Even at a standstill, the Timossi-Ferrari Arno XI Racing Hydroplane gives the impression of incredible and aggressive speed. On water, the impression turns to reality courtesy of a monster 4,500cc V12 engine.

Developed in 1952 by wealthy Italian industrialist Achille Castoldi and Ferrari grand prix racers Alberto Ascari and Luigi Villoresi, the Arno XI develops a roaring 600hp. The engine was the same used by Ferrari’s Type 375 grand prix car. However, it was modified for record breaking marine duty. Twin superchargers were added to raise its horsepower from the original 385 to 600. Also, the engine ran on methanol to allow higher compression ratios for the superchargers.

Piloted by Castoldi, the Arno XI broke the 24 nautical miles record in the 800kg category when it averaged 102.13mph on Lake Iseo, Italy in 1953.

The Arno XI was eventually sold to Nando dell’Orto, who went on to race it successfully for more than a decade. The hydroplane was retired from its competitive racing career in 1960, with a European championship victory and various fastest laps. It was sold at auction in 2012 for €868,000.