October 11, 2002
by Pete Vack

Dick Merritt, known for his long time interest in Ferraris, has owned about every fabulous Ferrari one can think of. He also knows just about everything there is to know about the marque. After selling the last of his Ferraris (a 250GT Pininfarina Europa) he decided it was time for a change.

Finding a rare, rivet-bodied Bizzarrini in Dave Carte’s shop, he undertook a major restoration project to rebuild the 5 liter Chevy engined ex-race car. As restorations go, it took a long time.

In the meantime, Merritt got a lead on a Bizzarrini Strada, already restored, and this one had the full 7 Liter 454 engine crammed inside. Well, said Dick, pulling out his wallet, this would make a good mate to the 5 Liter Corsa, plus easier to drive on the road. Easy but fast. With all that torque, the Strada is a fantastic performer and stable at 170 mph. Top speed can only be guessed.

VelocePress’s first author took it to the prestigious Meadowbrook Concours last year and came home with the bacon. He trailered it with his other Chevy 454, a Suburban. He also took the time to take the photo below. Hard to believe both of these vehicles use the same engine.

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Books by Richard Merritt from VelocePress.com

Ferrari Brochures and Sales Literature -- A Source Book 1946-1967

Ferrari Operating, Maintenance & Service Handbooks (1948-1963)