Ferrari 250 GTO – The definitive history
As the fourth part of the Ultimate book series, Porter Press International from the UK is currently presenting what is probably the most complete historical reappraisal of the Ferrari 250 GTO. This racing sports car of the early 1960s is now one of the most expensive cars in the world. At auctions and private sales over the last decade, some examples have fetched up to 70 million euros. Originally, this model was simply Ferrari’s response to adapted regulations in the World Sports Car Championship. There the Italians competed against American and British designs. In addition to the factory team, smaller teams and private drivers also bought own GTOs. This led to many major racing successes, for example at the 12 Hours of Sebring, the 1000 kilometers of Spa-Francorchamps, the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the Targa Florio.
A total of 29 examples of the 250 GTO with the classic basic shape were built. In addition, three 330 GTOs with the same body design but a larger engine and three new 250 GTOs with a modified design were built for 1964. Four cars from 1962 and 1963 were retrofitted with Series II bodywork by the factory. In the two-volume, 632-page book by James Page, the complete development history, engineering and racing history are presented in words and pictures. Volume two shows each individual vehicle sorted by chassis number. The author presents the respective development up to the today’s condition on the basis of historical photographs. A limited edition of 750 copies of the normal book, ISBN 978-1-913089-02-3, is being produced at a price of £ 450. There is also a Collector’s Edition signed by racing drivers Peter Sutcliffe and David Piper, Ferrari expert Keith Bluemel and author James Page. This is available only 100 times at a price of £ 1,500 under ISBN 978-1-913089-30-6.
Images: Porter Press International
