Lot 586: 1965 Ferrari 330GT/250GTO Replica

This wonderful re-creation of the legendary 250GTO is based on (and registered as) a 1965 Ferrari 330GT, an original, matching numbers, right-hand drive example that was sourced by the vendor in 1983. The aim was to create an accurate copy of the only right-hand drive, 4.0-litre, five-speed 250GTO as built for Le Mans.
The chassis was sent to Italy where it was shortened, rebuilt to GTO specification and then galvanised, while the aluminium body was similarly hand made in Italy before being sent to Moto Technique, where Kevin O'Rourke and his team mounted it on to chassis. The car was completed in 1993 and entered its first race with Gary Pearson at the wheel. Highlights of its specification include a Bob Houghton dry sump lubrication system; DK engineering pedal box assembly; and inlet manifolds, aluminium fuel/oil tanks and a stainless-steel exhaust system from Ferrari-specialist Terry Hoyle. The engine incorporates GTO camshafts, roller rockers, high compression racing pistons, oversized stainless-steel valves and specialist head porting, while the six twin-choke down-draught carburettors were supplied by Weber and set up on their rolling road dynamometer where a maximum output of 315bhp was recorded at the wheels. Power is transmitted via a five-speed gearbox to an up-rated 250GTO-specification limited-slip differential, supplied by David Piper, who also provided the oversize pistons for the original-style Dunlop brakes. The Borrani wheels (7” front/8” rear) are shod with Dunlop racing tyres, while the competition suspension boasts up-rated springs, adjustable Koni dampers and anti-roll bars at front and rear.
Road registered ‘KPL 24C’ in the UK, the car is finished in red with black leather interior, the latter equipped with an original 250GTO 400mm steering wheel; racing harnesses; original-style gauges (plus speedometer); and FIA roll cage.
While in the vendor’s hands the ‘GTO’ has competed regularly in the ‘Pirelli Ferrari Formula Classic’ series, achieving a number of wins and podium finishes. In 2004 the car was awarded the ‘Coppa Nederland Trophy’ for the ‘best performance in competition by a pre-75 Ferrari’ and its winning ways continued the following year when it secured the ‘Stephen Langton Award’ for ‘best performance of a road going V12 Ferrari in Competition’. 2006 saw it gain 1st places at both Silverstone and Donington Park, two 2nd places at Brands Hatch and the ‘Bumbles Trophy’ for ‘best unmodified V12 Ferrari in competition’. In 2007 the car won its class at the Goodwood GRRC Spring sprint and was invited for display at that year’s Revival Meeting.
Well known Ferrari exponents Gary Pearson and Martin McGlone have both raced this car, which is reported as a joy to drive. Works Ferrari, Ford and Porsche driver David Piper, who had a hand in this car’s construction, has also driven the ‘GTO’, commenting that he wished that when he drove them in period they had been as well prepared and finely balanced as this one – praise indeed from the Le Mans veteran.
Fully prepared for racing, the car boasts a new fire extinguishing system, new harnesses and new Dunlop racing tyres, while the original 250GTO gearbox was rebuilt in 2006. Presented in generally excellent condition, the car comes with current road fund licence, Swansea V5 document and fresh MoT, and would be a welcome entry at 750 Motor Club, Intermarques, Pirelli Ferrari Formula Classic, David Piper South Africa, Classic Adelaide and many other prestigious sports car racing events.