Ferrari
1949 166 MM
2011 SOLD for $ 1.87M by RM Auctions
The Ferrari 166 MM made in 1949 with chassis number 0024M had been equipped with a barchetta body by Carrozzeria Touring.
This car had a career of adventures and reworks. Commissioned at the Paris Salon, it won its first race in Argentina but did not obtain permission to import.
It got 19 successive owners, including 9 in its first ten years. The fourth transformed it into a berlinetta. The seventh took away its engine which was later embedded in another car. The thirteenth, with the help of a dealer, managed to recover the original engine. The fourteenth took five years from 1986 to restore the car, including a new barchetta body in the style of the original Touring that had been removed in 1953.
This car still equipped with its original chassis and gearbox and re-united with its original engine 0022M was sold for $ 1.87M by RM Auctions on January 22, 2011, lot 285 and passed at RM Sotheby's on May 20, 2023, lot 123.
This car had a career of adventures and reworks. Commissioned at the Paris Salon, it won its first race in Argentina but did not obtain permission to import.
It got 19 successive owners, including 9 in its first ten years. The fourth transformed it into a berlinetta. The seventh took away its engine which was later embedded in another car. The thirteenth, with the help of a dealer, managed to recover the original engine. The fourteenth took five years from 1986 to restore the car, including a new barchetta body in the style of the original Touring that had been removed in 1953.
This car still equipped with its original chassis and gearbox and re-united with its original engine 0022M was sold for $ 1.87M by RM Auctions on January 22, 2011, lot 285 and passed at RM Sotheby's on May 20, 2023, lot 123.
1950 a highly original barchetta
2017 unsold
After the initial development of the brand in 1947, Ferrari optimized its range in 1948 with the 166, so designated to indicate the volume of a cylinder in cc for an overall 1995 cc displacement of the V-12 Colombo engine. The 166 begins to glean victories in the most prestigious competitions including the Mille Miglia which bring the suffix to the variant 166 MM.
Ferrari maintains a preferred cooperation with Carrozzeria Touring which offers its patented Superleggera technology much ahead of its time. Touring equips a significant proportion of the 166 either with an open two-seater body that will be named Barchetta or as a coupe frequently referred as Berlinetta.
The history of these first competition cars by Ferrari is rich in modifications of all kinds, to accompany the progress of the models and also unfortunately to compensate for accidents or breakdowns.
On March 11 in Amelia Island, RM Sotheby's sells a Ferrari 166 MM made in 1950 and bodied in barchetta by Touring, lot 278 estimated $ 8M. This car that entered the Mille Miglia in 1951 and 1953 remains in a sensational state of authenticity including its original barchetta body. The V-12 engine and the gearbox are in matching numbers including factory adjustments made in Maranello in 1951.
This rare Ferrari is a frequent participant in Pebble Beach's road races and concours d'elegance.
Ferrari maintains a preferred cooperation with Carrozzeria Touring which offers its patented Superleggera technology much ahead of its time. Touring equips a significant proportion of the 166 either with an open two-seater body that will be named Barchetta or as a coupe frequently referred as Berlinetta.
The history of these first competition cars by Ferrari is rich in modifications of all kinds, to accompany the progress of the models and also unfortunately to compensate for accidents or breakdowns.
On March 11 in Amelia Island, RM Sotheby's sells a Ferrari 166 MM made in 1950 and bodied in barchetta by Touring, lot 278 estimated $ 8M. This car that entered the Mille Miglia in 1951 and 1953 remains in a sensational state of authenticity including its original barchetta body. The V-12 engine and the gearbox are in matching numbers including factory adjustments made in Maranello in 1951.
This rare Ferrari is a frequent participant in Pebble Beach's road races and concours d'elegance.
1951 A Clothier on the Hill
2014 SOLD 3.2 M$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Everything starts well for Ferrari. Since the creation of the brand in 1947, three ranges of cars are developed in parallel : road sports, competition and the new Formula 1 whose first regulations have been defined in 1946.
In 1951, the new chassis 212 is ambitious. It includes the Inter variant previously used for the already prestigious model 166, and a new Export variant, a wording that prefigures the universal aims of the brand in the following years with the famous America, Mondial, Europa and later Superamerica and California.
As the prewar brands had done, the Ferrari cars are equipped with various bodies made by the best workshops.Considering altogether chassis and coachwork, each model is built in very small quantities and some cars are even unique. Carrozzeria Touring specializing in super-light (superleggera) construction is one of the leading bodybuilders for Ferrari cars at that time.
Thus, four Ferrari 212 Export were equipped by Touring as Berlinettas, the closed body for road competition. One of them was sold to the tailor of the personalities, Caraceni, who used it immediately in the Stella Alpina hillclimb racing where it obtained a good result.
On the following year, targeting the Mille Miglia, Caraceni chooses a 212/225 Export bodied by Vignale and sells his Touring to an aristocrat who prefers in his turn a 340 America in 1954. These movements are indicative of the high efficiency of the development of new models by Ferrari at that time.
The Ferrari Touring ex Caraceni had been somewhat forgotten, being cared since 1969 by only one owner who rarely used it. It has undergone a detailed and costly cleaning which left it in its original configuration and makes it now one of the most authentic early Ferrari cars.
It is estimated $ 3M, for sale by Bonhams in Scottsdale on January 16. Here is the link to the catalog.
POST SALE COMMENT
This early Ferrari still in its original configuration was sold for $ 3.2M including premium.
Everything starts well for Ferrari. Since the creation of the brand in 1947, three ranges of cars are developed in parallel : road sports, competition and the new Formula 1 whose first regulations have been defined in 1946.
In 1951, the new chassis 212 is ambitious. It includes the Inter variant previously used for the already prestigious model 166, and a new Export variant, a wording that prefigures the universal aims of the brand in the following years with the famous America, Mondial, Europa and later Superamerica and California.
As the prewar brands had done, the Ferrari cars are equipped with various bodies made by the best workshops.Considering altogether chassis and coachwork, each model is built in very small quantities and some cars are even unique. Carrozzeria Touring specializing in super-light (superleggera) construction is one of the leading bodybuilders for Ferrari cars at that time.
Thus, four Ferrari 212 Export were equipped by Touring as Berlinettas, the closed body for road competition. One of them was sold to the tailor of the personalities, Caraceni, who used it immediately in the Stella Alpina hillclimb racing where it obtained a good result.
On the following year, targeting the Mille Miglia, Caraceni chooses a 212/225 Export bodied by Vignale and sells his Touring to an aristocrat who prefers in his turn a 340 America in 1954. These movements are indicative of the high efficiency of the development of new models by Ferrari at that time.
The Ferrari Touring ex Caraceni had been somewhat forgotten, being cared since 1969 by only one owner who rarely used it. It has undergone a detailed and costly cleaning which left it in its original configuration and makes it now one of the most authentic early Ferrari cars.
It is estimated $ 3M, for sale by Bonhams in Scottsdale on January 16. Here is the link to the catalog.
POST SALE COMMENT
This early Ferrari still in its original configuration was sold for $ 3.2M including premium.
1953 Ferrari 340 MM Spider
2022 unsold
In 1953 Ferrari built 10 cars on the 340 MM chassis with an updated Lampredi 4.1 litre V-12 engine, targeting the endurance racing in the FIA’s new Sports Car Manufacturers’ Championship. The success of that 4.1 litre led to the development of the 4.5 and 4.9 engines of the Ferrari models 375 and 410.
The last 340 MM was fitted with a barchetta inspired spider coachwork by Vignale and used for the Italian honeymoon of its first owner. Its racing achievements in the USA include wins at 1954 Pebble Beach, Palm Springs and Seattle. It was later successfully entered at several Mille Miglia Storica in the 1980s and Colorado Grand in the 1990s.
Fitted with an earlier engine but accompanied by its unrestored matching numbers engine, it was sold for $ 4.7M by Gooding on August 18, 2012, lot 50. It is estimated € 6M for sale on May 14, 2022 by RM Sotheby's, lot 178. Please watch the video shared by RM.
A near identical car had won the 1953 Mille Miglia. Only four 340 MM Vignale Spiders are remaining.
The last 340 MM was fitted with a barchetta inspired spider coachwork by Vignale and used for the Italian honeymoon of its first owner. Its racing achievements in the USA include wins at 1954 Pebble Beach, Palm Springs and Seattle. It was later successfully entered at several Mille Miglia Storica in the 1980s and Colorado Grand in the 1990s.
Fitted with an earlier engine but accompanied by its unrestored matching numbers engine, it was sold for $ 4.7M by Gooding on August 18, 2012, lot 50. It is estimated € 6M for sale on May 14, 2022 by RM Sotheby's, lot 178. Please watch the video shared by RM.
A near identical car had won the 1953 Mille Miglia. Only four 340 MM Vignale Spiders are remaining.
1954 A Mondial at Santa Barbara
2019 unsold
In 1954 the Ferrari 500 Mondial is a spectacular novelty. Alongside the 750 and 860 larger-engined models, it is also a technical innovation, with its four-cylinder in line replacing the traditional V-12 of the brand.
The first series of the 500 Mondial includes 11 or 12 spiders bodied by Pinin Farina for the trade. One of them is sold new to Porfirio Rubirosa, playboy famous in his time, passionate of polo and of car racing, diplomat of the Dominican Republic in the service of Trujillo.
Rubirosa used only once his Mondial, at Santa Barbara in September 1954. He finished this race very honorably but mostly attracted the attention of the press by parading with the highly visible Zsa Zsa Gabor.
The playboy does not keep his women and cars for long. Just after Santa Barbara, he sells the Mondial to John Von Neumann, Ferrari's future dealer for Hollywood and South California. For two years Von Neumann enters it in local competitions, driven by himself or entrusted to friends.
In Santa Barbara in 1955, the same Mondial draws the attention of the press again. James Dean admires it so much that he absolutely wants to be photographed behind its wheel. The actor will however remain loyal to Porsche.
In 2014 Ferrari Classiche announced to have completed the restoration of the Mondial in a release illustrated with a short video. The car had been kept in a highly authentic condition, with the exception of the engine that had been blown in 1956 by the future champion Phil Hill. Ferrari has built and installed an engine that complies with the original specification. The still original Pinin Farina body was repainted in its 1954 Santa Barbara design.
Now certified at the highest level by Ferrari Classiche, the Mondial is estimated $ 5M for sale by Bonhams in Scottsdale on January 17, lot 44. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
The first series of the 500 Mondial includes 11 or 12 spiders bodied by Pinin Farina for the trade. One of them is sold new to Porfirio Rubirosa, playboy famous in his time, passionate of polo and of car racing, diplomat of the Dominican Republic in the service of Trujillo.
Rubirosa used only once his Mondial, at Santa Barbara in September 1954. He finished this race very honorably but mostly attracted the attention of the press by parading with the highly visible Zsa Zsa Gabor.
The playboy does not keep his women and cars for long. Just after Santa Barbara, he sells the Mondial to John Von Neumann, Ferrari's future dealer for Hollywood and South California. For two years Von Neumann enters it in local competitions, driven by himself or entrusted to friends.
In Santa Barbara in 1955, the same Mondial draws the attention of the press again. James Dean admires it so much that he absolutely wants to be photographed behind its wheel. The actor will however remain loyal to Porsche.
In 2014 Ferrari Classiche announced to have completed the restoration of the Mondial in a release illustrated with a short video. The car had been kept in a highly authentic condition, with the exception of the engine that had been blown in 1956 by the future champion Phil Hill. Ferrari has built and installed an engine that complies with the original specification. The still original Pinin Farina body was repainted in its 1954 Santa Barbara design.
Now certified at the highest level by Ferrari Classiche, the Mondial is estimated $ 5M for sale by Bonhams in Scottsdale on January 17, lot 44. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1955 The Ferrari Monza of Jim Hall
2016 SOLD for $ 5.2M including premium
The Ferrari 750 using a 3 liter 4-cylinder engine is released in 1954. It formally receives the name 750 Monza after an early win at Monza with Hawthorn and Maglioli.
Despite this good start the glory of the 750 is short lived. Too heavy, it is dominated by the Mercedes-Benz cars. Moreover, the new rules favor the range of the Ferrari 250. By a sad coincidence, Ascari is killed at Monza when driving a 750 Monza during an unprepared trial in May 1955.
Ferrari makes 35 units of the 750 Monza. One of them built in 1955 and bodied by Scaglietti is estimated $ 4M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 19, lot 127.
Its debut had been brilliant with three future legends of motorsport. Driven by Phil Hill and Carroll Shelby in its very first competition at the 12 Hours of Sebring in March 1955, it was announced as the winner but downgraded to second position after a dispute around a confusion in the finish of the race.
This Ferrari continued its career in the following year with its new owner Jim Hall aged 21. The car became resolutely obsolete and stopped racing in 1958 but Hall kept up to current day his enthusiasm for his 750. It is now offered from his collection where it had remained for 60 years.
The greatest glory of Jim Hall in motorsport is the creation of the Chaparral brand in 1962.
Despite this good start the glory of the 750 is short lived. Too heavy, it is dominated by the Mercedes-Benz cars. Moreover, the new rules favor the range of the Ferrari 250. By a sad coincidence, Ascari is killed at Monza when driving a 750 Monza during an unprepared trial in May 1955.
Ferrari makes 35 units of the 750 Monza. One of them built in 1955 and bodied by Scaglietti is estimated $ 4M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 19, lot 127.
Its debut had been brilliant with three future legends of motorsport. Driven by Phil Hill and Carroll Shelby in its very first competition at the 12 Hours of Sebring in March 1955, it was announced as the winner but downgraded to second position after a dispute around a confusion in the finish of the race.
This Ferrari continued its career in the following year with its new owner Jim Hall aged 21. The car became resolutely obsolete and stopped racing in 1958 but Hall kept up to current day his enthusiasm for his 750. It is now offered from his collection where it had remained for 60 years.
The greatest glory of Jim Hall in motorsport is the creation of the Chaparral brand in 1962.
1955 the four cylinder ferrari
2018 sold for $ 5m including premium
In 1950 and 1951 the Formula 1 World Championship (Campionato Mondiale) is completely dominated by Alfa Romeo. Their only major rival is Ferrari, the first brand that used V-engines in this racing category.
After the 1951 season Alfa Romeo gives up competition. Helpless, the FIA decides to apply to Formula 1 the Formula 2 rules, including engine volumes below two liters in lighter cars.
To meet these new rules, Ferrari changes strategy. The power rise of the V12 is too slow for these small cars : Lampredi develops the engine Tipo 110 with four-cylinder 500 cc in line. Alberto Ascari dominates the 1952 and 1953 seasons with the new Ferrari Tipo 500.
This overwhelming success leads Ferrari to successively offer two small series of cars using this solution. They receive the denomination Mondial in an enthusiastic reference to Ascari's victories : the 500 Mondial Series I is made in 1954 in 21 units, followed in 1955 by the Series II in 8 units using the chassis of the 750 Monza and the engine Tipo 111 inspired by the Ferrari 553 F2.
Designed for competition, all these cars had a hectic early history. One of the Series II was traded back by Ferrari from a private customer in November 1955 for the Venezuelan Grand Prix in such a hurry that they left it painted in French blue.
After several seasons on three continents, this exhausted car seduced in 1960 a junior officer of the US Navy. He buys it on a bank loan and asks for a quote from Ferrari for its restoration. It is too expensive for this beginner : he learns to repair and maintain it by himself.
This young man never lost his passion for his rare Ferrari. It followed him throughout his career that ended thirty years ago with the rank of Rear Admiral. Having become the best connoisseur of this model, he spent eight years from 2000 to manage a complete restoration that led his car on the path of the most prestigious concours d'elegance.
This Ferrari which has been meticulously cared and used by a single owner for 58 years is estimated $ 5.5M for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 24, lot 22. Here is the link to the press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house and the 2015 video shared by Petrolicious. Both include an interview with the Admiral.
After the 1951 season Alfa Romeo gives up competition. Helpless, the FIA decides to apply to Formula 1 the Formula 2 rules, including engine volumes below two liters in lighter cars.
To meet these new rules, Ferrari changes strategy. The power rise of the V12 is too slow for these small cars : Lampredi develops the engine Tipo 110 with four-cylinder 500 cc in line. Alberto Ascari dominates the 1952 and 1953 seasons with the new Ferrari Tipo 500.
This overwhelming success leads Ferrari to successively offer two small series of cars using this solution. They receive the denomination Mondial in an enthusiastic reference to Ascari's victories : the 500 Mondial Series I is made in 1954 in 21 units, followed in 1955 by the Series II in 8 units using the chassis of the 750 Monza and the engine Tipo 111 inspired by the Ferrari 553 F2.
Designed for competition, all these cars had a hectic early history. One of the Series II was traded back by Ferrari from a private customer in November 1955 for the Venezuelan Grand Prix in such a hurry that they left it painted in French blue.
After several seasons on three continents, this exhausted car seduced in 1960 a junior officer of the US Navy. He buys it on a bank loan and asks for a quote from Ferrari for its restoration. It is too expensive for this beginner : he learns to repair and maintain it by himself.
This young man never lost his passion for his rare Ferrari. It followed him throughout his career that ended thirty years ago with the rank of Rear Admiral. Having become the best connoisseur of this model, he spent eight years from 2000 to manage a complete restoration that led his car on the path of the most prestigious concours d'elegance.
This Ferrari which has been meticulously cared and used by a single owner for 58 years is estimated $ 5.5M for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 24, lot 22. Here is the link to the press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house and the 2015 video shared by Petrolicious. Both include an interview with the Admiral.
1955 Two Ferraris climb to Winter Sports
2008 SOLD 3.9 MCHF including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The traditional sale of cars organized by Bonhams on December 20 in Gstaad opens the season of winter sports for the art market. Coming from the same estate, the top lots are two Ferraris made in the 1950s for endurance competitions.
Lot 205 is a Ferrari 121LM Spyder of 1955. This six-cylinder model was regarded as the fastest car that year. The copy presented for sale had been raced by the American driver Phil Hill. Coachworked by Spyder Corsa, this car is nicely proportionate and, of course, a great red Ferrari. It expects 4.7 MCHF.
Lot 206 is a Ferrari 212 Export Spyder of 1951. It participated in the Mille Miglia and raced in Monaco. Coachworked by Carrozzeria Motto, it is estimated 2.8 MCHF. In simpler shape than its colleague above, it is dressed in metallic gray.
POST SALE COMMENTS
1
The two Ferraris went down unsold from their winter sports.
2
The Ferrari of Phil Hill was eventually sold. It was added after the first list of results, at 3.819 MCHF excluding charges and 3.895 MCHF including charges. This small difference confirms that it is an after-sale negotiation.
Lot 206 remained unsold.
The traditional sale of cars organized by Bonhams on December 20 in Gstaad opens the season of winter sports for the art market. Coming from the same estate, the top lots are two Ferraris made in the 1950s for endurance competitions.
Lot 205 is a Ferrari 121LM Spyder of 1955. This six-cylinder model was regarded as the fastest car that year. The copy presented for sale had been raced by the American driver Phil Hill. Coachworked by Spyder Corsa, this car is nicely proportionate and, of course, a great red Ferrari. It expects 4.7 MCHF.
Lot 206 is a Ferrari 212 Export Spyder of 1951. It participated in the Mille Miglia and raced in Monaco. Coachworked by Carrozzeria Motto, it is estimated 2.8 MCHF. In simpler shape than its colleague above, it is dressed in metallic gray.
POST SALE COMMENTS
1
The two Ferraris went down unsold from their winter sports.
2
The Ferrari of Phil Hill was eventually sold. It was added after the first list of results, at 3.819 MCHF excluding charges and 3.895 MCHF including charges. This small difference confirms that it is an after-sale negotiation.
Lot 206 remained unsold.
1955 An Early Model of Ferrari GT
2014 SOLD 2.53 M$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
In 1953, the performances of Ferrari in competition encourage the brand to expand its range to capture new market sectors. The new models are produced in small quantities : 12 cars for the sport model America 375 with a top speed of 250 Km/h, 20 cars for the model of tourism Europa 250 targeting 200 Km/h.
Development goes on. In the following year, the generalization of the Colombo engine enables the sustainable success of the 250 GT range, also offering an optimization of the chassis. Superseding the 250 Europa, the 250 Europa GT is produced in 44 units.
When they look for a second hand car, customers like to buy it in an almost new condition. In 1966, an Italian is lucky to find a 250 Europa GT from 1955 in its original state, very little used despite several changes of owners. Very proud of his car, he also used it scarcely and never exhibited it.
This car in an impeccable condition of authenticity accumulated only 14000 Km in nearly 60 years, becoming one of the most desirable units among the first models of Ferrari GT.
It is for sale by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, lot 62 in the catalog. Close of a true time capsule, its price is difficult to estimate.
POST SALE COMMENT
This early Ferrari 250 GT was sold for $ 2.3M before fees, 2.53M including premium.
In 1953, the performances of Ferrari in competition encourage the brand to expand its range to capture new market sectors. The new models are produced in small quantities : 12 cars for the sport model America 375 with a top speed of 250 Km/h, 20 cars for the model of tourism Europa 250 targeting 200 Km/h.
Development goes on. In the following year, the generalization of the Colombo engine enables the sustainable success of the 250 GT range, also offering an optimization of the chassis. Superseding the 250 Europa, the 250 Europa GT is produced in 44 units.
When they look for a second hand car, customers like to buy it in an almost new condition. In 1966, an Italian is lucky to find a 250 Europa GT from 1955 in its original state, very little used despite several changes of owners. Very proud of his car, he also used it scarcely and never exhibited it.
This car in an impeccable condition of authenticity accumulated only 14000 Km in nearly 60 years, becoming one of the most desirable units among the first models of Ferrari GT.
It is for sale by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, lot 62 in the catalog. Close of a true time capsule, its price is difficult to estimate.
POST SALE COMMENT
This early Ferrari 250 GT was sold for $ 2.3M before fees, 2.53M including premium.
1955 Ferrari on the Beach
2011 SOLD 2.53 M$ including premium
Although short lived, the model 750 Monza of Ferrari is an important step towards the supremacy of the Italian company on the competition circuits.
An example of 1955 with a bodywork by Scaglietti anticipates the glorious shapes of the Testa Rossa. It is illustrated in detail in the article shared by Sports Car Digest. Its Ferrari-red color, its original condition and a well made restoration are not its only assets. Its story is interesting and funny.
It had a nice sports career, mostly in California where it was delivered in April 1955. It won several local races and was driven by Phil Hill, among others.
In California, the motion picture industry is never far away. In the 1959 thriller movie On the Beach, the last survivors of humanity organize a car race (why not ...) while waiting to be reached by the radioactive cloud that killed all their congeners. Our Ferrari, driven by Fred Astaire, leads that race.
It is estimated $ 2.5 million, for sale by RM Auctions in Monterey on August 20.
An example of 1955 with a bodywork by Scaglietti anticipates the glorious shapes of the Testa Rossa. It is illustrated in detail in the article shared by Sports Car Digest. Its Ferrari-red color, its original condition and a well made restoration are not its only assets. Its story is interesting and funny.
It had a nice sports career, mostly in California where it was delivered in April 1955. It won several local races and was driven by Phil Hill, among others.
In California, the motion picture industry is never far away. In the 1959 thriller movie On the Beach, the last survivors of humanity organize a car race (why not ...) while waiting to be reached by the radioactive cloud that killed all their congeners. Our Ferrari, driven by Fred Astaire, leads that race.
It is estimated $ 2.5 million, for sale by RM Auctions in Monterey on August 20.
1956 super speed in america
2018 unsold
In an early phase the sports cars created by Ferrari are mostly recycled designs from racing models. The wealthy Americans are fond of luxurious and powerful cars and Ferrari creates for their use from 1951 to 1953 the small series 340 America, 342 America and 375 America.
For competition the 375 Plus with its V-12 engine of 4.9 liters should have been a 410 according to the usual nomenclature of the brand identifying the metric volume per cylinder. In 1955 the 410 range is formally started with the 410 S for track and the prototype chassis of a road going 410 for which the Lampredi engine of the 375 Plus has been softened.
For such a powerful car the America qualifier is no longer enough to grab the attention of the customers. The road going 410 is the first Superamerica, the fastest commercial car of its time. The production of this high-end model is limited to about one chassis per month. Pinin Farina is the preferred coach builder without having an exclusivity.
The release in the same year 1956 of the 410 Superamerica coupe and of the 250 GT berlinetta significantly improves Ferrari's high-end commercial offer.
On March 9 at Amelia Island, Gooding sells the last of the twelve 410 Superamerica Series I, bodied by Pinin Farina. Very sparingly used, it has only 12,000 km on the clock and has retained its original body, engine, gearbox and differential. It is estimated $ 5M, lot 36. Here is the link to the press release.
The third and final small series of 410 Superamerica in 1958 and 1959 is the pinnacle of luxury for the closed-body Ferraris of the 1950s. Its competitor in open body is the 250 GT cabriolet Series I followed by its long awaited industrialization as Series II.
For competition the 375 Plus with its V-12 engine of 4.9 liters should have been a 410 according to the usual nomenclature of the brand identifying the metric volume per cylinder. In 1955 the 410 range is formally started with the 410 S for track and the prototype chassis of a road going 410 for which the Lampredi engine of the 375 Plus has been softened.
For such a powerful car the America qualifier is no longer enough to grab the attention of the customers. The road going 410 is the first Superamerica, the fastest commercial car of its time. The production of this high-end model is limited to about one chassis per month. Pinin Farina is the preferred coach builder without having an exclusivity.
The release in the same year 1956 of the 410 Superamerica coupe and of the 250 GT berlinetta significantly improves Ferrari's high-end commercial offer.
On March 9 at Amelia Island, Gooding sells the last of the twelve 410 Superamerica Series I, bodied by Pinin Farina. Very sparingly used, it has only 12,000 km on the clock and has retained its original body, engine, gearbox and differential. It is estimated $ 5M, lot 36. Here is the link to the press release.
The third and final small series of 410 Superamerica in 1958 and 1959 is the pinnacle of luxury for the closed-body Ferraris of the 1950s. Its competitor in open body is the 250 GT cabriolet Series I followed by its long awaited industrialization as Series II.
1957 Ferrari California Spyder Prototype
2012 SOLD for $ 6.6M by Gooding
Concerned about competition, Enzo Ferrari was not interested in convertibles, but he could not ignore these sports cars that will be necessary to the profitability of his business. He includes in his catalog in 1957 the Ferrari 250 GT Pinin Farina Cabriolet which will bring a great commercial success.
In the same year, the improvement of the 250 GT chassis is primarily intended for competition berlinettas. Two dealers in the USA, Von Neumann in California and Chinetti in New York, manage to convince Ferrari to assemble a convertible on the new frame, for the wealthy American customers wishing to have a vehicle usable altogether for city and sport.
Von Neumann and Chinetti conclude that the new Ferraris do not respond to the evolution of the American market. The Cabriolet Pinin Farina targets a clientele of billionaires and should not be compared with a sports car. The berlinetta interposes its hardtop between its seaters and the Californian sun. It is even more unfortunate when considering that celebrities enjoy the convertibles for better agglutinating the paparazzi around the luxury and elegance of their privileged lives.
Enzo Ferrari is not convinced. In December 1957, however, he releases a prototype that meets the demands of his US partners. Scaglietti, the coachbuilder who was assembling the TdF, had used the same chassis model to build a cabriolet, without bringing other technical innovations. Nevertheless this car intended for an American use already includes the option of covered headlamps, prohibited in Italy.
The prototype is delivered in January 1958 to a customer in Florida via Chinetti. It was sold for $ 6.6M by Gooding on August 19, 2012. A swap of engines with a TdF made in 1980 was canceled in 2004.
Scaglietti will begin assembling a series in June 1958 with an average rate of two cars per month, without making any other prototype.
In the same year, the improvement of the 250 GT chassis is primarily intended for competition berlinettas. Two dealers in the USA, Von Neumann in California and Chinetti in New York, manage to convince Ferrari to assemble a convertible on the new frame, for the wealthy American customers wishing to have a vehicle usable altogether for city and sport.
Von Neumann and Chinetti conclude that the new Ferraris do not respond to the evolution of the American market. The Cabriolet Pinin Farina targets a clientele of billionaires and should not be compared with a sports car. The berlinetta interposes its hardtop between its seaters and the Californian sun. It is even more unfortunate when considering that celebrities enjoy the convertibles for better agglutinating the paparazzi around the luxury and elegance of their privileged lives.
Enzo Ferrari is not convinced. In December 1957, however, he releases a prototype that meets the demands of his US partners. Scaglietti, the coachbuilder who was assembling the TdF, had used the same chassis model to build a cabriolet, without bringing other technical innovations. Nevertheless this car intended for an American use already includes the option of covered headlamps, prohibited in Italy.
The prototype is delivered in January 1958 to a customer in Florida via Chinetti. It was sold for $ 6.6M by Gooding on August 19, 2012. A swap of engines with a TdF made in 1980 was canceled in 2004.
Scaglietti will begin assembling a series in June 1958 with an average rate of two cars per month, without making any other prototype.
1957 Good Start for Pininfarina
2012 SOLD 5 M€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
When Battista "Pinin" Farina began working with Ferrari in 1952, his company for car design and manufacture had already enjoyed success with other brands.
On May 12 in Monaco, RM Auctions sells a red Ferrari, estimated € 3.3 million, bodied by Pininfarina, which is a fine example of the earliest achievements due to this prestigious collaboration: a 375MM Spider made in 1953.
Aesthetically very successful with a highly flexible shape, this car was also very effective in competition. Delivered in Argentina, it had a very nice racing history from 1954 to 1956.
It was difficult to make a choice among the 22 Ferraris presented in this sale. We will therefore also follow one of the rarest types of Testa Rossa, a 625TRC of 1957, estimated € 3M.
I invite you to play the videos of these two lots shared by RM Auctions on YouTube : 375MM and 625TRC.
POST SALE COMMENT
The auction house announced on Twitter the excellent result of the 1957 625TRC Spider: € 4.5 million hammer price.
The 1953 375MM Spider is unsold.
When Battista "Pinin" Farina began working with Ferrari in 1952, his company for car design and manufacture had already enjoyed success with other brands.
On May 12 in Monaco, RM Auctions sells a red Ferrari, estimated € 3.3 million, bodied by Pininfarina, which is a fine example of the earliest achievements due to this prestigious collaboration: a 375MM Spider made in 1953.
Aesthetically very successful with a highly flexible shape, this car was also very effective in competition. Delivered in Argentina, it had a very nice racing history from 1954 to 1956.
It was difficult to make a choice among the 22 Ferraris presented in this sale. We will therefore also follow one of the rarest types of Testa Rossa, a 625TRC of 1957, estimated € 3M.
I invite you to play the videos of these two lots shared by RM Auctions on YouTube : 375MM and 625TRC.
POST SALE COMMENT
The auction house announced on Twitter the excellent result of the 1957 625TRC Spider: € 4.5 million hammer price.
The 1953 375MM Spider is unsold.
1957 The Art of preserving a Ferrari
2011 SOLD 3 M$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Ferrari took advantage of their impressive record in competition to offer a line of high-end driving cars, which were certainly in their time the most expensive models in the world. Having appreciated that nothing was too good for the richest Americans, the Italian company gave them the name of America and then Superamerica.
These precious pieces were worthy of the most loving care, but even after this observation the 410 Superamerica coupe introduced in the sales of Gooding in Pebble Beach on 20 and 21 August remains a fabulous specimen.
Built in 1957 by Ferrari and coachworked by Pininfarina, it is totalling 30 000 km only, has remained in the same family for over 40 years and has even retained its original black paint. Under these exceptional conditions, how can we estimate the price?
It is illustrated in second position on the article shared by Sports Car Digest.
Chance of the opportunities, it is presented in the same sale as the Testa Rossa prototype of the same year that hasalready been featured in this group. A comparison of performance shows that the road car deserves almost as much attention as the champion. The maximum speed was 270 km / h for the Testa Rossa, and 240 km / h for the Superamerica.
POST SALE COMMENT
Here is the price for a Ferrari from a good commercial model, in excellent condition: $ 3M including premium.
Ferrari took advantage of their impressive record in competition to offer a line of high-end driving cars, which were certainly in their time the most expensive models in the world. Having appreciated that nothing was too good for the richest Americans, the Italian company gave them the name of America and then Superamerica.
These precious pieces were worthy of the most loving care, but even after this observation the 410 Superamerica coupe introduced in the sales of Gooding in Pebble Beach on 20 and 21 August remains a fabulous specimen.
Built in 1957 by Ferrari and coachworked by Pininfarina, it is totalling 30 000 km only, has remained in the same family for over 40 years and has even retained its original black paint. Under these exceptional conditions, how can we estimate the price?
It is illustrated in second position on the article shared by Sports Car Digest.
Chance of the opportunities, it is presented in the same sale as the Testa Rossa prototype of the same year that hasalready been featured in this group. A comparison of performance shows that the road car deserves almost as much attention as the champion. The maximum speed was 270 km / h for the Testa Rossa, and 240 km / h for the Superamerica.
POST SALE COMMENT
Here is the price for a Ferrari from a good commercial model, in excellent condition: $ 3M including premium.
1957 Ferrari at the Belgian Court
2019 unsold
Ferrari was able to rely on his achievements in competition to retain an ultra-rich and ultra-worldly clientele of monarchs and presidents from whom he considered all the whims. His best clients were the Belgian royal family.
Unpopular for his attitude under German occupation, Leopold III had abdicated in 1951. Until 1960 he resides in the royal palace with his second wife Lilian, Princesse de Réthy. They like Ferrari cars specially designed for them, coached by Vignale and then by Pinin Farina.
The former king prefers the most powerful cabriolets. His 342 America delivered in 1953 and his 375 Plus delivered in 1955 are precursors of the 250 GT California Spider. The princess buys a 250 GT Europa coupe, delivered in 1955.
This relationship is extremely useful to Ferrari. When Pirelli announces in full 1955 racing season that he stops supplying tires to Ferrari, the princess finds the solution by convincing the Belgian company Englebert to ship immediately to Maranello the necessary hardware.
She orders shortly afterward a 250 GT Coupe Speciale. Bodied in 1957, this car is a one-off for which Pinin Farina realizes a patchwork of his developments in progress, such as the covered headlights that will soon equip the 250 GT TdF.
Ten years later the princess acquires a 330 GTC. Sponsoring the American cardiac surgery, she presents the 250 GT to a deserving doctor. This 250 Coupe Speciale is estimated $ 11M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Phoenix on January 18, lot 273.
Unpopular for his attitude under German occupation, Leopold III had abdicated in 1951. Until 1960 he resides in the royal palace with his second wife Lilian, Princesse de Réthy. They like Ferrari cars specially designed for them, coached by Vignale and then by Pinin Farina.
The former king prefers the most powerful cabriolets. His 342 America delivered in 1953 and his 375 Plus delivered in 1955 are precursors of the 250 GT California Spider. The princess buys a 250 GT Europa coupe, delivered in 1955.
This relationship is extremely useful to Ferrari. When Pirelli announces in full 1955 racing season that he stops supplying tires to Ferrari, the princess finds the solution by convincing the Belgian company Englebert to ship immediately to Maranello the necessary hardware.
She orders shortly afterward a 250 GT Coupe Speciale. Bodied in 1957, this car is a one-off for which Pinin Farina realizes a patchwork of his developments in progress, such as the covered headlights that will soon equip the 250 GT TdF.
Ten years later the princess acquires a 330 GTC. Sponsoring the American cardiac surgery, she presents the 250 GT to a deserving doctor. This 250 Coupe Speciale is estimated $ 11M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Phoenix on January 18, lot 273.
1958 The Spider and its Roof
2020 UNSOLD
The California Spider is not a spyder and should not be confused with a cabriolet. It is a coupe whose roof has been removed.
In 1955 Ferrari was jealous of the success of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. He had a sports berlinetta developed on the 250 GT chassis. Designed by Pinin Farina and manufactured by Scaglietti, this model will be nicknamed TdF after its wins in the Tour de France.
In 1957 John von Neumann, Ferrari agent for the west coast of the United States, deplores that this new car does not match the envy of his customers for a lightweight European sports car, pleasant to drive under the Californian sun. It would suffice to open the berlinetta.
Luigi Chinetti, importer of Ferrari in the United States, transfers the idea of von Neumann to Enzo Ferrari. Ferrari is not enthusiastic because he is promoting the release of his heavy 250 GTC convertible, assembled on the same chassis, which will be known as the Pinin Farina Prima Serie Cabriolet.
If Ferrari had not endorsed the sports version, Pinin Farina or Scaglietti would not have any technical difficulty to offer this transformation on private commission. The prototype of this Californian-style model is indeed a Ferrari, produced by the same subcontractors as the TdF : design by Pinin Farina and manufacture by Scaglietti. It is delivered in January 1958 to a customer of Chinetti.
In June and July 1958, Scaglietti assembles seven cars on this model. When he restarts production in the fall of 1958, Ferrari finally ratifies this Speciale as a new model, the Ferrari 250 Granturismo Spyder California, abbreviated as Ferrari 250 California, a designation which did not invite competition with the other cabriolet. Spyder soon becomes Spider to discourage comparison with the Porsche Spyder.
The early 1958 spiders have some common points with the TdFs which will be differentiated later, including the arrangement of the side louvre and rear lights, and the bumpers. They already offer the elegant option of covered headlamps and the options of folding top and removable hardtop.
Only one of these first eight spiders is sold in Europe. It returned to matching numbers after the cancellation in 1990 of an engine exchange carried out in 1973 with a 250 GT Ellena. It has kept its main original elements, including chassis, gearbox, brakes, suspension and bodywork and is accompanied by its very rare factory hardtop. The headlamps are covered.
This spider is estimated $ 9M for sale by Gooding at Amelia Island on March 6, lot 43. Here is the link to the press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
In 1955 Ferrari was jealous of the success of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. He had a sports berlinetta developed on the 250 GT chassis. Designed by Pinin Farina and manufactured by Scaglietti, this model will be nicknamed TdF after its wins in the Tour de France.
In 1957 John von Neumann, Ferrari agent for the west coast of the United States, deplores that this new car does not match the envy of his customers for a lightweight European sports car, pleasant to drive under the Californian sun. It would suffice to open the berlinetta.
Luigi Chinetti, importer of Ferrari in the United States, transfers the idea of von Neumann to Enzo Ferrari. Ferrari is not enthusiastic because he is promoting the release of his heavy 250 GTC convertible, assembled on the same chassis, which will be known as the Pinin Farina Prima Serie Cabriolet.
If Ferrari had not endorsed the sports version, Pinin Farina or Scaglietti would not have any technical difficulty to offer this transformation on private commission. The prototype of this Californian-style model is indeed a Ferrari, produced by the same subcontractors as the TdF : design by Pinin Farina and manufacture by Scaglietti. It is delivered in January 1958 to a customer of Chinetti.
In June and July 1958, Scaglietti assembles seven cars on this model. When he restarts production in the fall of 1958, Ferrari finally ratifies this Speciale as a new model, the Ferrari 250 Granturismo Spyder California, abbreviated as Ferrari 250 California, a designation which did not invite competition with the other cabriolet. Spyder soon becomes Spider to discourage comparison with the Porsche Spyder.
The early 1958 spiders have some common points with the TdFs which will be differentiated later, including the arrangement of the side louvre and rear lights, and the bumpers. They already offer the elegant option of covered headlamps and the options of folding top and removable hardtop.
Only one of these first eight spiders is sold in Europe. It returned to matching numbers after the cancellation in 1990 of an engine exchange carried out in 1973 with a 250 GT Ellena. It has kept its main original elements, including chassis, gearbox, brakes, suspension and bodywork and is accompanied by its very rare factory hardtop. The headlamps are covered.
This spider is estimated $ 9M for sale by Gooding at Amelia Island on March 6, lot 43. Here is the link to the press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1958 Third Series of the Tdf
2018 unsold
The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta is better referred by its unofficial designation 250 GT LWB TdF that distinguishes it from later models inspired by its tremendous success. It was launched in 1956 for the Gran Turismo competition with a lightweight aluminum body designed by Pininfarina and manufactured by Scaglietti.
A few months later the body becomes more angular and fourteen ventilation slots or louvers are introduced on both rear lateral walls of the cockpit.
The body released in 1957 is the third variant with the number of louvers reduced to three and the desirable introduction of covered headlights. 17 cars are built.
The 15th TdF of this third series leaves the factory in early 1958. It participated in 22 competitions at the hands of a careful owner. It remains one of the most authentic TdF, fully matching numbers and authenticated by Ferrari Classiche. Well known to fans of old Ferraris, it did not fail to take part in the celebrations of the 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries of the brand.
This third series TdF is estimated € 7M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monaco on May 12, lot 167.
I previously discussed in this column a highly rare first series TdF that won the 1956 Tour de France with de Portago, sold for $ 13.2M including premium by RM Sotheby's on August 15, 2015, and a fourteen louver TdF sold for $ 9.5M including premium by Gooding on August 17, 2013.
A few months later the body becomes more angular and fourteen ventilation slots or louvers are introduced on both rear lateral walls of the cockpit.
The body released in 1957 is the third variant with the number of louvers reduced to three and the desirable introduction of covered headlights. 17 cars are built.
The 15th TdF of this third series leaves the factory in early 1958. It participated in 22 competitions at the hands of a careful owner. It remains one of the most authentic TdF, fully matching numbers and authenticated by Ferrari Classiche. Well known to fans of old Ferraris, it did not fail to take part in the celebrations of the 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries of the brand.
This third series TdF is estimated € 7M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monaco on May 12, lot 167.
I previously discussed in this column a highly rare first series TdF that won the 1956 Tour de France with de Portago, sold for $ 13.2M including premium by RM Sotheby's on August 15, 2015, and a fourteen louver TdF sold for $ 9.5M including premium by Gooding on August 17, 2013.
1958 TdF
2023 unsold by Gooding
Another single louver TdF made in 1958 had an extensive hillclimb competition history in Switzerland with its first owner.
This car is Ferrari Classiche certified with original chassis, bodywork, engine, gearbox and rear end and has the covered headlight option. It has been restored from 2017 to 2019 by Motion Products, the specialized company of the late Wayne Obry, and completed the 2019 Colorado Grand.
It is estimated $ 6M for sale by Gooding on March 3, 2023, lot 146. It is illustrated in second position in the press release of the auction house.
This car is Ferrari Classiche certified with original chassis, bodywork, engine, gearbox and rear end and has the covered headlight option. It has been restored from 2017 to 2019 by Motion Products, the specialized company of the late Wayne Obry, and completed the 2019 Colorado Grand.
It is estimated $ 6M for sale by Gooding on March 3, 2023, lot 146. It is illustrated in second position in the press release of the auction house.
1958 cabriolets in the salons
2018 both unsold
Ferrari's GT 250 chassis with a V12 engine is at first intended to improve the Europa coupe. A 250 GT Europa prototype built by Pinin Farina is exhibited at the Salon de l'Auto in Paris in 1954.
Pinin Farina is more motivated by development than by production. In 1956 he leaves to Boano the first attempt to industrialize his design for the 250 GT coupe. Encouraged by the success of this 250 GT, Boano builds the very first 250 GT cabriolet that comes on display at the Salon de l'Automobile in Geneva.
These motor shows perfectly meet their target of offering to the manufacturers the reactions of the public. Pinin Farina and Chinetti observe the keen interest generated by the Boano convertible but their vision is different. Chinetti is aiming for a spectacular car that will appeal Hollywood and the jet set. Pinin Farina imagines a luxury cabriolet for demanding customers.
Both projects are accepted by Ferrari. The California Spider is built by Scaglietti on a Pinin Farina design. The Prima Serie cabriolet is a long series of prototypes designed and manufactured by Pinin Farina, with small differences from one car to another. The price list leaves no doubt : it is the cabriolet which is the high end.
Motor shows continue to display the progress of automotive brands. The 8th Prima Serie car is exhibited in 1957 at the Salone dell'Automobile in Torino. It was sold for $ 6.8M including premium by Bonhams on August 14, 2014.
The 35th Prima Serie car is exhibited in 1958 at the Turin Motor Show. In stunning condition and matching numbers, it is estimated $ 7M for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 19, lot 43. Here is the link to the press release.
The Prima Serie leads to an industrialization known as Secunda Serie which is unveiled at the 1958 Paris Salon.
Please watch the video shared by Gooding to introduce the cabriolet of their next sale.
ADDENDUM :
Another 1958 Series I cabriolet also in matching numbers and great original condition is estimated € 7M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 9, lot 95.
Pinin Farina is more motivated by development than by production. In 1956 he leaves to Boano the first attempt to industrialize his design for the 250 GT coupe. Encouraged by the success of this 250 GT, Boano builds the very first 250 GT cabriolet that comes on display at the Salon de l'Automobile in Geneva.
These motor shows perfectly meet their target of offering to the manufacturers the reactions of the public. Pinin Farina and Chinetti observe the keen interest generated by the Boano convertible but their vision is different. Chinetti is aiming for a spectacular car that will appeal Hollywood and the jet set. Pinin Farina imagines a luxury cabriolet for demanding customers.
Both projects are accepted by Ferrari. The California Spider is built by Scaglietti on a Pinin Farina design. The Prima Serie cabriolet is a long series of prototypes designed and manufactured by Pinin Farina, with small differences from one car to another. The price list leaves no doubt : it is the cabriolet which is the high end.
Motor shows continue to display the progress of automotive brands. The 8th Prima Serie car is exhibited in 1957 at the Salone dell'Automobile in Torino. It was sold for $ 6.8M including premium by Bonhams on August 14, 2014.
The 35th Prima Serie car is exhibited in 1958 at the Turin Motor Show. In stunning condition and matching numbers, it is estimated $ 7M for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 19, lot 43. Here is the link to the press release.
The Prima Serie leads to an industrialization known as Secunda Serie which is unveiled at the 1958 Paris Salon.
Please watch the video shared by Gooding to introduce the cabriolet of their next sale.
ADDENDUM :
Another 1958 Series I cabriolet also in matching numbers and great original condition is estimated € 7M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 9, lot 95.
1958 Ferrari 250 TR for sale in California
2010 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Traditionally, California is in mid-August the meeting point for collectors of racing and luxury cars. The biggest auction houses are now starting to release their catalogs. There is no doubt that, this year, their whole supply is breathtaking.
RM Auctions holds the star, a Ferrari 250 TR for sale in Monterey on August 14. On May 17, 2009, by the same auction house but in Maranello, another 250 TR, chassis 0714TR, had reached 9 million € including premium.
Let us now consider the 0738TR, which left the factory in 1958. It is bright yellow with green stripe, the colors of Brazil. Of course, it bears the Testa Rossa (TR), the Ferrari-red valve cover that is the prerogative of the best cars of the brand. After ten years, it was still winning races against newer models, and remained in a condition to participate in competitions. It retains its original engine but a spare engine is added.
This model had a shape name "pontoon fender" designed by Scaglietti, which was particularly effective and innovative for the time with its wings that covered only partially the wheels for limiting the heating.
21 cars of the 250 TR type were produced, and not 22 as I wrote in my entry of last year based on the information that I had found at that time.
Traditionally, California is in mid-August the meeting point for collectors of racing and luxury cars. The biggest auction houses are now starting to release their catalogs. There is no doubt that, this year, their whole supply is breathtaking.
RM Auctions holds the star, a Ferrari 250 TR for sale in Monterey on August 14. On May 17, 2009, by the same auction house but in Maranello, another 250 TR, chassis 0714TR, had reached 9 million € including premium.
Let us now consider the 0738TR, which left the factory in 1958. It is bright yellow with green stripe, the colors of Brazil. Of course, it bears the Testa Rossa (TR), the Ferrari-red valve cover that is the prerogative of the best cars of the brand. After ten years, it was still winning races against newer models, and remained in a condition to participate in competitions. It retains its original engine but a spare engine is added.
This model had a shape name "pontoon fender" designed by Scaglietti, which was particularly effective and innovative for the time with its wings that covered only partially the wheels for limiting the heating.
21 cars of the 250 TR type were produced, and not 22 as I wrote in my entry of last year based on the information that I had found at that time.
1959 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Prima Serie
2014 SOLD for $ 5.6M by Gooding
From 1956 Ferrari is planning a mass production of sports cars. This new activity is indispensable in the long term for the financial balance of the brand.
The Carrozzeria Pinin Farina is the privileged partner of Ferrari for the design of the bodies. In the long pre-series phase of the luxury 250 GT convertible, 40 Prima Serie cars are produced. The body is built by Pinin Farina.
Chinetti is not waiting to ask Ferrari for another convertible, less luxurious but more incentive to the competition, which will be the 250 GT California Spyder, also designed by Pinin Farina but built by Scaglietti. This confusing denomination of 'spyder' for a convertible has the advantage of differentiating the model both from the convertible for European use and from true spiders. In the Ferrari price list this cabriolet is more expensive than the California.
The Seconda Serie is the industrial phase that follows the Prima Serie from 1959. However some of the latest ideas for improvements in the Prima are still being implemented by Pinin Farina after the Seconda prototype.
Realized in 1959 the latest Ferrari 250 GT Series I Cabriolet is in a great condition with its engine in matching number. It was sold by Gooding for $ 5.6M in August 2014. After a cosmetic restoration, it was sold for $ 4.8M, again by Gooding, on August 18, 2017, lot 36.
The Carrozzeria Pinin Farina is the privileged partner of Ferrari for the design of the bodies. In the long pre-series phase of the luxury 250 GT convertible, 40 Prima Serie cars are produced. The body is built by Pinin Farina.
Chinetti is not waiting to ask Ferrari for another convertible, less luxurious but more incentive to the competition, which will be the 250 GT California Spyder, also designed by Pinin Farina but built by Scaglietti. This confusing denomination of 'spyder' for a convertible has the advantage of differentiating the model both from the convertible for European use and from true spiders. In the Ferrari price list this cabriolet is more expensive than the California.
The Seconda Serie is the industrial phase that follows the Prima Serie from 1959. However some of the latest ideas for improvements in the Prima are still being implemented by Pinin Farina after the Seconda prototype.
Realized in 1959 the latest Ferrari 250 GT Series I Cabriolet is in a great condition with its engine in matching number. It was sold by Gooding for $ 5.6M in August 2014. After a cosmetic restoration, it was sold for $ 4.8M, again by Gooding, on August 18, 2017, lot 36.
1959 Ferrari 410 Superamerica
2017 SOLD for $ 5.3M by RM Sotheby's
The America range begins in the early 1950s. Ferrari then understands that power and speed contribute to the prestige of the wealthy customers outside the closed world of competition. The jet set also enjoys a car that offers some unique features. The design and make of such small variants is a specialty of Pinin Farina.
The early America road cars are adaptations of the competition models. Ferrari increases this business by launching in 1954 the design of a road car equipped with a V-12 5-liter Lampredi engine. With a sense for marketing this 410 is named Superamerica. The targeted clientele is the wealthy American and Italian industrialists.
From 1955 to 1959 Ferrari produces 34 units of the 410 Superamerica divided into three series differentiating the production periods. Most of them are coupes.
A Series II coupe bought new in 1957 by the Shah of Iran for use by Princess Soraya was sold for $ 5.1M including premium by Gooding in August 2015.
The Series III of twelve units in a shortened wheelbase is the culmination of luxury and also of selling price of the 410 Superamerica. The next series will be the 400 Superamerica.
A Series III coupe built by Pinin Farina in 1959 with the desirable variant of the covered headlights was sold for $ 5.3M by RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2017, lot 249. It retains its original engine, gearbox and rear axle.
It passed at the same auction house on on August 14, 2021, lot 337. In the mean time it has been returned to its factory configuration by RM Auto Restoration and won first in class at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. Please watch the video shared by RM Sotheby's.
The early America road cars are adaptations of the competition models. Ferrari increases this business by launching in 1954 the design of a road car equipped with a V-12 5-liter Lampredi engine. With a sense for marketing this 410 is named Superamerica. The targeted clientele is the wealthy American and Italian industrialists.
From 1955 to 1959 Ferrari produces 34 units of the 410 Superamerica divided into three series differentiating the production periods. Most of them are coupes.
A Series II coupe bought new in 1957 by the Shah of Iran for use by Princess Soraya was sold for $ 5.1M including premium by Gooding in August 2015.
The Series III of twelve units in a shortened wheelbase is the culmination of luxury and also of selling price of the 410 Superamerica. The next series will be the 400 Superamerica.
A Series III coupe built by Pinin Farina in 1959 with the desirable variant of the covered headlights was sold for $ 5.3M by RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2017, lot 249. It retains its original engine, gearbox and rear axle.
It passed at the same auction house on on August 14, 2021, lot 337. In the mean time it has been returned to its factory configuration by RM Auto Restoration and won first in class at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. Please watch the video shared by RM Sotheby's.
1959 A Ferrari in the Parisian Nights
2012 SOLD 4.5 M€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
In the 1950s, the image of the woman becomes modern. In promoting his young wife Brigitte Bardot in Et Dieu créa la Femme, Roger Vadim takes place among the most prominent personalities of the cinema.
In 1959, Vadim is now married to Annette Stroyberg. This tireless seducer requires the most beautiful grand touring car. Within the wide range of Ferrari 250 GT, he makes the right choice: he orders a California Spider, a model designed by Pinin Farina and coachworked by Scaglietti.
This car in the long wheel base variant (LWB) is for sale on February 3 in Paris by Artcurial.
On May 18, 2008 in Maranello, RM Auctions sold a short wheel base Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider that had belonged to actor James Coburn. The extraordinary result for a grand touring car, € 7M including premium, is a heartfelt bid rewarding far beyond the estimate one of the most beautiful car in the world, superbly black painted.
POST SALE COMMENT
250 GT California Spider Ferraris are uncontested stars of car sales. An LWB made in 1959 was sold for $ 3.9 million including premium by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 21, 2012.
Of course, only cars that have retained their original equipment ("matching numbers") can expect to reach this price range. Vadim's car got a great result: € 4.5 million including premium. The provenance from a celebrity has probably also been favorable, although the market of high end cars is not necessarily sensitive to this aspect. Here, the source has largely enhanced the pre-sale media effort.
In the 1950s, the image of the woman becomes modern. In promoting his young wife Brigitte Bardot in Et Dieu créa la Femme, Roger Vadim takes place among the most prominent personalities of the cinema.
In 1959, Vadim is now married to Annette Stroyberg. This tireless seducer requires the most beautiful grand touring car. Within the wide range of Ferrari 250 GT, he makes the right choice: he orders a California Spider, a model designed by Pinin Farina and coachworked by Scaglietti.
This car in the long wheel base variant (LWB) is for sale on February 3 in Paris by Artcurial.
On May 18, 2008 in Maranello, RM Auctions sold a short wheel base Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider that had belonged to actor James Coburn. The extraordinary result for a grand touring car, € 7M including premium, is a heartfelt bid rewarding far beyond the estimate one of the most beautiful car in the world, superbly black painted.
POST SALE COMMENT
250 GT California Spider Ferraris are uncontested stars of car sales. An LWB made in 1959 was sold for $ 3.9 million including premium by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 21, 2012.
Of course, only cars that have retained their original equipment ("matching numbers") can expect to reach this price range. Vadim's car got a great result: € 4.5 million including premium. The provenance from a celebrity has probably also been favorable, although the market of high end cars is not necessarily sensitive to this aspect. Here, the source has largely enhanced the pre-sale media effort.
1959 California Spider
2023 unsold by RM Sotheby's
A Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider made in 1959 had been factory equipped with an uprated competition engine and with the covered headlights. It was used as a test car for the Sports Cars Illustrated magazine.
This car won a best of show in the 2013 Salon Privé Concours d'Elegance and a first in class in 2014 at the Villa d'Este.
Retaining its numbers matching engine, gearbox and rear axle, it is estimated $ 9M for sale by RM Sotheby's on March 4, 2023, lot 150. It is accompanied by original manuals and a complete tool kit.
This car won a best of show in the 2013 Salon Privé Concours d'Elegance and a first in class in 2014 at the Villa d'Este.
Retaining its numbers matching engine, gearbox and rear axle, it is estimated $ 9M for sale by RM Sotheby's on March 4, 2023, lot 150. It is accompanied by original manuals and a complete tool kit.
1960 Ferrari 400 Superamerica
2015 SOLD for $ 6.4M by RM Sotheby's
While their 250 GT cars dominate the endurance competitions in accordance with the regulations of their time, Ferrari continues to deliver more powerful cars for road use, in very small series for wealthy clients. The new qulifier is the Superamerica, of which the Superfast is a variant.
Powered by a 5 liter Lampredi V12 engine, the 410 Superamerica is an elite model, elegant and luxurious. The 400 Superamerica succeeds it in 1959 with a decreased displacement to 4 liters with no hp loss provided by a bored Colombo-style single camshaft V12. Pininfarina provides the custom bodywork as a coupe, spider or cabriolet. It aims to be the best car money could buy.
This first series of Ferrari 400 Superamerica was later designated as SWB to distinguish it from the second series. Ferrari actually found that its short wheelbase was not optimal for the comfort of the cockpit and preferred to extend this setting before continuing this model.
Seven cars are built in 1960 in the first 400 SWB batch of the first series. The third unit bodied in cabriolet in 1960 by Pininfarina was sold for $ 6.4M by RM Sotheby's on March 14, 2015, lot 145. This car is particularly desirable after a very careful restoration. It had not yet been shown in a concours d'elegance, and its owner sold it in favor of a foundation created by him for the education of children.
A 1962 400 Superamerica SWB cabriolet by Pininfarina raced in period on the Bonneville Salt Flats was sold for $ 7.6M by RM Sotheby's on May 2, 2015, lot 222.
Powered by a 5 liter Lampredi V12 engine, the 410 Superamerica is an elite model, elegant and luxurious. The 400 Superamerica succeeds it in 1959 with a decreased displacement to 4 liters with no hp loss provided by a bored Colombo-style single camshaft V12. Pininfarina provides the custom bodywork as a coupe, spider or cabriolet. It aims to be the best car money could buy.
This first series of Ferrari 400 Superamerica was later designated as SWB to distinguish it from the second series. Ferrari actually found that its short wheelbase was not optimal for the comfort of the cockpit and preferred to extend this setting before continuing this model.
Seven cars are built in 1960 in the first 400 SWB batch of the first series. The third unit bodied in cabriolet in 1960 by Pininfarina was sold for $ 6.4M by RM Sotheby's on March 14, 2015, lot 145. This car is particularly desirable after a very careful restoration. It had not yet been shown in a concours d'elegance, and its owner sold it in favor of a foundation created by him for the education of children.
A 1962 400 Superamerica SWB cabriolet by Pininfarina raced in period on the Bonneville Salt Flats was sold for $ 7.6M by RM Sotheby's on May 2, 2015, lot 222.
1960 the secret of wayne obry
2015 unsold
Under the somewhat mysterious name The Pinnacle Portfolio, RM Sotheby's disperses on August 13 in Monterey the most exciting single owner collection ever offered at auction of sports cars and supercars. The undisputed pinnacle in this group is a Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione from 1960 bodied by Scaglietti, lot 125.
The 250 GT SWB and LWB, although being high-end cars, are not uncommon in the private market and at auction. The Pinnacle Portfolio includes one of each : an LWB California Spider and the SWB which is the subject of this post.
The choice of this SWB previously known through its participation in some Concours d'Elegance was clever. Despite a very good history in competition, it never had a major incident or a clumsy restoration and could be a great candidate to be restored according to the latest and best available know how.
A market survey conducted by the Pinnacle Portfolio owner led to entrust this painstaking work to Wayne Obry and his Motion Products Inc company in Neenah WI. Obry shares his secret on the website of his company : with an experience of more than thirty years on Ferraris, he turns rust into millions.
The customer was demanding : the restoration must be perfect. Previously the fans were essentially seeking the compliance to the original specifications with an authentic equipment. They now require that the adjustment of mechanical parts offers the same quality of driving and road holding as at the first release from Maranello half a century earlier.
The present car was ideal for such an ambitious purpose. Obry confirmed that the chassis and all mechanical components were original and in very good condition. The restoration which costed nearly $ 700K was completed by Motion Products Inc just in time to include the car in the RM auction list.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
The 250 GT SWB and LWB, although being high-end cars, are not uncommon in the private market and at auction. The Pinnacle Portfolio includes one of each : an LWB California Spider and the SWB which is the subject of this post.
The choice of this SWB previously known through its participation in some Concours d'Elegance was clever. Despite a very good history in competition, it never had a major incident or a clumsy restoration and could be a great candidate to be restored according to the latest and best available know how.
A market survey conducted by the Pinnacle Portfolio owner led to entrust this painstaking work to Wayne Obry and his Motion Products Inc company in Neenah WI. Obry shares his secret on the website of his company : with an experience of more than thirty years on Ferraris, he turns rust into millions.
The customer was demanding : the restoration must be perfect. Previously the fans were essentially seeking the compliance to the original specifications with an authentic equipment. They now require that the adjustment of mechanical parts offers the same quality of driving and road holding as at the first release from Maranello half a century earlier.
The present car was ideal for such an ambitious purpose. Obry confirmed that the chassis and all mechanical components were original and in very good condition. The restoration which costed nearly $ 700K was completed by Motion Products Inc just in time to include the car in the RM auction list.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
1960 the swb berlinetta
2015 unsold
A new Ferrari racing chassis gets different customers depending on whether the body will be closed or open. A berlinetta can be used on the road while the spider, beyond the track, can only appeal the jet set.
So the 250 GT in 1956, which would later be referenced as 250 GT LWB, is both offered as California Spyder and as berlinetta Tour de France. A TdF from 1957 was sold for $ 9.5 million including premium by Gooding on August 17, 2013.
By 1959 the shortening of the wheelbase by no less than 20 cm for improving the stability creates a new pair of prestigious models. The chassis becomes SWB and the berlinetta loses its nickname Tour de France.
On May 23 at Villa Erba on the shores of Lake Como, RM Sotheby's sells at lot 124 a Ferrari 250 GT SWB made in 1960 coachworked in Berlinetta Competizione by Scaglietti.
The berlinettas are much less rare than the spiders but this car is still in a remarkable condition of authenticity, certainly linked to the fact that it was not used in competition at its early time, and despite an accident in the 1970s.
I invite you to watch the video shared on YouTube by RM.
So the 250 GT in 1956, which would later be referenced as 250 GT LWB, is both offered as California Spyder and as berlinetta Tour de France. A TdF from 1957 was sold for $ 9.5 million including premium by Gooding on August 17, 2013.
By 1959 the shortening of the wheelbase by no less than 20 cm for improving the stability creates a new pair of prestigious models. The chassis becomes SWB and the berlinetta loses its nickname Tour de France.
On May 23 at Villa Erba on the shores of Lake Como, RM Sotheby's sells at lot 124 a Ferrari 250 GT SWB made in 1960 coachworked in Berlinetta Competizione by Scaglietti.
The berlinettas are much less rare than the spiders but this car is still in a remarkable condition of authenticity, certainly linked to the fact that it was not used in competition at its early time, and despite an accident in the 1970s.
I invite you to watch the video shared on YouTube by RM.
1961 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Coupe Aerodinamico
2022 SOLD for $ 6M by Gooding
The overall production of the 400 Superamerica was 47 cars including 14 SWB and 32 in the coupe aerodinamico variant.
A 1961 SWB was uniquely bodied by Pininfarina as a lightweight aluminum coupe aerodinamico on commission from one of Ferrari's most prolific customers who also specified several accommodation goodies, not forgetting the covered headlamps. That wealthy gentleman had the car immediately reupholstered by the factory to better match his requirements. He used the car for 15 months.
It was sold for $ 6M from a lower estimate of $ 4M by Gooding on August 20, 2022, lot 133. In a well preserved condition with less than 25,000 km from new, it retains its original chassis, body, engine, gearbox and rear end. It is illustrated in second position in the pre sale press release.
A 1961 SWB was uniquely bodied by Pininfarina as a lightweight aluminum coupe aerodinamico on commission from one of Ferrari's most prolific customers who also specified several accommodation goodies, not forgetting the covered headlamps. That wealthy gentleman had the car immediately reupholstered by the factory to better match his requirements. He used the car for 15 months.
It was sold for $ 6M from a lower estimate of $ 4M by Gooding on August 20, 2022, lot 133. In a well preserved condition with less than 25,000 km from new, it retains its original chassis, body, engine, gearbox and rear end. It is illustrated in second position in the pre sale press release.
1961 success for the california spider
2015 unsold
In the 250 GT range by Ferrari, the California Spider, as its name suggests, is appealing the American clientele. In 1957, it competes in the catalogue with the closed berlinetta. The jet set enthusiastically welcomes this convertible version that is altogether capable of the best performances in endurance racing and homologated for the street.
The gap is even increased in 1960 when Ferrari offers a breakthrough with the shortening of the wheelbase. The new 250 GT SWB California Spider is the commercial high end of the brand and perhaps the best convertible of all time. Despite all its qualities and its impeccable aesthetic that anticipates the 250 GTO, the 250 GT SWB berlinetta comes behind.
From 1960 to 1962 Ferrari produced 56 units of the 250 GT SWB California Spider. Now the collectors scrutinize the original authenticity of the elements of these cars. One of them that had been forgotten for decades in a barn was sold for € 16.3M including premium on 6 February 2015 by Artcurial despite a condition calling for an extensive repair.
The highest price recorded at auction for a car of this model in good condition is $ 15.2 million including premium by Gooding on 16 August 2014. This unit had started its career as a demonstration car.
Another very nice example released in 1961 is estimated € 11M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Villa Erba (Lake Como) on May 23,lot 130.
The gap is even increased in 1960 when Ferrari offers a breakthrough with the shortening of the wheelbase. The new 250 GT SWB California Spider is the commercial high end of the brand and perhaps the best convertible of all time. Despite all its qualities and its impeccable aesthetic that anticipates the 250 GTO, the 250 GT SWB berlinetta comes behind.
From 1960 to 1962 Ferrari produced 56 units of the 250 GT SWB California Spider. Now the collectors scrutinize the original authenticity of the elements of these cars. One of them that had been forgotten for decades in a barn was sold for € 16.3M including premium on 6 February 2015 by Artcurial despite a condition calling for an extensive repair.
The highest price recorded at auction for a car of this model in good condition is $ 15.2 million including premium by Gooding on 16 August 2014. This unit had started its career as a demonstration car.
Another very nice example released in 1961 is estimated € 11M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Villa Erba (Lake Como) on May 23,lot 130.
1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica
2015 SOLD for $ 7.6M by RM Sotheby's
The beautiful Ferrari 400 Superamerica cabriolet arrived too late on the market. This stylish car bodied by Pinin Farina had all the technical qualities to appeal the wealthy amateurs of powerful sports cars, but the road speed limits reduced the enthusiasm for this model which was the most expensive in the catalog of the brand.
Very few 400 Superamerica were assembled on a SWB chassis. The third of these cars, made in 1960, was sold for $ 6.4 million including premium by RM Sotheby's on 14 March 2015.
The seventh car left the factory in 1962. It was exhibited by Ferrari at the Geneva Motor show and then by Chinetti at the New York Auto show. Hopes for a development in that market were disappointed. Only one customer had a desire to own this model: he bought that unit, which was the last.
His name was Gus Stallings. His passion was to push the most powerful cars to their maximum possible speed on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Its 400 Superamerica reached 233 km/h at the end of 1962.
This ultimate 400 Superamerica SWB is estimated $ 7M for sale without reserve by RM Sotheby's in Fort Worth, TX on May 2, lot 222.
Very few 400 Superamerica were assembled on a SWB chassis. The third of these cars, made in 1960, was sold for $ 6.4 million including premium by RM Sotheby's on 14 March 2015.
The seventh car left the factory in 1962. It was exhibited by Ferrari at the Geneva Motor show and then by Chinetti at the New York Auto show. Hopes for a development in that market were disappointed. Only one customer had a desire to own this model: he bought that unit, which was the last.
His name was Gus Stallings. His passion was to push the most powerful cars to their maximum possible speed on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Its 400 Superamerica reached 233 km/h at the end of 1962.
This ultimate 400 Superamerica SWB is estimated $ 7M for sale without reserve by RM Sotheby's in Fort Worth, TX on May 2, lot 222.
1962 The Dino Range
2019 unsold
In 1960 the ephemeral 246 P is the first mid-engined Ferrari. In the following year the regulations of Formula 1 change once more, limiting the engine displacement to 1.5 liters. Ferrari is world champion with the 156 which had just been developed for the F2.
Dino Ferrari, who died in 1956 from the Duchenne disease, had advocated a diversification of the engines used by the brand, especially to remain competitive against the small Porsches. This observation was followed by developments entrusted to the engineers Jano and Chiti. In 1961 the V6 and V8 mid-engine prototypes start the Dino Ferrari range, with a success that will be extended from 1968 to GT commercial models.
The first Dino prototypes, displayed in a press conference in February 1961, were two 246 SP (2.4 liters, 6 cylinders). The early results seem promising. The range is expanded looking for an acceptable compromise between the volume, the number and angle of the cylinders, and the regulations of the competitions. From then the V6 also equips the 196 SP (1.9 liters) and 286 SP (2.8 liters).
Ferrari also releases a V8 with elements recovered from the V12 of the Superamerica 400. The 2.4-liter engine of the 248 SP is not suitable. Ferrari tries a new variant, the 268 SP (2.6 liters).
On August 16 in Monterey, RM Sotheby's sells a Dino SP, lot 244 estimated $ 8M. It was bodied in spider by Fantuzzi like the other prototypes of this series. Built in 248 SP in 1962 for use by the Scuderia Ferrari, it was transformed twice before the end of that year, in 268 SP and then in 196 SP. It remained afterward in 196 SP and retains the matching-number engine and gearbox of this latest factory configuration.
It is the twin of another 248 SP which was later maintained in 268 SP. This car, which remains equipped with one of the rarest Ferrari engines, passed at RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2016. From 1972 to 1984 the two cars were together in the prestigious Bardinon collection.
Dino Ferrari, who died in 1956 from the Duchenne disease, had advocated a diversification of the engines used by the brand, especially to remain competitive against the small Porsches. This observation was followed by developments entrusted to the engineers Jano and Chiti. In 1961 the V6 and V8 mid-engine prototypes start the Dino Ferrari range, with a success that will be extended from 1968 to GT commercial models.
The first Dino prototypes, displayed in a press conference in February 1961, were two 246 SP (2.4 liters, 6 cylinders). The early results seem promising. The range is expanded looking for an acceptable compromise between the volume, the number and angle of the cylinders, and the regulations of the competitions. From then the V6 also equips the 196 SP (1.9 liters) and 286 SP (2.8 liters).
Ferrari also releases a V8 with elements recovered from the V12 of the Superamerica 400. The 2.4-liter engine of the 248 SP is not suitable. Ferrari tries a new variant, the 268 SP (2.6 liters).
On August 16 in Monterey, RM Sotheby's sells a Dino SP, lot 244 estimated $ 8M. It was bodied in spider by Fantuzzi like the other prototypes of this series. Built in 248 SP in 1962 for use by the Scuderia Ferrari, it was transformed twice before the end of that year, in 268 SP and then in 196 SP. It remained afterward in 196 SP and retains the matching-number engine and gearbox of this latest factory configuration.
It is the twin of another 248 SP which was later maintained in 268 SP. This car, which remains equipped with one of the rarest Ferrari engines, passed at RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2016. From 1972 to 1984 the two cars were together in the prestigious Bardinon collection.
1963 the mid engined ferrari
2018 withdrawn
For a long time Enzo Ferrari only accepted front engines. This reluctance was canceled in 1963 with the Ferrari 250 P, the first model of the brand with a central V12 engine. It entered the Ferrari nomenclature with the number 250 corresponding to the volume in cc per cylinder but has nothing in common with the 250 GT or GTO. P stands for Prototype.
Four 250 P are built in 1963, bodied in spyder by Fantuzzi. Their performances are brilliant, at Sebring, at Nürburgring and at Le Mans where they are bespoke for the new P 3.0 class and win the 1st and 3rd positions overall.
In 1964 at Le Mans, Ferrari is targeting the P 5.0 class and increases its volumes. Engine sizing for endurance racing is a compromise between power and maneuverability. Ferrari enters in parallel in this competition its new models 275 P with 3.3 liters engine and 330 P with 4 liters engine.
Three of the four 250 P prototypes made in the previous year are modified during the 1964 season. One of them converted to 275 P wins the last victory of the Scuderia Ferrari at Le Mans before that factory team lastingly withdraws from that race. This 250P/275P sold in the following year to a private owner still participates in some competitions before entering in 1970 in the Bardinon collection.
This car has not been damaged or again transformed and retains its matching 275 engine. Coming now from the Bardinon estate, it will be sold by Artcurial in Paris on February 9, lot 87. Here is the link to the press release.
There is no authentic raw 250 P in existence. The other two cars converted in 1964 are maintained in the 330 P configuration and the only unmodified car was severely damaged in 1966.
This model had however an important continuation when Ferrari transformed it into the 250 LM berlinetta, introduced at the Paris Motor Show in November 1963. This filiation confirms that Ferrari's request to homologate the 250 LM in the GT category by similarity with the 250 GT was not relevant.
Four 250 P are built in 1963, bodied in spyder by Fantuzzi. Their performances are brilliant, at Sebring, at Nürburgring and at Le Mans where they are bespoke for the new P 3.0 class and win the 1st and 3rd positions overall.
In 1964 at Le Mans, Ferrari is targeting the P 5.0 class and increases its volumes. Engine sizing for endurance racing is a compromise between power and maneuverability. Ferrari enters in parallel in this competition its new models 275 P with 3.3 liters engine and 330 P with 4 liters engine.
Three of the four 250 P prototypes made in the previous year are modified during the 1964 season. One of them converted to 275 P wins the last victory of the Scuderia Ferrari at Le Mans before that factory team lastingly withdraws from that race. This 250P/275P sold in the following year to a private owner still participates in some competitions before entering in 1970 in the Bardinon collection.
This car has not been damaged or again transformed and retains its matching 275 engine. Coming now from the Bardinon estate, it will be sold by Artcurial in Paris on February 9, lot 87. Here is the link to the press release.
There is no authentic raw 250 P in existence. The other two cars converted in 1964 are maintained in the 330 P configuration and the only unmodified car was severely damaged in 1966.
This model had however an important continuation when Ferrari transformed it into the 250 LM berlinetta, introduced at the Paris Motor Show in November 1963. This filiation confirms that Ferrari's request to homologate the 250 LM in the GT category by similarity with the 250 GT was not relevant.
1963 the last 250 GT swb
2016 unsold
The 250 GT berlinetta matches the usual strategy of Ferrari to offer to their customers increasingly powerful and stable sports cars in closed bodies. For this reason, this model is much less rare that the California Spyder built on the same chassis, LWB and, from 1959, SWB.
This berlinetta is also suited for competition. The LWB received the nickname Tour de France in recognition of its spectacular participation in this event. 84 TdF were built.
Even more effective than the LWB, the SWB berlinetta however never received a nickname. It won the same competitions as its predecessor and pleased its owners by its driving comfort and its compact look which is a masterpiece of balance by Pinin Farina. Much effort has also been made for its industrialization : 165 units of the 250 GT SWB were produced. The coachwork was made by Scaglietti.
The market changes and an original condition becomes as important as the scarcity. A SWB berlinetta made in 1960 was sold for £ 7.4 million including premium by H and H on 14 October 2015 despite a few small modifications.
The last car of this highly successful series was released from factory in January 1963. It was not used in competition in its early time and has not suffered a major accident or restoration. It is estimated € 9M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 5, lot 138. It is illustrated in the press release.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
This berlinetta is also suited for competition. The LWB received the nickname Tour de France in recognition of its spectacular participation in this event. 84 TdF were built.
Even more effective than the LWB, the SWB berlinetta however never received a nickname. It won the same competitions as its predecessor and pleased its owners by its driving comfort and its compact look which is a masterpiece of balance by Pinin Farina. Much effort has also been made for its industrialization : 165 units of the 250 GT SWB were produced. The coachwork was made by Scaglietti.
The market changes and an original condition becomes as important as the scarcity. A SWB berlinetta made in 1960 was sold for £ 7.4 million including premium by H and H on 14 October 2015 despite a few small modifications.
The last car of this highly successful series was released from factory in January 1963. It was not used in competition in its early time and has not suffered a major accident or restoration. It is estimated € 9M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 5, lot 138. It is illustrated in the press release.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
1964 Ferrari 250 LM chassis 5901
2023 unsold by Artcurial
The tenth 250 LM was delivered new to Luigi Chinetti in 1964 for the use of the NART team which used it as a back up car.
Never raced in period, it is still entirely original including its chassis, engine, gearbox an its body by Scaglietti.
It will be sold by Artcurial on February 3, 2023, lot 89. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Never raced in period, it is still entirely original including its chassis, engine, gearbox an its body by Scaglietti.
It will be sold by Artcurial on February 3, 2023, lot 89. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1965 Birth of a Ferrari
2017 SOLD for € 4.4M including premium
Enzo Ferrari is eager to win in all categories of competition. In 1965 the Formula 2 announced a volume increase to 1.6 liters, which will be applicable in 1967. The Ferrari Dino V6 engine is perfect to meet this new regulation.
The difficulty comes once again from the conditions of homologation, stipulating that a Formula 2 car must rely on a commercial use of the engine in 500 units. Ferrari decides Fiat to commit on a new model of sports car and entrusts the design of its Formula 2 to the Pininfarina company.
Sergio Pininfarina, son of the founder, develops a solution based on a central engine which is unprecedented for Ferrari. The Pininfarina company assembles on a competition chassis 206 P a unique prototype which is named the Dino Berlinetta Speciale.
The shape is superb according to the best practice of Pininfarina and the exhibition of this Ferrari-red concept car at the Paris Motor Show in October 1965 is well received. The new position of the engine is convincing and opens a range of models that has been uninterrupted for half a century from the Dino 206 GT up to the 488 GTB.
Gian-Battista Pininfarina, father of Sergio, dies in 1966. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest, organizer of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, wants to pay homage to him. Enzo Ferrari and Sergio Pininfarina present the berlinetta to the Musée Automobile du Mans. The museum has now decided to refocus its collections on pieces directly related to the 24 Hours. The Dino Berlinetta Speciale will be sold at no reserve on February 10 in Paris by Artcurial, lot 87.
This Speciale is a concept car. All the visible parts are present but the mechanical equipment have been replaced by artificial elements, probably just before its delivery to Le Mans. This masterpiece by Sergio Pininfarina and his team is an exhibition piece in great condition. It is estimated above € 4M.
The difficulty comes once again from the conditions of homologation, stipulating that a Formula 2 car must rely on a commercial use of the engine in 500 units. Ferrari decides Fiat to commit on a new model of sports car and entrusts the design of its Formula 2 to the Pininfarina company.
Sergio Pininfarina, son of the founder, develops a solution based on a central engine which is unprecedented for Ferrari. The Pininfarina company assembles on a competition chassis 206 P a unique prototype which is named the Dino Berlinetta Speciale.
The shape is superb according to the best practice of Pininfarina and the exhibition of this Ferrari-red concept car at the Paris Motor Show in October 1965 is well received. The new position of the engine is convincing and opens a range of models that has been uninterrupted for half a century from the Dino 206 GT up to the 488 GTB.
Gian-Battista Pininfarina, father of Sergio, dies in 1966. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest, organizer of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, wants to pay homage to him. Enzo Ferrari and Sergio Pininfarina present the berlinetta to the Musée Automobile du Mans. The museum has now decided to refocus its collections on pieces directly related to the 24 Hours. The Dino Berlinetta Speciale will be sold at no reserve on February 10 in Paris by Artcurial, lot 87.
This Speciale is a concept car. All the visible parts are present but the mechanical equipment have been replaced by artificial elements, probably just before its delivery to Le Mans. This masterpiece by Sergio Pininfarina and his team is an exhibition piece in great condition. It is estimated above € 4M.
1966 tre posti for luigi chinetti
2014 unsold
The Formula 1 cars benefit from the latest technological advances. In 1966 the novelty at Ferrari is the 365 P chassis equipped with a 12 cylinder 4.4-liter engine positioned between the axles.
Safety has become an important element for car brands. Enzo Ferrari feels that his new model is to be used by professional drivers only. However, with the connivance of Luigi Chinetti, Sergio Pininfarina designs for the road a 365 P Berlinetta Speciale, nicknamed Tre Posti.
The prototype is exhibited at the Salon de l'Auto in Paris in September 1966, before a large European tour. This car is amazing, with its central drive and the two lateral seats slightly behind the pilot's seat, and also with its roof in transparent glass.
It is probably the most expensive car of its time, delivered to Chinetti in September 1967. Chinetti was the dealer of the upscale Ferraris in the United States. The series of ten 275GTB / 4 NART Spider made to his order in 1967 is one of the wonders in the history of the automobile. Yet he always considered the Tre Posti as one of the greatest masterpieces at the point of purchasing it twice back from his own customers.
Too spectacular and too different from the usual driving practice, the Tre Posti is only 8000 km from new. It is for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 17, lot 123.
Despite the mediatic enthusiasm, only one customer was enticed by the Tre Posti. He also is famous in the world of automobile: Gianni Agnelli, head of FIAT. Made shortly after the prototype, this car is kept in a private collection.
The innovative three seats in a row of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale anticipate by nearly three decades the McLaren F1.
Safety has become an important element for car brands. Enzo Ferrari feels that his new model is to be used by professional drivers only. However, with the connivance of Luigi Chinetti, Sergio Pininfarina designs for the road a 365 P Berlinetta Speciale, nicknamed Tre Posti.
The prototype is exhibited at the Salon de l'Auto in Paris in September 1966, before a large European tour. This car is amazing, with its central drive and the two lateral seats slightly behind the pilot's seat, and also with its roof in transparent glass.
It is probably the most expensive car of its time, delivered to Chinetti in September 1967. Chinetti was the dealer of the upscale Ferraris in the United States. The series of ten 275GTB / 4 NART Spider made to his order in 1967 is one of the wonders in the history of the automobile. Yet he always considered the Tre Posti as one of the greatest masterpieces at the point of purchasing it twice back from his own customers.
Too spectacular and too different from the usual driving practice, the Tre Posti is only 8000 km from new. It is for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 17, lot 123.
Despite the mediatic enthusiasm, only one customer was enticed by the Tre Posti. He also is famous in the world of automobile: Gianni Agnelli, head of FIAT. Made shortly after the prototype, this car is kept in a private collection.
The innovative three seats in a row of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale anticipate by nearly three decades the McLaren F1.
1967 Ferrari 250 GTB/4
2015 SOLD for $ 3.9M including premium
In many ways, the Ferrari 275 is the follower to the 250 GT. It is a range of products with incremental improvements. The 275 was introduced in 1964 with a touring version which is the GTB and a sports version, the GTS. The bodies are designed by Pinin Farina and built by Scaglietti.
Released in October 1966, the 275 GTB/4 is the ultimate and most effective of the Ferrari berlinettas offered for a dual purpose of road and race.
It is equipped with a four-cam engine and other improvements that solve the issue of the disappointing top speed of the preceding variants. It reaches 100 km/h in less than six seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. It retains the longer nose introduced by Ferrari earlier in 1966 to prevent the lifting of the car at high speed.
From just under 300 vehicles made on this model, a 275 GTB/4 made in 1967r is one of the most original with only 16,000 km from new. Retaining its dark blue paint finish and beautifully preserved beige interior, it won the second prize in the Postwar Preservation class at the 2013 Concours d'Elegance of Pebble Beach.
It was sold for $ 3.9M by Gooding on August 15, 2015, lot 029. At that time, it had never been restored.
After a maintenance by Motion Products, it was sold for $ 3.5M by Gooding on March 3, 2023, lot 150. It is illustrated in 4th position in the press release. It is accompanied by books, original tools and an extensive early documentation.
Two special series based on the 275 are listed just below the 250 GTO as the most prestigious models of the brand : the 275 GTB Competizione Speciale or GTB/C is a works model for competition and the 275 GTB/4 NART Spyders were commissioned by Chinetti for the US market.
Released in October 1966, the 275 GTB/4 is the ultimate and most effective of the Ferrari berlinettas offered for a dual purpose of road and race.
It is equipped with a four-cam engine and other improvements that solve the issue of the disappointing top speed of the preceding variants. It reaches 100 km/h in less than six seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. It retains the longer nose introduced by Ferrari earlier in 1966 to prevent the lifting of the car at high speed.
From just under 300 vehicles made on this model, a 275 GTB/4 made in 1967r is one of the most original with only 16,000 km from new. Retaining its dark blue paint finish and beautifully preserved beige interior, it won the second prize in the Postwar Preservation class at the 2013 Concours d'Elegance of Pebble Beach.
It was sold for $ 3.9M by Gooding on August 15, 2015, lot 029. At that time, it had never been restored.
After a maintenance by Motion Products, it was sold for $ 3.5M by Gooding on March 3, 2023, lot 150. It is illustrated in 4th position in the press release. It is accompanied by books, original tools and an extensive early documentation.
Two special series based on the 275 are listed just below the 250 GTO as the most prestigious models of the brand : the 275 GTB Competizione Speciale or GTB/C is a works model for competition and the 275 GTB/4 NART Spyders were commissioned by Chinetti for the US market.
1967 The Ultimate Special Series by Ferrari
2016 SOLD for $ 3.4M including premium
The special series produced by Ferrari in the mid-1960s include the prettiest cars of all time, designed alternately by Pininfarina and Scaglietti. They also mark the end of a golden age. The rapid increase in production costs pushes to standardization and an industrial make is now unavoidable.
The models 275, 330 and 365 have replaced the 250. The latest Speciale are using these chassis. Alongside prototypes and concept cars, they have a target to try new ideas that can then be used in volume production.
In 1964, the 275 GTB/C Speciale is a berlinetta designed for the race testing of the new 3.3 liters engine. It is hand built by Scaglietti. Three units follow the prototype. One of them was sold for $ 26,4M including premium by RM on August 16, 2014.
In 1967, ten spiders are ordered by Chinetti for the American market. They are built by Scaglietti on the chassis 275 GTB/4. One of them was sold for $ 27,5M including premium by RM on 17 August 2013. Ferrari does not so much like the spiders and gives no further action after the delivery of that custom order which may be considered as a Speciale.
In the opposite, the 330 GTC Speciale coupe designed by Pininfarina is exhibited by Ferrari at the Brussels Motor Show in 1967. Only four cars are ordered by customers and hand built by Pininfarina. This highly rare car is a transitional model with a sloping nose that elongates the silhouette and an increased comfort including curved windows and air conditioning.
The third 330 GTC Speciale is estimated $ 3.4M for sale by Gooding at Scottsdale on January 30, lot 145. It is illustrated on page 2 of the article shared by Forbes.
The models 275, 330 and 365 have replaced the 250. The latest Speciale are using these chassis. Alongside prototypes and concept cars, they have a target to try new ideas that can then be used in volume production.
In 1964, the 275 GTB/C Speciale is a berlinetta designed for the race testing of the new 3.3 liters engine. It is hand built by Scaglietti. Three units follow the prototype. One of them was sold for $ 26,4M including premium by RM on August 16, 2014.
In 1967, ten spiders are ordered by Chinetti for the American market. They are built by Scaglietti on the chassis 275 GTB/4. One of them was sold for $ 27,5M including premium by RM on 17 August 2013. Ferrari does not so much like the spiders and gives no further action after the delivery of that custom order which may be considered as a Speciale.
In the opposite, the 330 GTC Speciale coupe designed by Pininfarina is exhibited by Ferrari at the Brussels Motor Show in 1967. Only four cars are ordered by customers and hand built by Pininfarina. This highly rare car is a transitional model with a sloping nose that elongates the silhouette and an increased comfort including curved windows and air conditioning.
The third 330 GTC Speciale is estimated $ 3.4M for sale by Gooding at Scottsdale on January 30, lot 145. It is illustrated on page 2 of the article shared by Forbes.
1968 a nart spider for europe
2016 unsold
Conceived on a demand by Luigi Chinetti, the Ferrari 275 GTS/4 NART Spider (or 275 GTB/*4S NART Spider) is targeting the same elegant clientele as the 250 GT California Spider created almost ten years earlier. The techniques have improved and the new spider is a masterpiece by Scaglietti.
The model starts well in 1967. The first car is driven in the following year by Faye Dunaway in The Thomas Crown Affair and admired without limit by one of the most knowledgeable fans, Steve McQueen.
The American market did not meet the expectations of Chinetti who had hoped to order 25 units. Not only this series was limited to 10 cars but the last of them did not even join the North American NART. Released from factory in 1968, it was sold to a Spanish customer.
This beautiful model raises the same fidelity as the 250 GTO and is much rarer. Both models almost never come to auction. The 8th spider, sold for $ 27,5M including premium by RM Auctions on August 17, 2013, had remained for 45 years in the care of its first owner.
The 10th and last car already discussed above has retained its original equipment and was repainted in dark metallic red in imitation of the screen appearance of the car used by Faye Dunaway. It is estimated € 19M for sale in Monaco on May 14 by RM Sotheby's, successor to RM Auctions, lot 254.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
The model starts well in 1967. The first car is driven in the following year by Faye Dunaway in The Thomas Crown Affair and admired without limit by one of the most knowledgeable fans, Steve McQueen.
The American market did not meet the expectations of Chinetti who had hoped to order 25 units. Not only this series was limited to 10 cars but the last of them did not even join the North American NART. Released from factory in 1968, it was sold to a Spanish customer.
This beautiful model raises the same fidelity as the 250 GTO and is much rarer. Both models almost never come to auction. The 8th spider, sold for $ 27,5M including premium by RM Auctions on August 17, 2013, had remained for 45 years in the care of its first owner.
The 10th and last car already discussed above has retained its original equipment and was repainted in dark metallic red in imitation of the screen appearance of the car used by Faye Dunaway. It is estimated € 19M for sale in Monaco on May 14 by RM Sotheby's, successor to RM Auctions, lot 254.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
1971 Speed at Sebring
2020 unsold
Kirk F. White was very active in 1971. He was a car dealer in Philadelphia, specializing in Ferraris. On May 1 he modernized car auctions with the tent format, which has remained the most common practice for these events to this day.
He also participates in competitions as a car owner. The Cannonball run is an illegal competition with no predefined route intended to protest against the speed limits on US roads. The fines are under the responsibility of the competitors. The first event, in November 1971 between New York and California, was won in less than 36 hours by a Ferrari 365 GTB/4 equipped with a Traco engine, on loan from White.
He also entered prototype racing with a Ferrari 512M but his results were poor and he opted for the GT class.
Ferrari no longer has a GT works team but was offering a competition version of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona since 1969 for challenging the Lamborghini Miura. White bought a normal 1971 365 GTB/4. To prepare for the 12 Hours of Sebring's in 1972, he has the Traco engine transferred to his new 365.
The demonstration at Sebring is conclusive but brief. The Daytona model had an overall reputation for being the fastest sports car of its time and White's car dominates the race for the first three hours. The Traco engine is too powerful for the original Ferrari bolts and the transmission breaks. After this failure, the car is returned by White and will no longer be entered in competition.
This Ferrari modified by a privateer is estimated $ 2.25M for sale online by RM Sotheby's on August 15, lot 246. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
He also participates in competitions as a car owner. The Cannonball run is an illegal competition with no predefined route intended to protest against the speed limits on US roads. The fines are under the responsibility of the competitors. The first event, in November 1971 between New York and California, was won in less than 36 hours by a Ferrari 365 GTB/4 equipped with a Traco engine, on loan from White.
He also entered prototype racing with a Ferrari 512M but his results were poor and he opted for the GT class.
Ferrari no longer has a GT works team but was offering a competition version of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona since 1969 for challenging the Lamborghini Miura. White bought a normal 1971 365 GTB/4. To prepare for the 12 Hours of Sebring's in 1972, he has the Traco engine transferred to his new 365.
The demonstration at Sebring is conclusive but brief. The Daytona model had an overall reputation for being the fastest sports car of its time and White's car dominates the race for the first three hours. The Traco engine is too powerful for the original Ferrari bolts and the transmission breaks. After this failure, the car is returned by White and will no longer be entered in competition.
This Ferrari modified by a privateer is estimated $ 2.25M for sale online by RM Sotheby's on August 15, lot 246. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1985 Failed Appointment with Group B
2016 SOLD for $ 2.6M including premium
FIA regulations have been continuously modified in search of an impossible compromise between performance and risk. In 1982, the Group B restarts an earlier idea of competing cars designed over commercial units of Grand Touring category.
The rules in Group B request that 200 commercial cars are produced. Manufacturers can make design adjustments for race that are referred as Evolution.
Ferrari is interested but reminds the difficulties of homologation twenty years earlier for the 250 GTO and the 250 LM. No risk is taken against the Group B requirements. The introduction of the new model 288 begins in 1984 by the 200 road cars. To assess that their brand is the good guy, the new car is identified by Ferrari as GTO (Omologato).
The 288 GTO is a significant development, with a bodywork inspired by the 308 GTB and modernized by Pininfarina. It is lightweight, powerful and fast. Customers are appealed and the production is increased to 272. One of them is estimated $ 2.3M for sale by RM Sotheby's on March 12 in Amelia Island, lot 148. It had been in 1985 the first 288 GTO officially exported to Japan.
Everything is well excepted that the FIA gives up the Group B in 1986 after two fatal accidents. Launched in 5 units, the 288 GTO Evolution was not ready. None will compete. Two of these Evoluzione are modified to be used as prototypes for the F40. Unused in its original application, the 288 GTO has the great merit of opening the two decades of commercial success of the Ferrari supercars : F40, F50 and Enzo.
The rules in Group B request that 200 commercial cars are produced. Manufacturers can make design adjustments for race that are referred as Evolution.
Ferrari is interested but reminds the difficulties of homologation twenty years earlier for the 250 GTO and the 250 LM. No risk is taken against the Group B requirements. The introduction of the new model 288 begins in 1984 by the 200 road cars. To assess that their brand is the good guy, the new car is identified by Ferrari as GTO (Omologato).
The 288 GTO is a significant development, with a bodywork inspired by the 308 GTB and modernized by Pininfarina. It is lightweight, powerful and fast. Customers are appealed and the production is increased to 272. One of them is estimated $ 2.3M for sale by RM Sotheby's on March 12 in Amelia Island, lot 148. It had been in 1985 the first 288 GTO officially exported to Japan.
Everything is well excepted that the FIA gives up the Group B in 1986 after two fatal accidents. Launched in 5 units, the 288 GTO Evolution was not ready. None will compete. Two of these Evoluzione are modified to be used as prototypes for the F40. Unused in its original application, the 288 GTO has the great merit of opening the two decades of commercial success of the Ferrari supercars : F40, F50 and Enzo.
1990 F40
2023 SOLD for $ 3.1M by Gooding
An F40 built in 1990 in accordance with the US specification has been preserved as a time capsule despite seven private owners in its provenance list. In 2014 it was displayed in The Art of Ferrari exhibit held at Galleria Ferrari within the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park.
With 1,236 miles on the odometer, it is estimated $ 3M for sale by Gooding on March 2, 2023, lot 25.
With 1,236 miles on the odometer, it is estimated $ 3M for sale by Gooding on March 2, 2023, lot 25.
1996 Ferrari F50
2022 SOLD for $ 4.6M by Gooding
Ferrari went under control of Fiat at the passing of Enzo Ferrari in 1988. The production of the F40, which met a great commercial success in succession of the 288 GTO, is terminated in 1992. The new F130 project to focus all the technological advances of the brand on a single model is not ready.
The F40 was named after the 40th year of the Ferrari brand in 1987. The car from the F130 project will be the F50 but the competition is too fierce and Ferrari can not wait for its 50th year. The new model is launched in 1995.
The market has changed. Customers of the supercars desire to own vehicles of high prestige while ignoring fuel waste and speed limits thanks to a reduced mileage use. Ferrari understands that the F50 will not reach the performance of the McLaren and strictly limits its production to 349 units, compared with the 1315 units of the F40. The project of a F50 GT for the race is abandoned without comment.
The F50 is combining a lightweight chassis, a naturally aspirated 4.7 liter V-12 engine inspired from the 641 Formula 1 car and the two seater 333 SP, a six-speed manual gearbox, a body designed with wind tunnel testing by Pininfarina, a minimal cockpit inspired by Formula 1 and a removable hardtop. The top speed is 325 Km/h with 100 Km/h reached in 3.6 seconds.
That mechanical achievement is indeed a major link between the F40 and the Enzo and current collectors welcome it. In January 2016 Gooding sold the Shooshani collection. The 1995 F50 fetched $ 2.4M compared with $ 1.53M for the F40 and $ 2.86M for the Enzo.
An F50 completed in 1996 in the US configuration and titled 1995 was sold for $ 4.6M by Gooding on August 19, 2022, lot 50. This car offered with hardtop and original documentation was used by Mike Tyson at the height of his professional career.
On March 18, 2022, Artcurial sold an F50 from 1996 for € 4.2M, lot 162.
The F40 was named after the 40th year of the Ferrari brand in 1987. The car from the F130 project will be the F50 but the competition is too fierce and Ferrari can not wait for its 50th year. The new model is launched in 1995.
The market has changed. Customers of the supercars desire to own vehicles of high prestige while ignoring fuel waste and speed limits thanks to a reduced mileage use. Ferrari understands that the F50 will not reach the performance of the McLaren and strictly limits its production to 349 units, compared with the 1315 units of the F40. The project of a F50 GT for the race is abandoned without comment.
The F50 is combining a lightweight chassis, a naturally aspirated 4.7 liter V-12 engine inspired from the 641 Formula 1 car and the two seater 333 SP, a six-speed manual gearbox, a body designed with wind tunnel testing by Pininfarina, a minimal cockpit inspired by Formula 1 and a removable hardtop. The top speed is 325 Km/h with 100 Km/h reached in 3.6 seconds.
That mechanical achievement is indeed a major link between the F40 and the Enzo and current collectors welcome it. In January 2016 Gooding sold the Shooshani collection. The 1995 F50 fetched $ 2.4M compared with $ 1.53M for the F40 and $ 2.86M for the Enzo.
An F50 completed in 1996 in the US configuration and titled 1995 was sold for $ 4.6M by Gooding on August 19, 2022, lot 50. This car offered with hardtop and original documentation was used by Mike Tyson at the height of his professional career.
On March 18, 2022, Artcurial sold an F50 from 1996 for € 4.2M, lot 162.
2001 Prodrive in GT
2020 SOLD for $ 4.3M including premium
Created in 1997, the GT championship of the FIA at first manages to interest manufacturers : Mercedes, Chrysler, Porsche. It is divided into two classes of power, GT1 (upper) and GT2 (lower). In 1999 the manufacturers are ousted by new rules, leaving their place to preparers and privateers, and the GT1 is discontinued. The name GTS which is sometimes used leads to confusion with that former designation by Ferrari for its spiders.
In 2000, the promoter Care Racing Development (CRD) commissions the British company Prodrive to prepare Ferraris for GT competition. Ferrari is cooperating for the production in ten units of a Ferrari 550 GT1 Prodrive model based on a lightweight 550 Maranello, with a new 550 GTS chassis.
This project is successful. Built in 2001, the second GT1 Prodrive, entrusted since 2002 by CRD to BMS Scuderia Italia, accumulates wins in its class from 2003 to 2005, including a first place overall at the 24 hours of Spa in 2004 which indirectly marks the long-awaited return of Ferrari to victory in GT.
Remained to this day in the property of CRD and certified by Ferrari Classiche, this car is estimated $ 3.85M for sale online by RM Sotheby's on August 15, lot 240.
Prodrive, created in 1984, managed to become a major player in the automotive business and bought Aston Martin from Ford in 2007.
In 2000, the promoter Care Racing Development (CRD) commissions the British company Prodrive to prepare Ferraris for GT competition. Ferrari is cooperating for the production in ten units of a Ferrari 550 GT1 Prodrive model based on a lightweight 550 Maranello, with a new 550 GTS chassis.
This project is successful. Built in 2001, the second GT1 Prodrive, entrusted since 2002 by CRD to BMS Scuderia Italia, accumulates wins in its class from 2003 to 2005, including a first place overall at the 24 hours of Spa in 2004 which indirectly marks the long-awaited return of Ferrari to victory in GT.
Remained to this day in the property of CRD and certified by Ferrari Classiche, this car is estimated $ 3.85M for sale online by RM Sotheby's on August 15, lot 240.
Prodrive, created in 1984, managed to become a major player in the automotive business and bought Aston Martin from Ford in 2007.
2001 The Come Back of Ferrari to Endurance Racing
2014 SOLD 2.36 M$ including premium
The oil crisis in 1973 had a significant impact on motor racing. Indeed the top endurance races like Le Mans, Monza, Daytona, Sebring were maintained, but new rules limiting the power reduced their prestige. The Porsche 917/30 from 1973 will have no competitors to remain the best racing car of the twentieth century.
Formula 1 is not affected by such changes. It will now appeal most of the prestige of car racing. After the 1973 season, Ferrari retired from competition in the categories of touring and endurance.
This decision was sustained. After twenty years of absence, Ferrari comes back in the category of prototypes in 1994 with the 333 SP. This model benefits from the technical progress of Formula 1 with something else in common: the cars are not qualified for routine use.
Two Ferrari 333 SP are available in the Californian auctions, both on August 16.
In Monterey, RM Auctions sells the most successful in terms of sporting records, lot 229. Made in late 1997, it immediately won its first two races, the 24 Hours of Daytona in January 1998 and the 12 Hours of Sebring two months later. For each of these two events, it is the last victorious Ferrari.
At Pebble Beach, Gooding sells the fortieth and final 333 SP, manufactured in 2001. Never used in competition, this Ferrari remains in the condition of a time capsule. It is estimated $ 1.75M, lot 58.
POST SALE COMMENTS
1
Gooding sold for $ 2.36M including premium the 2001 time capsule.
2
At RM, the bidding of $ 3.4M was below the reserve. Unsold.
Formula 1 is not affected by such changes. It will now appeal most of the prestige of car racing. After the 1973 season, Ferrari retired from competition in the categories of touring and endurance.
This decision was sustained. After twenty years of absence, Ferrari comes back in the category of prototypes in 1994 with the 333 SP. This model benefits from the technical progress of Formula 1 with something else in common: the cars are not qualified for routine use.
Two Ferrari 333 SP are available in the Californian auctions, both on August 16.
In Monterey, RM Auctions sells the most successful in terms of sporting records, lot 229. Made in late 1997, it immediately won its first two races, the 24 Hours of Daytona in January 1998 and the 12 Hours of Sebring two months later. For each of these two events, it is the last victorious Ferrari.
At Pebble Beach, Gooding sells the fortieth and final 333 SP, manufactured in 2001. Never used in competition, this Ferrari remains in the condition of a time capsule. It is estimated $ 1.75M, lot 58.
POST SALE COMMENTS
1
Gooding sold for $ 2.36M including premium the 2001 time capsule.
2
At RM, the bidding of $ 3.4M was below the reserve. Unsold.
2006 Ferrari's Bella Machina
2011 SOLD 2.1 M$ including premium
Ferrari's domination in the market for sports cars has lasted over half a century, and is not about to stop. I take as evidence the remarkable FXX program.
The Ferrari FXX is the most advanced car in the world in its category. It was designed in 2005 with the participation of its future clients including Michael Schumacher, and thus contributes to technological development of the brand. 30 cars were manufactured. In 2008, Ferrari added an Evoluzione Kit for upgrading these vehicles with newer equipment.
The cars just out of production, as also the watches, do not exceed their former commercial price when sold at auction.
Thus, in August 2010 in Monterey, RM Auctions had estimated $ 1.8 million a Ferrari FXX Evoluzione. It met the expectations, reaching $ 1.925 million including premium.
On January 21 in Scottsdale, Gooding sells another one, ex factory in 2006 and which also has the Evoluzione Kit. It is estimated $ 2.2 M. It is the star lot of the estate of its first owner, a businessman who had assembled a fine collection of contemporary Ferraris.
The eleven cars from this source are presented and illustrated chronologically in the blog page shared by Autopia.
POST SALE COMMENT
The price was predictable, as always for the most recent pieces: $ 1.9 million before fees, $ 2.1 million including premium.
The Ferrari FXX is the most advanced car in the world in its category. It was designed in 2005 with the participation of its future clients including Michael Schumacher, and thus contributes to technological development of the brand. 30 cars were manufactured. In 2008, Ferrari added an Evoluzione Kit for upgrading these vehicles with newer equipment.
The cars just out of production, as also the watches, do not exceed their former commercial price when sold at auction.
Thus, in August 2010 in Monterey, RM Auctions had estimated $ 1.8 million a Ferrari FXX Evoluzione. It met the expectations, reaching $ 1.925 million including premium.
On January 21 in Scottsdale, Gooding sells another one, ex factory in 2006 and which also has the Evoluzione Kit. It is estimated $ 2.2 M. It is the star lot of the estate of its first owner, a businessman who had assembled a fine collection of contemporary Ferraris.
The eleven cars from this source are presented and illustrated chronologically in the blog page shared by Autopia.
POST SALE COMMENT
The price was predictable, as always for the most recent pieces: $ 1.9 million before fees, $ 2.1 million including premium.
2011-2013 Secret Supercars
2019 unsold
Since the 2000s decade, billionaires like to populate their garage with the most spectacular supercars. They use them very little : these cars serve their self-satisfaction. Such a practice has encouraged the production of very limited series and then also of one-off.
The chassis and the equipment contributing to safety and homologation are not modified. Pininfarina and Fioravanti had begun to equip Ferrari chassis without authorization. In 2008 a Japanese customer prefers a cooperation involving the brand. Ferrari creates a Special Projects division, with a network of subcontractors for the bodywork.
With this winning strategy, Ferrari controls this new market. The customer chooses on the drawings the characteristics of his custom car. The development capacity estimated at three projects per year is notoriously lower than the current demand. Some prices at delivery have been disclosed or estimated. None is lower than $ 3M.
The client often prefers to keep the secret. Some Special Projects were unveiled, such as the Ferrari SP12 delivered to Eric Clapton in 2012, or the PS40 Superfast Aperta delivered in 2009 which anticipates the availability of open bodies for high prestige. The Ferrari Sergio, designed in 2013 by Pininfarina on a 458 and built in 2014 in 6 units, is another continuation of the developments made by this department.
Customers jealously guard their Special Project cars. After several months of close cooperation with Ferrari, it's as if the car was part of their privacy. The SP30 is the first Special coming at auction. It will be sold in Paris by RM Sotheby's on February 6, lot 185.
Titled 2011, the SP30 was delivered around 2013 to a South Asian entrepreneur operating in Dubai. This demanding client had refused twelve drawings before taking within this set the options that best met his wishes. His one-of-a-kind car is based on the 599 GTO and the 599 XX while incorporating some similarities with the F12tdf that was in development at the same time. In an as new condition, it shows less than 110 km on the odometer.
The chassis and the equipment contributing to safety and homologation are not modified. Pininfarina and Fioravanti had begun to equip Ferrari chassis without authorization. In 2008 a Japanese customer prefers a cooperation involving the brand. Ferrari creates a Special Projects division, with a network of subcontractors for the bodywork.
With this winning strategy, Ferrari controls this new market. The customer chooses on the drawings the characteristics of his custom car. The development capacity estimated at three projects per year is notoriously lower than the current demand. Some prices at delivery have been disclosed or estimated. None is lower than $ 3M.
The client often prefers to keep the secret. Some Special Projects were unveiled, such as the Ferrari SP12 delivered to Eric Clapton in 2012, or the PS40 Superfast Aperta delivered in 2009 which anticipates the availability of open bodies for high prestige. The Ferrari Sergio, designed in 2013 by Pininfarina on a 458 and built in 2014 in 6 units, is another continuation of the developments made by this department.
Customers jealously guard their Special Project cars. After several months of close cooperation with Ferrari, it's as if the car was part of their privacy. The SP30 is the first Special coming at auction. It will be sold in Paris by RM Sotheby's on February 6, lot 185.
Titled 2011, the SP30 was delivered around 2013 to a South Asian entrepreneur operating in Dubai. This demanding client had refused twelve drawings before taking within this set the options that best met his wishes. His one-of-a-kind car is based on the 599 GTO and the 599 XX while incorporating some similarities with the F12tdf that was in development at the same time. In an as new condition, it shows less than 110 km on the odometer.
2015 The Third Generation of Pininfarina
2018 unsold
Until the 1960s the limited series of top performance cars made the delight of Ferrari's most demanding customers. By creating a division for Special Projects in 2007, Ferrari is modernizing this tradition.
Pininfarina remained one of Ferrari's most valued subcontractors. Battista died in 1966. His son Sergio retires in 2001. After the accidental death of Sergio's eldest son, the second son manages the company.
Sergio Pininfarina dies in 2012. The Ferrari Sergio concept car pays tribute to him in the following year at the Geneva Motor Show. It was built on a Ferrari 458 chassis with a body designed and built by Carrozzeria Pininfarina in the taste of Sergio, with a new search in the purity of lines.
In 2014 Ferrari launches the production of six units of the Sergio after making the required modifications for road homologation. As usual for limited series, the brand chooses its customers. At the same time Ferrari abandons the atmospheric engine in favor of the turbo engine. The Sergio thus appears as the ultimate culmination of Ferrari's atmospheric V8 engine.
The first of the six commercial Sergios is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2015. With less than 200 km from new, it is estimated € 2.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monaco on May 12, lot 145.
Pininfarina remained one of Ferrari's most valued subcontractors. Battista died in 1966. His son Sergio retires in 2001. After the accidental death of Sergio's eldest son, the second son manages the company.
Sergio Pininfarina dies in 2012. The Ferrari Sergio concept car pays tribute to him in the following year at the Geneva Motor Show. It was built on a Ferrari 458 chassis with a body designed and built by Carrozzeria Pininfarina in the taste of Sergio, with a new search in the purity of lines.
In 2014 Ferrari launches the production of six units of the Sergio after making the required modifications for road homologation. As usual for limited series, the brand chooses its customers. At the same time Ferrari abandons the atmospheric engine in favor of the turbo engine. The Sergio thus appears as the ultimate culmination of Ferrari's atmospheric V8 engine.
The first of the six commercial Sergios is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2015. With less than 200 km from new, it is estimated € 2.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monaco on May 12, lot 145.
