6CM

Tipo 6CM - 1936-1939

Built to replace the 4CM, now struggling against competition from cars such as the ERA, the 6CM boasted an all-new in-line six-cylinder engine that was to prove itself very reliable indeed. The chassis was the fruit of lessons learned during the development of the 8VRI, of which only the best features were retained.

The independent suspension was retained on the front wheels, but there was a return to the solid axle for the rear as it was more reliable. The bodywork had very nicely designed aerodynamics and the results were soon speaking for themselves. Later developments made to the car involved the engine, chassis, bodywork and suspension, and ensured that the single-seater remained competitive until 1939.

Technical data

0-60 mph
Bodyworkaluminium-bodied single seater
Bore and stroke65x75 mm
Brakeshydraulic drum brakes on the wheels
Brakes front
Brakes rear
Chassisladder frame, with two longitudinal steel girders and cross members
Compression ratio6:1
Cooling systemwater-cooled, centrifugal pump
Displacements (unitary)
Dry weight1,433 lbs (650 kg)
Enginevertical in-line 6
Engine weight
First race1936 Circuito di Modena
Front Tyres
Front suspensiontorsion bars, friction dampers
Front track
Fuel & lubricant
Fuel feedRoots supercharger, a single Weber 55AS1 (55-50DCO) carburettor mounted ahead of the supercharger
Fuel tank26.40 Imp. gall. (120 litres)
Gear ratios
Height47.24 in. (1,200 mm)
Ignitionsingle-plug, Scintilla magneto
Kerb weight
Length146.45 in. (3,720 mm)
Length-Width-Height
Lubricationdual oil pumps (pressure and scavenge)
Maximum power155-175 bhp at 6,200-6,600 rpm
Maximum torque
Model6CM
One mile
Production dates1936-1939
Production start1936
Quarter mile
Rear Tyres
Rear suspensionleaf springs and friction dampers
Rear track
Reduction
Steeringworm gear
Timing geartwo valves per cylinder set in a 90°V, twin overhead camshafts
Top speed130-143 mph (210-230 km/h)
Total displacement1,493.2 cc
Transmission4-speed + reverse
Tyresfront 6.00x16-5.25x17; rear 6.00x16-5.25x17; Pirelli
Weight distribution
Wheelbase98.03 in. (2,490 mm)
Wheelswire wheels, 4.00x16 - 4.00x17
Width58.27 in. (1,480 mm)