Description
The 250 GT California Spyder was created in 1957 when Ferrari's US distributor Chinetti persuaded Enzo Ferrari to build an open version of the 250 GT Tour De France for sale in the US. Mechanically it was mostly the same, including the 240hp V12, but it had stunning bodywork designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti. Initially 49 250 California's in LWB form (2600mm) were built. Later Ferrari changed the chassis to the stiffer and more agile SWB version (2400mm). It also received disc brakes and a higher compression 260hp engine. Only 54 SWB California Spyders were made. Production of all 250 California's ran from 1957-1963. The top speed was around 145 mph, with a 0-60 time of around 7. 0 seconds.
There are no cheap 250s, but the California Spyder is one of the most expensive, just behind the GTO in terms of todays value. Both versions are pretty rare, even as far as 250s go, but the SWBs higher power and what is generally considered to be better looks mean that it typically commands a higher price at auction. The best example of this comes from the auction of the Baillon collection in 2015. A SWB California Spyder which had been resting in a barn for decades, and was in need restoration as a result, sold for $18. 5 million, exceeding all estimates by several million.
You could not dare to drive a genuine Ferrari 250 California on todays roads, but this stunning recreation can be driven and enjoyed fully.
This car is an amazing re-creation of the Ferrari 250 SWB California. Built to the highest standards with incredible attention to detail. Only a handful of these replicas have been professionally built. The bodywork is finished in Ferrari Rosso Barchetta, which is a deeper, more classy red than the typical Rosso Corsa seen on the majority of Ferraris. The colour was only available in the 1950s and 1960s and suits the style of the car perfectly. Photographs do not do it justice, it has to be seen to appreciate how beautiful this car is.
It has a stunning Stone leather interior, with fully functioning replica instruments and switches. Many replicas don't go to this level of detail. Power is provided by BMW 2200cc 6 cylinder engine with a 5 Speed Manual gear box, and it has performance in line with the original Ferrari (0-60 in 7. 5 seconds). It has a custom stainless steel exhaust system that provides increased power and is tuned to create an awesome exhaust note, which burbles and pops as you would expect from a Ferrari. It also benefits from modern day features such as Electric Hood, Electric windows operated by the period window winders, Central Locking, Electric Boot lock, Alarm and Immobiliser, Heated and electrically adjustable seats, hidden radio with USB/ iPod connectivity, USB and 12v power charging sockets.
The Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB is often described as one of the most beautiful cars ever built, and this recreation is stunningly beautiful. This is a completely usable fun car. It can be used and appreciated for being a car to drive, not a museum piece. It draws admiration everywhere it is seen. It recently won first prize at the Castle Howard Classic Car Show in June 2018. This car is as rare as the original and opportunities like this don't come often. Not to be missed. Amazing value at only £99, 000 for those who don't have a spare £16 million.
