This incredible car, photographed by @justinschmoeller, is the 27th of just 56 made worldwide: the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder (serial number 3021GT). Part of the legendary Ferrari 250 series (1952-1964), this car is revered for its blend of racing and road car heritage. Enzo Ferrari, who founded ‘Scuderia Ferrari’ in 1929, didn’t initially intend to make road cars. After WWII, the factory moved to Maranello, and Ferrari’s first car, the 125 S, was built in 1947. In 1957, the 250 GT California Spyder was launched for American consumers, particularly Californians. Pininfarina designed its body, with Sergio Scaglietti overseeing production at Carrozzeria Scaglietti. The prototype, chassis 0769GT, debuted in 1957 and recently won Best in Class (Scaglietti production) at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Long-wheelbase (LWB) versions (2.6 meters) were produced from 1958-1960, with only 50 units made, followed by the short-wheelbase (SWB) models (2.4 meters) from 1960-1963, with just 56 units. The SWB debuted at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show (chassis 1795GT). The shorter chassis of the SWB provides sportier, race-focused handling, while the LWB offers smoother touring capabilities. SWB models also feature better suspension and braking systems. Car number 3021GT was delivered to French playwright Françoise Sagan in 1961. This is a steel, covered-headlight version with a factory hard-top. Repainted olive with a star in the 1970s as part of the “US Army Racing Team” livery, it’s now shown in a light blue metallic with beige interior and was displayed at the 2023 Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza. The 250 GT California Spyder became a pop culture icon in the 1986 film ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,’ where Cameron says, “The 1961 Ferrari 250GT California. Less than 100 were made.” While a real 250 GT California was used for close-up shots, replicas were used in most scenes.
How many made? 56
Engine: 3.0 L (2953.21 cc) Colombo Tipo 168 V12
Debut: 1960 Geneva Motor show
Top Speed: approximately 145mph
0-60mph: approximately 6.1 seconds
Photo Credit: @justinschmoeller
Research: @rarecarsonly
1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder
17.10.2024
Ferrari