From the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta SWB to the Ferrari 250 GTO through the Ferrari 250 Europa: the ‘250’ family from Ferrari is considered one of the best combinations of sportiness and elegance. Today the protagonist is Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet, a copy that has been forgotten in a barn for years and will only come out of it if someone pays (at least) 1.2 million euros.
They say that the Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet is as elegant as it is fun to drive. Designed by Pininfarina In an exercise in balance and majesty, this unit might be the last one left unrestored. It is number 152 of the 200 units belonging to the second edition that left Maranello: after a first production of 40 cars a new series arrived and in order not to harm the Ferrari 250 GT California Spider, the Italians differentiated it with a more sober bodywork, a larger trunk and a more comfortable interior.
The Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet is special because, in addition, it is considered as the first production convertible of the Italian house. In the late 1950s, folding soft-top cabrios were only produced in relatively small numbers: they were often specific customer requests or styling exercises that brands carried out with salons in mind. Until the Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet arrived, precisely, at the Paris Motor Show.
It’s still working
Its chassis number, 3051, reveals that left the factory on November 25, 1961 and its history is documented with the official documentation: it was acquired, first of all, by an Italian businessman from Milan. After ten years in Italy, in 1971, a year after it changed hands, it was exported to the United States and has remained there until now.
Not only do the engine or chassis numbers match, but also the body numbers: this means that it is the original… although it is obvious that it needs restoration. The ‘Blu Scuro’ (dark blue) paint is gone, but the ‘Rosso’ (red) leather upholstery has survived. It is in relatively good condition and includes an extra set of Borrani rims, bumper replacements and a partial tool kit. And the most interesting thing: its engine, a V12 3.0 with 236 CV, continues to work. Of course, after spending so much time abandoned in a barn, it will be necessary to review it thoroughly.
Gullwing Motor Cars has put it up for sale in the United States: the starting price is $1,275,000 (1.19 million euros). A surprising amount because It does not stray too far from those that have come to ask for units of the Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Pininfarina in excellent condition.
Images: Gullwing Motor Cars
