A pristine **1962 Ferrari 250 GTO**, featuring its original and rare “Special White” paint, is poised to make waves at the upcoming Mecum Auctions in **Kissimmee, Florida**, from **January 6 to 18, 2024**. With an estimated value potentially exceeding **$70 million** (approximately **€60 million**), this car represents not only an automotive masterpiece but also a significant piece of racing history.
The Allure of the 250 GTO
The **Ferrari 250 GTO** is often regarded as the pinnacle of automotive engineering, with only **39 units** produced between **1962 and 1964**. Designed explicitly for the **International GT Championship**, it seamlessly blends advanced aerodynamics with Ferrari’s legendary mechanics. Under its sleek aluminum hood lies the **V-12 Type 168/62 Comp engine**, boasting a displacement of **3.0 liters** and generating around **300 horsepower**. When paired with a five-speed manual transmission, this configuration offered exceptional performance and endurance for long-distance racing.
What sets chassis number **3729GT** apart is its unique delivery specification. It remains the **only Ferrari 250 GTO** to have been painted in white, a choice made by the car’s first owner, British racing connoisseur **John Coombs**. Coombs incorporated several functional modifications that still exist today, including hood slots and a third air intake on the fender, reinforcing the car’s racing pedigree rather than positioning it as a static display.
A Legacy of Racing Excellence
Throughout its racing career, the **Ferrari 250 GTO** made a significant mark on the motorsport scene. It achieved numerous victories, including a class win and multiple second-place finishes across prominent British and European circuits. Notable drivers such as **Graham Hill**, **Jack Sears**, **Mike Parkes**, **Roy Salvadori**, and **Richie Ginther** have all taken the wheel, contributing to its storied legacy.
In both **1962 and 1963**, the car finished second overall at the **RAC Tourist Trophy** held at **Goodwood**, a critical race for the **FIA GT Championship**. Its advanced engineering was so impressive that the vehicle was loaned to the **Jaguar racing department** for comparative testing, which confirmed its superiority over the competition, particularly the **E-Type**.
After its illustrious racing career, the **250 GTO** changed hands several times. One of its most notable owners was **Jack Sears**, who maintained it for nearly **30 years**. Since **1999**, it has belonged to the **Jon Shirley Collection**, where it has been meticulously preserved in its original condition. The car has been showcased at prestigious events, including the **Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance** and the **Goodwood Revival**.
Maintained rather than restored, the vehicle retains a remarkable level of originality, as certified by the **Ferrari Classiche Red Book**. This authenticity, combined with its rich history, significantly contributes to its projected auction value. While the exact selling price has not been officially disclosed by Mecum Auctions, experts suggest that it could approach **$70 million**, reflecting the car’s unique attributes and legacy.
As the auction date approaches, collectors and enthusiasts alike are eager to witness the potential sale of this extraordinary piece of automotive history.
