This One-of-a-Kind Ferrari 250 GTO Could Fetch $70 Million at Auction
A flawlessly preserved 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, showing no signs of restoration, is heading to auction. Naturally, it’s far from ordinary in value, with estimates suggesting it could surpass $70 million (€60 million) at Mecum Auctions taking place in Kissimmee, Florida, from January 6 to 18.
The reason behind such a staggering price? This particular car, carrying chassis number 3729GT, is adorned with Ferrari’s exceptionally rare “Special White” paint. Beyond its unique color, it boasts an illustrious racing pedigree and remains in impeccable original condition.
Legacy of the 250 GTO
The Ferrari 250 GTO is widely regarded as one of the most iconic Ferraris ever made. Manufactured in fewer than 40 units between 1962 and 1964, it was engineered explicitly for the International GT Championship, featuring advanced aerodynamics paired with Ferrari’s legendary mechanical design.
Powering the car is a 3.0-liter V-12 Type 168/62 Comp engine beneath the sleek aluminum hood, designed by Ferrari and crafted by Scaglietti. Delivering around 300 horsepower and coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox, this setup provided extraordinary speed and endurance for endurance racing.
The V-12 engine of the Ferrari 250 GTO
What sets chassis 3729GT apart is its exclusive configuration. It is the only 250 GTO ever delivered new in white, a choice made by its first owner, British racing enthusiast John Coombs, who was a respected team owner and motorsport expert.
Coombs implemented practical racing modifications that remain today, including hood vents, an additional air intake on the fender, and a ventilation duct routed through a front headlight—features emphasizing its use on the track rather than as a static exhibit.
Distinguished Drivers and Ownership
This Ferrari Special White enjoyed an impressive racing career, securing class wins and multiple runner-up finishes across major British and European race circuits. It was driven by celebrated racers such as Graham Hill, Jack Sears, Mike Parkes, Roy Salvadori, and Richie Ginther.
Interior view of the Ferrari 250 GTO
In 1962 and 1963, the car earned second place overall at the RAC Tourist Trophy at Goodwood, an event counting towards the FIA GT Championship, significantly contributing to Ferrari’s world titles. Its advanced engineering was so respected that Jaguar’s racing team borrowed it for comparison tests, which confirmed its superiority over the Jaguar E-Type.
Following its racing days, the car passed through several prominent owners, including Jack Sears, who held it for nearly three decades. Since 1999, it has been part of the Jon Shirley Collection.
During this period, the car was restored to its original white color and consistently showcased at elite events such as Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the Cavallino Classic, and the Goodwood Revival. It has never undergone invasive restoration but has been carefully maintained and repaired when needed, preserving an extraordinary level of originality officially documented in the Ferrari Classiche Red Book.
The car’s rich history and rarity heavily influence its estimated value. Although Mecum Auctions has not publicly confirmed a reserve price, industry experts anticipate the final sale could approach the $70 million mark.
Source: Mecum Auctions
