Ferrari’s First Rear-Mount V12: 1963 250 P

We’re just days ahead of Monterey Classic Car Week, and you know what that means: Araknid78 is pitching over all sorts of heavyweight machinery for review. This 1963 Ferrari 250 P is a celebrity of sorts, representing the foundation of Ferrari’s work in mid-engine configurations. To be offered through Gooding Christie’s on Friday, August 14th, with an estimate of $15 million to $20 million, this Ferrari boasts an impeccable résumé of both owners and in-period racing. Chassis 0810 is one of five made (including the development car) and the first to hit the track. Its body was penned by Pininfarina, but constructed by Carrozzeria Fantuzzi – also responsible for the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Spyder, a number of Maseratis, even a De Tomaso. Fantuzzi’s expertise in very thin alloy construction made his shop the “go-to” choice for Ferrari’s racing aspirations.

Let’s get one thing out of the way: Gooding Christie’s describes this car as Ferrari’s first “P” (prototype) car – ok, if we’re talking about sports racers, yes. But before this car was conceived, way back in 1961, Ferrari had finally conceded that a rear-mid engine configuration was acceptable, and the 246 P Formula 1 car was born. Teething problems with the exact placement of its V6 engine, along with rule changes, brought only stuttering success – a DNF here, a podium finish there. But rapid refinement inspired confidence, so it was inevitable that Ferrari would consider placing a V12 back there, in order to compete in sports racing categories. The 246 chassis was lengthened, and genius Mauro Forghieri over at Scuderia Ferrari figured out how to sleeve a 3.0-liter Colombo 60° V12 into the narrow engine bay, accompanied by a five-speed transaxle and inboard rear disc brakes. The engine was good for 310 hp, and the top speed rang in at about 180 mph. As chassis 0810 piled up successes, it was re-engined at least twice, matching the progression of Ferrari’s sports racing program. The bodywork was similarly altered, and then restored, depending on the racing series and the predilection of the car’s prevailing caretaker. In the day, used race cars enjoyed no celebrity status among collectors, so changes were not viewed negatively. This car’s current engine and transaxle are documented as original to the car.

It’s strictly business in here, and yes, every 250 was right-hand drive, along with most of their competitors. With few exceptions, European circuits run clockwise, so RHD allows better visibility of upcoming turns. In a nod to most humans, however, the gearshift lies on the right side. This car has been enthusiastically driven by its current owner, so we can expect it’s in good nick.

The new owner can expect invitations to all major events here and overseas. Personally, I hope it hits the track at Laguna Seca again, where I might have a chance of seeing it in action. In the meantime, I’ll be in the audience watching its progress on the price scale. Comparable sales are impossible to find – 250 Ps don’t change hands in the public marketplace. A remotely similar car – this 1962 V8 268 SP by Fantuzzi – sold in 2021 for about $7.7 million. Considering the historic importance of chassis 0810 and its V12 powerplant, the going price for our featured car should be higher, but whether it achieves the bottom end of Gooding’s estimate is anyone’s guess at this point.