Wilfredo Ricart was a former design director for Alfa Romeo between 1936 and 45, a man who frequently clashed with Enzo Ferrari.
Wilfredo decided to join ENASA in 1946
ENASA was a Spanish vehicle manufacturer established in 1946 and acquired Hispano-Suiza and Fiat assets in Spain.
Its primary production focused on trucks, buses, and military vehicles under Pegaso and, briefly, Sava brands.
However, Wilfredo had ambitions to build the ultimate sports car and hired Ettore Pagani and other key personnel.
The result was the Pegaso Z-102 built in Coupé and Cabriolet from 1951 to 1958.
The engine was an advanced 2.8L DOHC V8 engine designed by Ricart, which was very fast, achieving a top speed of 151 mph.
Making it the fastest car in the world at the time of production.
It was equipped with an unusual gear shift pattern, making the Z-102 challenging to drive.
Wilfredo enlisted the Spanish dictator Franco’s support to build a sports car specifically to rival Ferrari.
Ferrari’s autobiography made it clear that Wilfredo and Enzo had differing philosophies.
Wilfredo unveiled the Pegaso Z-102 with a Perspex body at the 1951 Paris Motor Show.
The motor car received enthusiastic responses, much to Enzo’s chagrin.
The Pegaso name was derived from the mythical flying horse.
The design had to be redrawn without wings to avoid legal issues with oil giant Mobil.
Only 86 units were produced, which makes it a rare and valuable classic today.
In Enzo’s autobiography, it is recorded that iL Commendatore mocked Wilfredo’s ambition and efforts.
There is a belief that Pegaso could have succeeded with less ambition and that the La Sagrera factory could have rivalled Maranello.
Wilfredo was known for a focused yet intolerant attitude, leading to his ultimate downfall in 1956.
