The fight for the predominance in the car racing of 1957 became difficult for Ferrari, because Maserati became very strong in that time.
After modifying last seasons race car, the 290 MM, it became clear, that the new 290 S was not strong enough to beat the Maserati.

The new engine type 140 was born, a bigger bore and stroke with 76 x 69,5 mm had a 3783 ccm displacement and 360 hp as result.

Piero Taruffi won the last edition of the legendary Mille Miglia with a Ferrari 315 S. In Le Mans 1957, the same car became 5th overall.

But to be further on competitive, more modifications were indispensable. Already during the 1957 season, Ferrari launched the 335 S.