The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series II represents the zenith of Enzos transition from the racetrack to the high-society boulevards of Europe. While the concurrent California Spider was the choice for the extroverted racer, the Series II Cabriolet offered a more formal, conservative elegance that whispered rather than screamed. This specific example, chassis 2381 GT, is a true “one-of-one” masterpiece, being the only second-series cabriolet factory-finished in the mesmerizing Verde Abete Savid metallic spruce green. It arrives on the market fresh from a world-class Italian restoration, having recently secured the prestigious Best of Show: Gran Turismo title at the 2025 Cavallino Classic.
Pininfarina Formalism in Unique Verde Abete Savid
The exterior of this 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series II is a masterclass in Pininfarina’s late-fifties design language, utilizing the 2,400-millimetre short wheelbase to achieve near-perfect proportions. Unlike many of its siblings that were repainted in standard red or black over the years, chassis 2381 GT has been fastidiously returned to its original metallic spruce green hue by the artisans at Bacchelli & Villa. The silhouette is defined by its clean, straight beltline and the absence of the aggressive hood scoops found on racing models, emphasizing its role as a sophisticated grand tourer. Adorned with four-wheel disc brakes and period-correct brightwork, it stands as the most masterfully presented example of a cosmetic one-off vintage Ferrari.
Naturale Vaumol Leather and Italian Craftsmanship
Inside the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series II, the cabin has been re-trimmed to its original factory specifications by the renowned Tappezzeria Luppi. The interior features Naturale Vaumol leather and vinyl, providing a warm, organic contrast to the deep green exterior paintwork. Every element of the driver’s interface, from the wood-rimmed steering wheel to the reconditioned instruments by Elettrauto Gatti, reflects a level of detail that earned it a Platinum Award. This interior serves as a period-correct time capsule, offering the tactile luxury that defined the golden era of Mediterranean touring while ensuring modern reliability through a full wiring and mechanical reconditioning.
The Colombo V-12 with Outside-Plug Ferocity
Performance is derived from the matching-numbers 3.0-liter Colombo-designed V-12 engine, specifically the Type 128E iteration. This legendary motor features developments honed on the Testa Rossa racecars, including individual cylinder porting and outside-V spark plugs for superior accessibility and cooling. The engine delivers a refined yet ferocious power delivery, characterized by the mechanical symphony that only a Maranello twelve-cylinder can produce. While output varies by tuning, this unit typically provides 240 hp/243 PS and 193 lb-ft/262 Nm of torque, ensuring that this “wolf in sheep’s clothing” can still outpace contemporary traffic with effortless grace through its certified original gearbox and rear axle.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Colombo V-12 (Type 128E) |
| Chassis Number | 2381 GT |
| Exterior Color | Verde Abete Savid (Metallic Spruce Green) |
| Interior Material | Naturale Vaumol Leather |
| Certification | Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” |
| Recent Accolade | 2025 Cavallino Best of Show |
Monaco Provenance and Collecting Value
In the hierarchy of the Ferrari 250 GT family, the Series II Cabriolet has emerged as a savvy alternative to the California Spider, offering nearly identical mechanical specifications and styling at a more approachable investment level. However, chassis 2381 GT occupies a different echelon of the market due to its “one-of-one” color configuration and recent major award wins. For a collector, the fact that this car was purchased and restored by Bacchelli & Villa, perhaps the most respected name in the field, adds a layer of security and prestige that few other 250s can claim. Its 15-year tenure with an Austrian diplomat in Monaco further solidifies its “jet-set” provenance, making it a crowning addition to any world-class collection.
A Crowning Gem of Maranello History
This 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series II is quite simply a peerless example of the breed. With its matching-numbers components confirmed by the Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” and its extraordinary state of presentation validated by the 2025 Cavallino Best of Show win, it leaves nothing to be desired. Whether intended for high-speed touring across the Alps or the center-stage spotlight at the world’s most exclusive concours events, chassis 2381 GT is a brilliant gem that honors the legendary workshops of both Maranello and Grugliasco. It is a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Ferrari history that is not just restored, but reborn in its most beautiful and unique original guise.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
