The supercharged Alfa Romeo continued to hold sway, but were seriously threatened by Ferrari with their 4.5 litre T375 machine in the hands of Gonzalez and Ascari. Although the cars from Maranello won three races, Alfa Romeo in the hands of Fangio, had just enough of an advantage to emerge as champions. However the classic T159 car was at the end of its development potential, and with insufficient funds for its replacement forthcoming from the Italian Government, the Milan manufacturer bowed out at the top.