*Vendor supplied images*
Highlights
- Unique Z3-based replica
- 3-litre straight-six
- Manual transmission
- Just 2,150 miles
The Appeal
The 250 California SWB is one of the most beautiful and expensive cars in the world. With icons of screen and stage having owned them, it’s little wonder they remain enormously desirable. Of course, that puts them completely out of reach for all but the top 0.1% of buyers. And that’s where DNA Automotive step in.
Famous for building replica kits of both classic and modern Ferraris, they produce some very high quality machinery that nicely evokes the spirit of the original.
This 250 California replica is based on a 3-litre BMW Z3, so it gives you the best of both worlds – those classic, smooth Ferrari lines with the performance and reliability of a modern car.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in November 2001
- Donor vehicle was a BMW Z3 which the vendor says had a superb history
- 5 owners from new
- Subject to a fully documented 3-stage conversion by DNA Automotive
- Private registration (RIG 9250) included in sale
- We’re informed a large maintenance and service file accompanies the vehicle
- Odometer reset during conversion – 2,150 miles covered since
- Car will be supplied with a Fresh 12 Months MOT
The Interior
- Tan leather upholstery
- Styled after the classic 250 dash layout
- Genuine Nardi wood-rimmed steering wheel
- Pioneer stereo with Bluetooth and Aux
Presented in excellent overall condition, the cabin of this 250 replica is a wonderful homage to the original. From the single piece period bucket seats to the high gear shifter, broad steering wheel and manual window winders, it’s clear that much attention has been paid to the details here. We particularly love the central bank of gauges, as well as the modern head unit that has been tucked away in the glove box.
All of the instruments, driving controls and other internal elements are in fine condition, with no evidence of notable wear and tear. So too, the leather upholstery is wearing very well, with only light evidence of use to the driver’s seat squab and a little rubbing to the piping of the outer bolster.
The tan leather is matched with complementary tan carpets and striking red overmats. It all presents in very good condition, with no signs of wear or staining that we could see.
The Exterior
- Classic red paintwork
- Black fabric roof
- Well realised proportions
Unlike many replicas, this neatly emulates the lines and proportions of the 250 California. It wouldn’t fool an expert, naturally, but it is very well realised and nicely finished. All of the bodywork presents in a smart, undamaged state, with no evidence we could discern of damage.
The finishing touch is, of course, that classic Ferrari red paintwork. It appears to have been finished to a high standard, and wears a nice level of sheen. There are, as should be expected, a few minor marks and blemishes, and the odd small stone chip, but certainly nothing that would concern us in any way.
Sitting atop the bodywork, the roof is a classic manual folding item, finished with black fabric. It looks to be free from tears, UV damage and notable wear.
Contrasting nicely with the paintwork, the brightwork all appears to be in excellent order, with a fine lustre and no pitting or corrosion apparent. All of the other trim and badging elements look to be in fine fettle too, presenting very nicely.
As would be de rigueur for the period, it’s wearing 15” chrome wire wheels, which look to be in excellent condition. They’re shod with a matching set of Firestone tyres which appear to have good tread levels and present in fine condition.
The Mechanics
- 2,979cc inline-six
- Manual transmission
- Custom exhaust system
That sonorous, naturally aspirated inline-six develops 228bhp from its fuel-injected 3-litres, all of which is delivered to the rear wheels. Threading all of that power through a manual transmission means that the drive is involving and visceral, just as the 250 would have been.
We’re assured by the vendor that the donor car benefitted from a superb service and maintenance record, and that this charming replica drives “brilliantly”. They inform us that it pulls well through the gears, handling well and braking straight and true.
Summary
Let’s face it, the vast majority of us will never see a Ferrari 250 California SWB in the flesh, let alone be privileged enough to drive one. And that’s where replicas like this come in – beautifully finished and carefully detailed, it gives a taste and sense of 250 ownership, but without having to outlay the equivalent of an island nation’s defence budget for the privilege.
This example has clearly been very well maintained and is presented in excellent overall condition, with some lovely period touches. We think this Faux-rari is a charming and intriguing car – certainly one of the most interesting things we’ve ever seen done with a Z3!
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
