The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider remains one of the most sought-after silhouettes in the history of the Prancing Horse. This specific example, chassis 1915 GT, represents the third short-wheelbase unit ever produced by the Scaglietti workshop. It embodies the transition toward a more agile 2,400-millimeter wheelbase that improved handling over its predecessor. Collectors prize this model for its unique blend of race-bred mechanics and refined road-going elegance. Finding such an early example with a documented history is a rare event in the modern market.
Exquisite Covered Headlamp Design and Scaglietti Coachwork
This vehicle is one of just 39 examples originally configured with the highly desirable covered headlamps from the factory. While some historical records previously disputed this, exhaustive metallurgical analysis and period photography have confirmed its original state. The sleek lines of the Scaglietti coachwork were recently refinished in a deep, lustrous Nero paint. Every curve of the body emphasizes the aggressive yet graceful stance of the short-wheelbase chassis. Furthermore, the exterior is perfectly complemented by original 16-inch Borrani wire wheels. These authentic details ensure the car maintains its prestigious standing at any world-class concours event.
Refined Interior and Recent Red Leather Re-trim
The cockpit has been recently revitalized with period-correct, surface-dyed Rosso leather upholstery to offer a striking contrast. This high-quality re-trim was completed in late 2025 to meet the exacting standards of the Ferrari Classiche department. Inside, the driver is met with a purposeful dashboard layout that prioritizes mechanical feedback and visibility. The rare ribbed competition-style gearbox adds another layer of exclusivity to the driving environment. These interior appointments make the car as much a pleasure to sit in as it is to drive. It remains a masterclass in mid-century Italian luxury and driver-centric ergonomics.
Three Decades of Fastidious Ownership and Maintenance
For the past thirty years, this 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider has lived under the care of a single dedicated collector. This tenure has ensured that the vehicle received the best possible maintenance and preservation efforts available. The car comes with an extensive documentation file, including history reports from marque experts Marcel Massini and Cyrille Jaquinot. A detailed 91-page assessment report by engineer Klaus Kukuk further verifies the integrity of the chassis. Such a transparent ownership chain is a significant factor in the car’s immense investment appeal. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the California Spider lineage.
Short Block V12 Performance and Technical Specifications
The matching-numbers 3.0-liter V-12 engine remains the heart of this legendary machine, producing approximately 280 horsepower. This power is managed by a four-speed manual transmission that allows the driver to exploit the engine’s broad torque curve. To preserve the original engine during tours, a spare 3.8-liter unit built by Piet Roelofs is also included. The car features four-wheel disc brakes and Koni telescopic shocks for superior control at high speeds. This combination of a widened track and short-block evolution provides a truly visceral performance experience. It represents the absolute pinnacle of Colombo-engine development during the golden era of Ferrari.
Summary of a Classiche Certified Legend
This 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider is a documented masterpiece with a newly reissued Ferrari Classiche Red Book. Its status as a covered-headlamp early production car places it in the upper echelon of automotive rarity. With matching numbers for the engine, rear axle, and coachwork, it fulfills every requirement for a serious collection. The inclusion of a spare high-performance engine makes it an ideal participant for prestigious driving tours. This is more than a car; it is a historical artifact that defines the glory of Maranello. It offers an unrepeatable opportunity for a discerning enthusiast to own a global icon.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
