Record sale of 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: masterpiece for $51.7 million

In the realm of classic cars, few vehicles are as surprising as the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. Considered a masterpiece of automotive design and engineering, this iconic sports car recently sold for $51.7 million.

Introduced in 1962, the Ferrari 250 GTO is a rarity in the automotive world both in terms of performance and exclusivity. The number 250 in the name of the car shows the volume of each cylinder of the engine in cubic centimeters, and the second part of the name is an abbreviation of the Italian "Gran Turismo Omologata", which translates as "car allowed to race."

As for the lot sold at Sotheby's auction, this particular car finished second in the 1,000 kilometer race at the Nürburgring and participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, in the last race he had to retire due to engine failure.

The 250 GTO was designed to dominate the track and its success is a testament to its engineering prowess. A car with a 3765 chassis and a 390-horsepower four-liter engine, the aerodynamic design, highlighted by a distinctive long hood and raised fenders, not only enhanced its performance, but also contributed to its timeless aesthetic appeal.

While the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was certainly an automotive marvel, its scarcity is a key factor in its astronomical value. The total number of cars of this model was 39 units.

Despite the fact that the estimated price expected by the auctioneers exceeded $60 million, the car fetched somewhat less. However, this did not prevent him from becoming the second most expensive in history. The first place belongs to the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, which was sold in 2022 for €135 million.

Source: rmsothebys.com