The 400 Superamerica Cabriolet is one of the more obscure of all Ferrari convertible road cars with only 11 cars in the years 1960 through 1963. Ten were completed by Pininfarina between April 1960 and December 1963. All were similar in overall design to the 250 Series II cabriolet also built by Pininfarina in the same period.
Of the ten Pininfarina, built cabriolets, the first six were on the short 2420 mm wheelbase framework, and both were flashier and more aggressive looking than their 250 GT Pininfarina Cabriolet contemporaries. Fitted with a low grille opening, a large hood scoop, a more distinct kick-up in the rear fender line, a pronounced body crease line, and taillights angled forward, the lines were subtle yet denoted the largest and most powerful Ferrari road car engine of the day.
The last four Pininfarina built cars were built on the long 2600 mm wheelbase framework with a slightly wider track of 1,395 mm at the front and 1,387 mm at the rear. The longer framework resulted in a less aggressive body stance but more cockpit room and a slightly improved ride on the open road. The increased cockpit size gave the car what Chrysler is now calling a “cab–forward” look. The long framework vehicles are more spacious and comfortable than the earlier short framework cars, but less aggressive in appearance.
The 400 SA cabriolet engine was identical to the engine fitted to the coupes, but with minor accessory modifications such as the optional fitting of Solex carburetors or 46 mm Webers. Designated as Tipo 163, the motor had a bore of 77 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. The traditional engine related model designation, based on single cylinder displacement was dropped and the model designation was simply based on the total displacement of the engine (just under 4 litres) and possibly on the very optimistic horsepower rating of the time. Rated as high as 400, the actual horsepower was probably in the 300 to 320 range. The framework was unique to the 400 SA series, designated Tipo 538. The 4–speed with overdrive transmission and the differential were also unique to the car and were also designated as Tipo 538.
After peaking in value at about $850,000 in 1989, the 400 SA Cabriolets collapsed in value through the 1990s. Several 400 SA cabriolets have changed hands in late 1996 and early 1997, after languishing for sale for several years, showing an improvement in the market for Ferrari coachbuilt cars. Today’s buyers are seeking a “Gentleman’s Express” for events such as the Colorado Grand or the California Mille.