1960 Ferrari 250 GT

Ferrari 250GT Coupe Pininfarina (Coupe), 1958-1960

The Ferrari 250GT Coupe was in production from 1958 until 1960. Styled by Pininfarina, it is a two door, two seat coupe.

Developed in order to make series production a practical prospect, the 250GT Pinin Farina is widely regarded as the first semi-series production Ferrari with a total of 353 built. Mechanically, it was similar to its 250GT predecessors, meaning a 3.0 Columbo V12, rear wheel drive, a four speed manual gearbox, and 2600mm wheelbase. It was built by Pinin Farina on Ferrari's behalf in a brand new purpose built factory on the outskirts of Turin, reflecting the long standing partnership between Ferrari and Pinin Farina which had begun in 1952. The shape was designed in order to be simple to product on a semi industrial scale, rather than on the artisan scale of previous Ferrari models. Ferrari replaced the model in 1960 with the 2+2 250GTE, which was in turn replaced by the 330 America of 1963. This was a 250GTE with a larger 4.0 V12 fitted. The 250 GT Lusso was also intended as a replacement for the GT, on which retained the earlier car's two seat layout but with a far more curvaceous body.

The painted metal dash and wood rimmed wheel make the 250GT feel special even before you turn the key - and the idle sound of that Columbo V12 through six twin barrel downdraught carburettors only adds to the experience. Accelerate and the throb becomes a warble, evoking racing circuits the world over. The gearbox has a short, precise throw, while the steering is both direct and nicely weighted for the size and weight of car. You sit in the classic Italian driving position - long arm, bent leg - and while in modern terms it isn't quick it still has plenty of torque from around 3000rpm, and the revviness of the engine conveys an urgency which makes it feel faster than it truly is. Brakes were better on second series examples, which were fitted with front discs - early 250GT Pinin Farinas featured drums all round.

When dealing at this end of the market, it's rare to find any suggestion of corrosion, or of mechanical uncertainties. To ensure you do buy the best though, inspect the service history for signs that your potential purchase has been maintained by reputable specialists. Don't be scared to contact previous owners or garages to confirm the condition of the car before you buy either.

Cars with provenance are most desired by the market, so try to ensure there's plenty of paperwork with the car you're viewing. Unrestored originals are worth a considerable premium if in good condition, but a good restoration isn't necessarily a bad thing provided the paperwork confirms the quality of the job. With only 353 built it's a seller's market, so the chances are if you find one for sale and you're looking, you'll want to make enquiries. Cars which have had noteworthy owners or competition history hold an appeal for some enthusiasts, but shouldn't add a significant premium to their values.

If you want a large flamboyant GT of this era, you're almost spoiled for choice of delicious alternatives. Obviously, if you're considering a 250GT you'd also have the wherewithal to consider an Aston Martin DB4, which would make an excellent alternative. More sporting and more modern, the Jaguar E-Type Series 1 would also be worth considering. For something less sporting but equally stylish, perhaps a Facel Vega HK500 would satisfy a desire for style. If it really must wear a prancing horse, try one of the myriad other iterations of the Ferrari 250 or 330 families