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.
Thanks Jeff for another well-written Carriage House Find! What a glorious car!
Imagine getting tossed the keys to take this out for a 1hr drive 😃😎. Incredible machine. 🤌 🇮🇹
Provided you are just as tall as an Italian for that period of time. Ferrari never built a car for taller people, so at best its a lawn ornament.
I can think of many things I would rather have than a scale model Matchbox or Hotwheels toy.
Seriously? That’s your response to such an excellent piece of machinery? An AC Cobra is more my car but this Ferrari rocks.
Perfect for me, I’m 5’7″
Perfect for me, I’m 5’7″
Not true, I’m 6’2” and drive them regularly when servicing them at my shop.
And get off my lawn!
Who adulterated your corn flakes? That Ferrari is gorgeous, and your lawn ornament comment is at best, silly. What’s you vehicle of choice then, a stretch limousine?
Ah man, top down listening to a that V12 run through the revs. Heaven!
Nice, but more staus symbol than car to enjoy. I can get a 20 year old Mustang GT with a great V8 and a stick for 20 grand. Why would you want this? It is not like you could, or would, actually drive it.
Yeah, way out of my price range but I think I can appreciate the appeal. A bit like fine art painting, the vast majority of these Ferraris are only going to be owned by the super- rich and spend 99.9% of their time locked away in climate-controlled storage. Too valuable to risk taking it out and driving in your neighborhood. It’s a free country of course, so I’m not going to try and argue that car like this should only be available to the true gearhead enthusiast and not just by the 1% for investment and/or bragging rights purposes – but still a bit of a shame that virtually nobody will get to enjoy the exotic driving experience this car offers.
Strangely, I don’t really love the styling and color on this one. Compare it to the 1963 250 GT Series Lusso featured last week, I think that Lusso is absolutely gorgeous from any angle but this one here just doesn’t quite have the same perfect proportions? Kind of academic I know, as I’m never going to own it… but just saying, that’s my observation.
I’d be afraid to take it out of the garage, despite Ferris’ suggestion
The sound!
And how it feels when it’s sounding really good.
are you sure this is a “Barn Find”?
Nice write-up Jeff. And thanks for the acknowledgement.
Back in the day, I remember hearing Italian cars were built benefiting long arms due to steering wheel placement. I had long arms and WAS 6′ when I bought the alfa guilia long ago. Ive lost a few inches in the years since.
Looks like I might be a little old man before i know what I want to be, if I grow up.
Boy, presented next that Edsel, talk about both ends of the spectrum!
“It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.” :P