The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Coupé Series II represents the ultimate evolution of the collaboration between Maranello and Pinin Farina. While most grand tourers of this era were designed for effortless travel, chassis 1743 GT was born with a much more aggressive spirit. Commissioned by European Hillclimb champion Willy Peter Daetwyler, this car hides a competition-grade heart beneath its elegant silver skin. It is one of only 151 Series II examples, making it a rare sight in any world-class collection. This specific vehicle served as a training tool for racing drivers in California, bridging the gap between road-going luxury and track-focused performance. It remains a definitive example of Ferrari’s golden age.
Unique Factory Commission and Rally Features
The exterior of this 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Coupé Series II features several unique modifications requested by its original racing driver owner. A centrally mounted Marchal spotlight dominates the front grille, requiring the factory to offset the Cavallino emblem to the left side. It is finished in its original Grigio Argento, a color that highlights the crisp and refined lines of the Pinin Farina bodywork. The car sits on classic Borrani wire wheels, which were essential for both heat dissipation and period-correct aesthetics. These factory-installed rally features suggest a car that was meant for more than just arriving at the opera. It is a wolf in sheep’s clothing with a truly distinctive face.
Chassis Engineering and Competition Hardware
Beyond the visual cues, the mechanical specification of chassis 1743 GT was upgraded to match the owner’s competitive pedigree. It was equipped from the factory with servo-assisted disc brakes and a limited-slip differential for superior handling and stopping power. Improved shock absorbers were a hallmark of the Series II updates, providing better stability during high-speed maneuvers. An Abarth exhaust system was also fitted to allow the engine to breathe more freely while providing a sharp acoustic signature. These components align this Coupé more closely with the racing Berlinettas of the same period. It provides a level of driver engagement rarely found in a standard grand tourer.
Rosso Connolly Leather and Minimalist Cabin
The interior presents a stunning contrast to the silver exterior, featuring vibrant Rosso Connolly leather throughout the cabin. Reflecting its motorsport-inspired commission, the car was delivered with a headrest only for the passenger side to facilitate training sessions. Two map pockets were integrated into the door panels, a nod to its potential for long-distance rally events or high-speed touring. A rear luggage shelf replaces the occasional seating often found in other models, emphasizing its two-passenger grand touring focus. The dashboard remains a masterclass in functional elegance, housing the essential gauges behind a wood-rimmed steering wheel. It is an environment that balances luxury with a clear focus on the drive.
Concours History and Marque Authority
Following a meticulous restoration between 2011 and 2012, this Ferrari has reclaimed its status as a premier concours contender. It was recently exhibited at the Concours on Savile Row and the prestigious Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. A comprehensive history report by marque authority Marcel Massini accompanies the car, verifying its unique origins and ownership chain. Having spent decades in California under the care of noted collectors like Paul Forbes, it has been preserved with remarkable integrity. The car is currently located in Paris, offered as a prime candidate for the world’s most exclusive automotive events. It carries a legacy of championship-winning ownership.
Competition V-12 Engine and Performance Specs
The heart of this 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Coupé Series II is its matching-numbers Tipo 128F Colombo V-12 engine. Unlike the standard units, this engine was specially built to competition specifications, similar to the power plant found in the legendary 250 GT SWB. It features high-lift camshafts, velocity stacks, and a trio of Weber 40 DCL6 carburetors for maximum aspiration. This 3.0-liter unit delivers a visceral power delivery that is significantly sharper than a typical Series II Coupé. The “outside-plug” design ensures better reliability and easier maintenance during spirited use. It remains one of the most mechanically significant 250 GT engines currently available on the market.
Summary of a Pinin Farina Masterpiece
This 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Coupé Series II is much more than a rare production number; it is a bespoke racing artifact. The combination of a competition-spec SWB engine and unique factory rally details makes it a singular entity in Ferrari history. Retaining its matching-numbers engine and original color scheme, it offers undeniable authenticity for the serious investor. Its provenance, spanning from European hillclimbs to the racing circuits of California, adds a layer of depth to its story. This car is a perfect entry for those seeking a grand tourer with the soul of a racer. It represents the pinnacle of Pinin Farina’s early work with Ferrari.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
