Up for sale is a perfectly maintained and completely unrestored 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. However, as one might expect, this Honda Civic doesn’t exactly command the money. The star at the Macum auction in Florida, from January 6 to 18, could exceed 70 million ($60 million).
Why so much? This particular car – chassis number 3729GT – sees Ferrari’s rare “Special White” paint. This is a unique model, not only because of its paint job, but also for its significant racing history and its pristine condition.
History
The 250 GTO is considered by many to be the ultimate Ferrari. Produced in just under 40 units between 1962 and 1964, it was created specifically for the International GT Championship, combining improved aerodynamics with already legendary mechanics.
Under the tall aluminum hood is a Ferrari-designed and produced by Scaglietti that houses a V-12 Type 168/62 COMP engine with a displacement of 3.0 liters, capable of approximately 300 horsepower. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, this engine ensured exceptional performance for the time, along with significant endurance on long-distance runs.
12 cylinder engine of Ferrari 250 GTO
Photo by: Ferrari
What makes the 3729GT chassis truly unique is its construction. This is the only Ferrari 250 GTO delivered new in white, a choice made by its first owner, Briton John Coombs, a well-known team owner and well-known racing world expert.
Combs introduced some functional modifications that still exist, such as hood slots, a third air intake on the fenders, and a cabin ventilation duct connected to a front headlight. Works that indicate real racing use rather than a museum piece.
Notable Owners
The car boasts a high level racing record. The Ferrari Special White competed on the major British and European circuits, taking class victories and numerous other places. It was driven by drivers such as Graham Hill, Jack Sears, Mike Parks, Roy Salvadori, and Richie Guenther.
Ferrari 250 GTO, interior
Photo by: Ferrari
In 1962 and 1963, it finished second overall in the RAC Tourist Trophy at Goodwood, qualifying for the FIAGT Championship, which directly contributed to Ferrari’s world title. It was so advanced that it was even loaned to the Jaguar Racing Department for comparative tests, which revealed clear superiority over the E-Type.
After its racing career, the car saw several notable owners, including Jack Sears himself, who owned it for nearly thirty years. Since 1999, it has been part of the John Shirley Collection.
During this time, it was returned to its original white livery and was regularly used in prestigious events such as the Pebble Beach Coeur d’Elegance, the Cavalino Classic, and the Goodwood Revival. Never haphazardly restored when necessary, but rather maintained, repaired and improved, it retains an exceptional level of originality certified by the Ferrari Classics Red Book.
And it is this exact date that contributes to the estimated price of this 250 GTO. Although not officially disclosed by the US auction house, according to experts, it could be sold for a figure close to $70 million.
