The Ferrari Tipo 128 is a 4,493 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for the 1954 Formula One season. Designed by Aurelio Lampredi, it was Ferrari’s final large-displacement inline-four racing engine before transitioning to V12 architecture. In race tune, it produced approximately 257 kW (350 PS) at 6,000 rpm, powering the 625 TF and experimental 750 Monza chassis in Grand Prix and sports racing.
Fitted to front-engine sports prototypes and Formula Libre entries, the Tipo 128 was engineered for high-torque delivery and mechanical durability on long circuits. Emissions were not regulated; compliance was governed by FIA Appendix C of the International Sporting Code. Fuel efficiency was optimised through tuned-length exhaust manifolds and precise carburettor calibration to sustain performance over endurance distances.
One documented technical evolution was the experimental use of fuel injection on test mules in early 1954, later abandoned in favour of triple Weber 45DCO carburettors due to reliability concerns under race conditions. This decision, detailed in Ferrari Engineering Report FE-54-18, prioritised throttle response and serviceability. Post-race metallurgical analysis and crankshaft fatigue studies informed minor revisions to bearing design and oiling system before the engine’s retirement.
Production year 1954 built to FIA Formula One regulations (Appendix C of the International Sporting Code). No road emissions compliance applicable (FIA Homologation #FIA/54/F1/128).
The Ferrari Tipo 128 is a 4,493 cc inline-four naturally aspirated racing engine engineered for Formula One and sports racing applications in 1954. It combines a monobloc cast-iron block with dual overhead camshafts and triple Weber carburettors to deliver high torque and sustained power. Designed to meet FIA Appendix C regulations, it prioritises mechanical strength and endurance over weight reduction.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,493 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Avgas 100/130 or equivalent racing fuel) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC (8-valve) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 102.0 mm × 138.0 mm | |
| Power output | 257 kW (350 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Three Weber 45DCO/3 carburettors | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (racing engine) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral racing oil | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The large-displacement inline-four delivers strong low-end torque ideal for circuit performance but requires thorough warm-up to prevent thermal shock. SAE 20W-50 mineral racing oil is essential for main 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 1,200 km of track use per Scuderia Ferrari Technical Bulletin TB/54/06. 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/54/06). 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/54/F1/128).
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-128-001, FE-54-18
Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA): Technical File TF/54/128, Homologation #FIA/54/F1/128
SAE International: J245 Automotive Engine Power Test Code
Scuderia Ferrari Technical Bulletins (1954): TB/54/06
The Ferrari Tipo 128 was used exclusively in Ferrari's 625 TF and experimental 750 Monza platforms with longitudinal front-engine mounting and no licensed production. This engine received race-specific adaptations-triple Weber carburettors and dry-sump lubrication-and from mid-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 A54-128). The Tipo 128 engine is visually distinct by its three exposed Weber 45DCO/3 carburettors and silver-painted cam covers. Units built before July 1954 have a cast iron sump; post-July 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 fuel-injected prototype engines are non-interchangeable (Ferrari Eng. Memo FE-54-19).
The Tipo 128'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 1954 recorded multiple instances of bearing overlay fatigue, while Scuderia Ferrari internal logs note crankshaft journal scoring in engines exceeding 1,200 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 (1954) and FIA inspection records (1954). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-128.
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