Epic Day for Ferrari Enthusiasts as 1962 Model Sets Auction Record
Hold onto your helmets, car enthusiasts, because a 1962 Ferrari has marked history at an auction in the United States. The flawless Ferrari 330 LM/250 GTO went under the hammer for approximately 51.7 million dollars (around 48.3 million euros). Sotheby's auction house in New York had the privilege of facilitating this extraordinary event, sharing that the Ferrari is now in possession of an anonymous lucky buyer.
Making Headlines at #SothebysNewYork
Sotheby's took to Twitter to celebrate the auction result, explaining that this iconic 1962 masterpiece sold for 51.7 million during their dedicated Marquee sales of Modern and Contemporary Art.
"Ciao, Bella" was the hashtag used to honor the "most expensive Ferrari ever sold at auction," further emphasizing the Italian sports car's greatness.
Red-Hot Rarity
The 330 LM/250 GTO boasts bright red paint and a unique character that has cemented its spot as a rare treasure. The car competed for Ferrari at the Nürburgring in 1962, where it impressively took second place in a 1000-kilometer race.
Its racing journey continued with stints in France and Italy before settling in the United States in 1974. Today, only 36 remarkable Ferrari 250 GTOs remain in existence (source: New York Times). The model's scarcity hasn't deterred famous car collectors, including fashion designer Ralph Lauren and Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason, from acquiring their own 250 GTOs.
Stellar Performances and Anticipated Bids
Sotheby's had initially valued the luxurious model at 60 million dollars (around 56 million euros), yet the bids fell shy of their expectations. The winning bid was surprisingly less than this estimate. The car's allure did not fail to attract attention from around the world, however, preparing for a potential reappearance at a future motorsport auction.
Setting the Bar in 2022
Mercedes-Benz contested the title for the "most expensive car sold at auction" in 2022. The car manufacturer put up one of only two Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupés for an eye-catching 135 million euros.(source: company) The 1955 machine was named in honor of engine erudite Rudolf Uhlenhaut, shattering previous records.
Awaiting Its Second Auction Adventure
This inimitable 1962 Ferrari 330 LM/250 GTO is expected to reappear at another esteemed motorsport auction, offering enthusiasts another chance to bid on the most expensive Ferrari ever at auction to date.
The upcoming auction, hosted by RM Sotheby's, is poised to draw attendees from every corner of the globe, with aspirations to raise the impressive 51.7 million dollar tag and surpass its own historical milestone.
Enrichment Insights
The 1962 Ferrari 330 LM/250 GTO chassis number 3765 is considered a top-tier Ferrari model. Built during the production years of the 250 GTO, this car is unparalleled because it sports the only 4-liter V12 engine among all 36 250 GTOs.
Historical Background
- The 1962 Ferrari 330 LM/250 GTO had an illustrious racing career, including podium finishes at the Nürburgring and Le Mans under the Scuderia Ferrari banner.
- The car was later converted back to 250 GTO specification and went on to claim a number of victories in various races in Sicily and the USA.
- James Jaeger was the 38-year consignor of the car, having participated in multiple concours events with the vehicle, including the second place at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and the Best of Show at the 2012 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.
- After attaining record-breaking success at the 2023 RM Sotheby's auction in New York, the car now stands as the most valuable Ferrari ever sold at auction.
