB/53/05). Synthetic oils not approved for period-correct builds.
Emissions: No emissions standards apply; engine constructed under FIA Appendix C regulations for Formula 1 (FIA Homologation #FIA/53/F1/553).
Power Ratings: Measured under FIA dyno protocols (ISO 1585 equivalent). Output varies with fuel octane (100–130 MON) and atmospheric conditions.
Ferrari Classiche Archive: Documents FC-553-001, FE-53-11
Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA): Technical File TF/53/553, Homologation #FIA/53/F1/553
SAE International: J245 Automotive Engine Power Test Code
Scuderia Ferrari Technical Bulletins (1953–1954): TB/53/05
The Ferrari 553 Squalo was used exclusively in Ferrari's 553 Formula 1 chassis with longitudinal front-engine mounting and no licensed production. This engine received race-specific adaptations-triple Weber carburettors and dry-sump lubrication-and from 1954 minor revisions to ignition timing and cooling ducting, creating limited interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the lower front crankcase web (Ferrari TIS A53-553). The 553 Squalo engine is visually distinct by its three exposed Weber 45DCO/3 carburettors and silver-painted cam covers. Pre-1954 units have a cast iron sump; post-1954 revisions feature improved oil scavenging. Critical differentiation from test engines: Only naturally aspirated units with FIA certification plate (attached near distributor) are eligible for historic racing. Parts compatibility requires verification against build sheets—components from supercharged prototype engines are non-interchangeable (Ferrari Eng. Memo FE-54-14).
The 553 Squalo's primary reliability risk is main bearing wear under sustained high-load operation, with documented failures in endurance events exceeding 500 km. FIA post-race inspections from 1953–1954 recorded multiple instances of bearing overlay fatigue, while Scuderia Ferrari internal logs note crankshaft journal scoring in engines exceeding 1,000 km between rebuilds. Aggressive throttle use and inadequate oil pressure regulation increase stress on critical components, making pre-race preparation and post-race inspection essential.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1953-1954) and FIA inspection records (1953-1954). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI 553SQUALO.
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