One Of 40: 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I

When it comes to exclusivity, few do it better than the Italians. Limited production runs, exclusive allotments for the best customers, and one-offs you never even knew existed are all part of the Ferrari story at this juncture, and we’re reminded of how limited quantities of anything will almost always elevate the price. The 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I shown here on RM Sotheby’s is one of just about 40 ever made and is delightful not only for its rarity but also for never being comprehensively restored save for a lone respray in its original colors. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Araknid78 for the tip.

This Ferrari will head to auction on August 14, with a pre-sale estimate range of $4,000,000 – $5,000,000. Designed by Pinin Farina, this was the actual New York International Automobile Show car in 1958 and has enjoyed a colorful history with notable owners, all of whom seemingly had a deep affection for Ferrari road cars. The fact that it was on display at the 1958 show is important for a few reasons, most notably because it confirms that the configuration has remained exactly the same ever since: Rosso Metallizzato over Naturale leather with the desirable “competition-style” covered headlamps and bumperettes.

This is the photo that blows my mind: imagine seeing a Ferrari that is this significant and limited in production and realizing it hasn’t been restored. The worn leather is perhaps my favorite feature, and I’m truly impressed by the restraint the previous owners have shown in not stripping it down for a six-figure restoration. The listing notes its first owner was a surgeon in Pennsylvania Dutch country, where it sat amongst other notable Ferrari models of distinction. It then went to a furniture manufacturer in North Carolina, an oil tycoon in Texas, and most recently, into a private collection where it has resided for over four decades.

Intriguingly, the car has not been seen aside from some sporadic showings over the years. This includes winning its class award in Postwar Preservation at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, and otherwise only appearing at The Quail gathering in 2007. It retains its complete matching-numbers drivetrain, and the Tipo 128 SOHC alloy V-12 engine generates around 240 b.h.p., fed by triple Weber 36 DCL/3 carburetors. It is an experience few will get to enjoy, but thankfully, all of the owners who have come to know this 250 GT have respected its impressive state of preservation.