Book review: Ferrari 156 Shark Nose by Ed McDonough

I can’t say that this year’s Ferrari SF-71H will likely be remembered as one of the more aesthetically pleasing Ferrari monocoques (unless of course, if Seb actually wins the 2018 championship). One of the most memorable and iconic Ferrari Grand Prix cars was the streamlined low profile Dino 156 – the 1961 world championship car driven by Phil Hill. Ed McDonough’s “Ferrari 156 Sharknose” is one book dedicated to this great GP car.

Published in 2001 this hardcover book documents the 1961 & 1962 seasons which the 156 competed across 5 chapters and 172 pages.

McDonough has researched the early background to the 1961 season and the new formula regulation changes. He also brings insight to the lesser known Ferrari pilots Baghetti & Ginther that shared the 156 race duties with Von Trips and Phil Hill. The main chapters focus on the the progress of the 156 through the Grand Prixs during the season and McDonough also reproduces choice interview quotes from the drivers themselves including Hill, Gurney, Brabham and Moss.

The collection of photographs in this book is excellent. There are plenty of detailed close up B&W shots – assembly, chassis detailing, suspension, 120 degree 1.5litre Dino engine, air intakes, von Trips and Hill on track and beautiful colour photos of the 156 during test sessions and in Monaco.

To add to the book’s appeal, Phil Hill himself pens the book’s foreword reflecting on his 1961 and 1962 seasons at the Scuderia.

There are few books that a dedicated to specific Ferrari race chassis, although a few excellent ones that come to mind like Peter Wright’s “Ferrari Formula 1“;  Ed McDonough’s Ferrari 156 Sharknose is also one of these.

Wow Factor/Money shot: Race photos at Spa ’61 and ’62.

Suitable for: Classic F1 fans