Legacy - Ricart Cars

Wifredo Ricart

1897-1974

Meet the Pioneering Genius

Discover the story of Wifredo Ricart, a visionary who revolutionized the automotive world, and the iconic creations that defined an era.

1897

1922-1930

1936-1945

1946-1957

1958-1963

1964-1974

1974

Birth of a Visionary

Wifredo Pelayo Ricart Medina is born on May 15th in Barcelona, Spain. From a young age, he shows an insatiable curiosity for mechanics and engineering, setting the course for his future career.

Ricart Spain Period

Together with his partner Felipe Pérez, Ricart establishes Ricart-Pérez, focusing on the design and manufacturing of high-performance engines and racing cars. Among his standout creations is the Ricart Super Sport, a pioneering vehicle that reflected his obsession with innovation and speed.

The Alfa Romeo Era

Ricart moves to Italy to join Alfa Romeo as Technical Director and later, Head of Special Projects, leading the development of engines and racing cars, as well as forging a slightly turbulent relationship with Enzo Ferrari. He contributes to iconic projects like the Alfa Romeo 512, a prototype racing car with a V12 mid-engine, and the Alfa Romeo Tipo 158 “Alfetta”, which would later become one of the most successful cars in Formula 1 history.

The Pegaso Legacy

Returning to Spain, Ricart rejects an offer to join Studebaker in the USA, is appointed Technical Director of ENASA and founds the Pegaso brand, with a mission to create luxury and high-performance cars. Under his leadership, the legendary Pegaso Z-102 and Pegaso Z-103 are born. These vehicles stood out for their innovative design and advanced engineering, featuring V8 engines and aluminum bodies. The Z-102 set speed records and is considered one of the most exclusive and beautiful cars of its era.

S.E.A.T. and Consulting Projects

After leaving ENASA, Ricart collaborates with the Spanish automotive company S.E.A.T., contributing to the development and modernization of automotive production in Spain. He also serves as a technical advisor to the Spanish Government and participates in various industrial engineering projects, leaving his mark on multiple sectors.

Innovator Until the End

Although stepping back from direct automobile production, Ricart remains active as a consultant in advanced engineering projects and dedicates time to teaching, sharing his knowledge with new generations of engineers.

Farewell to a Genius

Wifredo Pelayo Ricart Medina passes away on August 19th, 1974, in Barcelona at the age of 77. His legacy endures in the iconic cars he designed and his significant contributions to the development of the European automotive industry.

Engineering Legends

1922: Ricart Super Sport

This was one of the first racing cars designed by Wifredo Ricart. The model stood out for its lightweight construction and performance in local races, being a pioneer in the use of aluminum components.

With its 4-cylinder inline engine and single carburetor, the Ricart Super Sport was known for challenging much larger and more powerful vehicles, even defeating brands like Bugatti in dirt races in Catalonia, surprising spectators with its speed and agility.

1936-1940: Alfa Romeo 512 and Alfa Romeo Tipo 158 “Alfetta”

This prototype was ahead of its time, designed to compete in Formula 1. It featured a 3-liter V12 mid-engine, an uncommon setup back then, which enhanced its balance and maneuverability. The Alfa Romeo 512 never got to compete due to the outbreak of World War II, but its design served as inspiration for future generations of mid-engine race cars.

The “Alfetta,” with its 8-cylinder inline engine and 1.5-liter displacement, is considered one of the most successful racing cars of all time. It was lightweight and powerful, specifically designed for Grand Prix races. In fact, this car won the first race of the Formula 1 World Championship in 1950. It was a precursor to the modern single-seater racing car.

1951-1957: Pegaso Z-102 and Z-103

The Z-102 was the most advanced car of its time, featuring a lightweight tubular chassis, an aerodynamic aluminum body, and a V8 engine with up to 3.2 liters of displacement, with some versions being supercharged. It reached a top speed of 243 km/h, making it the fastest car in the world upon its release. It was nicknamed the “Spanish Ferrari” and caught the attention of notable figures such as King Farouk of Egypt and actor Tyrone Power. It became the star of high-society events and luxury automobile exhibitions across Europe and the United States.

Its successor, the Z-103, featured a 4.5-liter V8 engine, designed to offer more power and refinement than its predecessor. This model was an evolution of the Z-102, with engine improvements and a more elegant, sophisticated design. It represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance, with bespoke finishes and bodies crafted by the finest coachbuilders of the time, such as Touring and Saoutchik. Only 10 units were ever produced, making it an extremely rare collector’s item today. One of the models was acquired by American businessman J. Paul Getty, who was impressed by its exclusivity.

Pegaso: Speed, Innovation, and Prestige

Born from the visionary mind of Wifredo Ricart, Pegaso was more than a car—it was a statement. A bold challenge to the great automotive names of its time, blending cutting-edge engineering with unparalleled elegance. From stealing the show in Paris to setting world speed records, Pegaso left an undeniable mark on history. Decades later, its legacy still commands admiration, gracing the most prestigious concours and collections worldwide.

Pegaso Z-102

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