With just 36 variations produced, each boasting its own remarkable history, the Ferrari 250 GTO has long been considered the pinnacle of collector cars. However, you need not search through a logbook or vintage magazines to discover what makes chassis 3729 GT distinctive. It is the sole 250 GTO to depart the factory in white, a feature that is sure to captivate attention when it goes to auction at Mecum Auctions’ Kissimmee, Florida, event on January 17.
Known as “Bianco Speciale” (“white special” in Italian), 3729 GT was commissioned by British racing team leader John Coombs in 1962. A devoted Jaguar supporter, Coombs hoped the GTO would persuade Jaguar’s management to enhance the competitiveness of their E-Type, according to Mecum. The reason behind his choice for white paint remains unclear, but the request likely stirred some discontent in Maranello—red being the standard color for racing cars at the time. Coombs’ prominence and the influence of Alfredo Reali, who facilitated special orders through production, guaranteed the car’s departure from the factory in its distinctive hue.
Bianco Speciale made its competitive debut on August 6, 1962, in the Peco Trophy at Brands Hatch in England. It was driven to a second-place finish overall by Roy Salvadori. A few weeks later, Graham Hill achieved the same result in the RAC Tourist Trophy at Goodwood. Coombs subsequently loaned the Ferrari to Jaguar’s engineering team for analysis. Insights gained reportedly impacted the development of the Lightweight E-Type racer.
The white GTO returned to competitive racing in 1963, claiming a GT-class victory (and finishing fifth overall) in the Guards Trophy at Brands Hatch, driven by Jack Sears. He later referred to this race as a test drive since he would purchase Bianco Speciale in 1970. Sears eventually sold the GTO to former Microsoft president John Shirley in 1999. A “refresh” took place then, but Mecum states that the car has never undergone a complete restoration and remains mostly in its original state. Its authenticity is validated by a Ferrari Classiche Red Book issued in 2008.
With the GTO, Ferrari pioneered the modern homologation special. Those initials are famously known to mean “gran turismo omologato” or “grand touring homologation” in Italian, indicating the streamlined aluminum bodywork and other race-ready alterations Ferrari integrated around the chassis and 3.0-liter Colombo V12 engine of its 250 GT models. The stunning design and racing legacy of the GTO embody Ferrari at its zenith, which is why collectors are willing to pay tens of millions when they appear on the market.
**Exclusive White Ferrari 250 GTO Set for Auction**
The Ferrari 250 GTO stands as one of the most iconic and desired sports cars in automotive history, celebrated for its remarkable design, racing history, and limited production. Among the 39 examples manufactured between 1962 and 1964, a one-of-a-kind white Ferrari 250 GTO is poised to steal the spotlight at auction, promising to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
**A Brief Overview of the Ferrari 250 GTO**
Unveiled in 1962, the Ferrari 250 GTO was crafted by Giotto Bizzarrini and designed for racing, specifically to excel in the FIA’s Group 3 Grand Touring Car category. Powered by a 3.0-liter V12 engine that produces approximately 300 horsepower, it achieves exceptional speeds and performs excellently on the racetrack. The 250 GTO quickly established its dominance, clinching numerous victories and championships throughout its production years.
**The Exceptional White Variant**
While most 250 GTOs were painted in the classic Ferrari red, this specific model is distinguished by its rare white finish. This unique color selection not only enhances its visual allure but also contributes to its mystique and exclusivity. Its provenance is equally remarkable, having been in the hands of notable collectors and showcased at prestigious events, thereby reinforcing its esteemed status in the automotive realm.
**Auction Information**
The auction is scheduled to occur at a prominent auction house, where experts believe that the unique white Ferrari 250 GTO may achieve a record-setting price. Previous sales of 250 GTOs have exceeded $48 million, and considering the rarity and unique color of this model, it is expected to surpass those amounts. Bidders will comprise high-profile collectors, automotive enthusiasts, and investors aiming to acquire a piece of automotive heritage.
**Importance in the Collector Car Market**
The Ferrari 250 GTO is often described as the holy grail of collector cars, not only for its performance and design but also for its investment viability. The scarcity of the model, alongside its racing pedigree and cultural significance, makes it an incredibly sought-after asset. The imminent auction of this rare white variant is expected to rekindle interest in the 250 GTO and in the classic car market as a whole.
**Final Thoughts**
The auction of the unique white Ferrari 250 GTO signifies a notable event within the automotive and collector car communities. As enthusiasts and collectors gear up to bid on this extraordinary vehicle, the excitement surrounding its sale highlights the enduring legacy of the Ferrari 250 GTO and its significance in automotive history. Whether it garners a record price or not, this auction is destined to be a milestone moment for car collectors and fans worldwide.