Lot 124: 1963 Ferrari 250 GTE

The Ferrari 250 GT was born in 1954 and for ten years it continued to undergo improvements that were above all dictated by racing experience. 1960 saw the introduction of the 2+2 GTE, forerunner of the 4-seater Ferraris. It had more room than the other versions, and yet it was a fast sports car in its own right; 240bhp translated into a top speed of almost 150mph, with acceleration to match. As in most Ferraris, the engine was the centrepiece; the V12 designed by Colombo was delightfully responsive and made all the right sounds. Interestingly, in 1962 the price of the 250-GTE, at L.5,500,000 was the same as that of the 250 SWB Berlinetta and the 250 SWB California Spyder; the two more expensive models were the 250 Pininfarina Cabriolet at L.5,800,000 and the 400 Superamerica at L.10,500,000! Despite Ferrari's initial reservations that the public might react unfavourably to a four seater Gran Turismo, the model met with immediate success and soon represented 60% of all Ferrari road car sales. Production ceased late in 1963, by which time 950 cars had been built. The GTE is today admired as a classical example of the great 250 series which can nonetheless accommodate four people and be used on a regular basis, and is thus well-suited to Continental touring. This being said, however, a number of GTEs are in fact actively campaigned on the tracks of Europe in a variety of historic events. This particular car, chassis 03355 is finished in 'rosso corsa' with contrasting beige leather interior is one of a few examples of the model originally sold in this colour. It has been the recipient of a ground up restoration carried out by Maranello based Ferrari specialists over a period of two years. The mechanical work was entrusted to "Officina Toni" renowned for their mechanical rebuilds whilst the interior was retrimmed by the Lupi brothers and the body restored by "Officina Sauro". Since the restoration work the car has covered a mere 4000 kilometres and more recently the car has been the subject of further significant remedial work at Officina Toni where a comprehensive service was carried out and car was fitted with 4 new Borrani wire wheels, tyres and shock absorbers. The car has been certified "ASI Targa Oro" the highest possible grade awarded by the historic Italian motoring body. It is indeed rare to find a Ferrari 250 GTE restored to this standard and with the recent upsurge in prices of other Ferrari 250 models this immaculately presented example presents an excellent opportunity for investment and fun!