Ferrari Le Mans cars of the 1960s were a series of iconic sports cars specifically designed for endurance racing, notably competing in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. These cars, including models like the Ferrari 250 LM, were characterized by their sleek designs, powerful engines, and mid-engine layouts, which provided optimal handling and performance on the racetrack. Throughout the 1960s, Ferrari Le Mans cars achieved notable success in endurance racing, securing victories at prestigious events and solidifying Ferrari’s reputation as a dominant force in motorsport. Today, these cars are revered as symbols of automotive excellence and continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
The Ferrari 250 LM, also known as the Ferrari 250 Le Mans, is a legendary sports car produced by the Italian manufacturer Ferrari in the early 1960s. It was specifically designed for endurance racing, hence the “LM” designation, which stands for Le Mans.
Ferrari 250 LM was produced in limited numbers between 1963 and 1964. Only 32 units were built, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Ferraris ever produced.
The design of the Ferrari 250 LM was influenced by Ferrari’s experience in endurance racing. It featured a sleek and aerodynamic body designed by Pininfarina, with a mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution and handling.
Powering the Ferrari 250 LM was a 3.3-liter V12 engine derived from the Ferrari 250 P racing car. This engine produced around 320 horsepower, providing impressive performance on the racetrack. The Ferrari 250 LM was capable of reaching a top speed of around 170 to 180 miles per hour (270 to 290 kilometers per hour) depending on gearing and aerodynamic setup. This made it one of the fastest cars of its era. As for acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour (0 to 97 kilometers per hour) typically took around 6 to 7 seconds.
The Ferrari 250 LM achieved notable success in endurance racing, including victories at prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1965, a Ferrari 250 LM claimed overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, solidifying its place in motorsport history.
Due to its limited production numbers, racing pedigree, and iconic status, the Ferrari 250 LM is highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts. Examples in pristine condition command extremely high prices at auctions, often reaching several million dollars.
The highest price ever paid for a Ferrari 250 LM at auction was approximately $17.6 million USD. This particular Ferrari 250 LM, chassis number 6107, was sold by RM Sotheby’s during their Monterey auction in August 2015
Overall, the Ferrari 250 LM is celebrated for its exquisite design, exceptional performance, and significant achievements in endurance racing, making it a true icon in the automotive world.
Specs
- Engine: 3.3-liter Tipo 226 V12 engine
- Power output: Approximately 320 horsepower
- Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox
- Top speed: Around 174 mph (280 km/h)
- 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) acceleration: Approximately 6.0 seconds
- Weight: Approximately 1,985 lbs (900 kg)
- Production years: 1963-1964
- Production quantity: Only 32 examples produced
- Racing achievements: Victories at prestigious endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring
- Chassis design: Tubular steel spaceframe chassis with lightweight aluminum bodywork
This article uses material from ChatgptÂ
