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Chassis:
Not all 8Vs were used for racing, with some falling the hands of Italy's coach builders, who have always had a particular interest in bodying the fastest chassis available. Featured is one of these, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Vignale in 1952. It incorporates many novel design elements like a wrap around wind screen, a transparent roof and two fins on the rear fender. Michelotti's keen eye for detail is best reflected by the grille, consisting of V-shaped louvers.
Because of its striking appearance this unique 8V quickly received the nick name 'Demon Rouge' or 'Red Devil'. Currently it's part of the Dutch Louwman Collection, the world's largest private collection open to the public. In a rare appearance outside the museum's walls, Demon Rouge is seen here at the 2004 Concours d'Elegance Paleis 't Loo, where it was awarded 'Best in Show'.
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