Vittorio Stanguellini was the first to convert Fiat 1100 engines for racing, setting the standard for Italian 'elaborazione' or tuning.
The museum houses the Stanguellini Formula Junior, a car that won over 150 races internationally between 1958 and 1960.
The site is still owned and operated by the Stanguellini family, maintaining continuity with the original 1910 business.
The collection includes not only cars but original documentation, trophies, and mechanical prototypes reflecting the design process.
Stanguellini cars were among the first to utilize specialized lightweight aluminum bodywork for small-displacement racing engines.
Museo Stanguellini is a private automotive museum located in Modena, dedicated to the history of the Stanguellini brand, a pioneer in Italian racing and tuning. The collection is housed within the historic Stanguellini workshop, which remains an active facility for the maintenance and restoration of vintage cars. The exhibition focuses on the brand's success in the 1950s, particularly in the Formula Junior category where they dominated global competition. Visitors can view a wide range of Stanguellini-built racing cars, specialized engines, and period automotive components. The museum serves as a bridge between Modena's industrial motor heritage and the personal history of the Stanguellini family, who began as Fiat dealers before building their own vehicles. It functions as both a historical repository and a working garage, offering insight into the technical evolution of Italian sports cars. The site retains an authentic, industrial workshop aesthetic rather than a sterile museum gallery feel. Exhibits are curated to illustrate the technical craftsmanship and engineering ingenuity required to compete in post-war international motorsports.
The central exhibition floor, where the line-up of vintage Formula Junior cars provides a clean, unobstructed view of the racing heritage.
Contact the museum directly via their official website well in advance, as visits are typically managed by appointment or guided tours.
The museum is located within an active workshop, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for a light industrial environment.
Ask staff about the specific history of the current restoration projects, as the workshop floor often hosts cars being prepared for upcoming classic rallies.
Do not attempt to visit without a confirmed appointment, as the site is not a standard walk-in museum.
Visits are by appointment only; the facility may close for private events or specialized restoration work.
Do not touch the vehicles or mechanical components unless invited by staff; follow the guide's directions regarding restricted areas of the workshop.
