Lot 194 - 1958 Ferrari 250GT Pininfarina Coupé Series I
| Lot Number | 194 |
| Registration | 250 LNO |
| Chassis Number | 1479GT |
| Engine Number | 1479GT |
| Odometer reading | 88,141 km |
| Estimate | £360,000 - £410,000 |
- Fully restored example
- Supported by a wonderful history file
- Matching numbers, sixth last of the run
By the early 1960s, road car production had ceased to be a sideline for Ferrari and was seen as vitally important to the company's future stability. Thus the 250, Ferrari's first volume produced model, can be seen as critically important, though production of the first of the line - the 250 Europa, built from 1953 to '54 - amounted to fewer than twenty. The 250 Europa's introduction heralded a significant change in Ferrari's preferred coachbuilder; whereas previously Vignale had been the most popular among Maranello's customers, from now on Pinin Farina (later Pininfarina) would be Ferrari's number one choice. True series production began with the arrival of Pininfarina's 'notchback' Coupé on the 250GT chassis, 350 of which were built between 1958 and 1960 within the sequence '0841' to '2081'. However, the relatively small scale of production meant that cars could still be ordered with subtle variations according to customer choice, as well as enabling a handful of show cars and 'specials' to be constructed on the 250GT chassis.
A number of important developments occurred during 250GT production; the original Colombo-designed Tipo 128C 3.0 litre engine being superseded by the twin distributor 128D, which in turn was supplanted in 1960 by the outside plug 128F engine which did away with its predecessor's siamesed inlets in favour of six separate ports. Developed from the 1.5 litre unit that powered Ferrari's first ever sports car - the Tipo 125C - this supremely versatile engine proved equally at home on both road and track, effectively establishing the worldwide reputation of the marque.
On the chassis side, four-wheel disc brakes arrived late in 1959 and a four-speed plus overdrive gearbox the following year. More refined and practical than any previous road-going Ferrari, yet retaining the sporting heritage of its predecessors, the 250GT is a landmark model of immense historical significance.
Historics are privileged to offer this very late 250 Pininfarina Coupé Series 1, the sixth last of the run of these achingly beautiful cars. It is currently presented in Blu Nart, with Beige Connolly hide throughout. This particular example displays many of the original features, such as Lucas electronics, specially ordered for a UK Market vehicle, along with a six blade cooling fan more commonly found in the racing variants. Our car was also ordered with the optional front bonnet scoop; again very rare on this model. Restored to a high standard, this example is privately owned and cared for by a prominent UK collector. Beautifully presented and supported by a well detailed history file, this elegant V12 powered Ferrari is one of the most iconic examples to come from the pen of Pininfarina and, as such, viewing is highly recommended.
Interested parties should note that the private registration plate shown is to be retained by the vendor and a new, age-related registration issued instead.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.