Before the muscle car era began, Ferrari launched an ultimate vehicle in 1962 for GT racing. The Ferrari 250 GTO was a Grand Tourer/Sports Car built for tracks. The car was also available as a street-legal version. It was in production till 1964. Here is everything about the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.
A Look At Ferrari 250 GT
Colombo V12
The Colombo V12 was a special engine. This was not a standard engine and was rarely used. Ferrari 250 GTO used the engine with 5-speed manual gearbox and Weber carburetors. With strong engines, the vehicle’s overall speed was around 175mph. This helped the vehicle dominate in racing circuits. It was built for straight-line racing and cornering. Overall, this Ferrari was a highway cruiser.
Features
Ferrari 250 GTO’s endurance was the primary reason for its success in racing. It was equipped with tech liked triple-weber carburetors, dry sump lubrication, disc brakes, and independent suspension. The balance was great as it was a lightweight car. Ferrari’s interior features like dashboard, analog gauges, bucket seats, and manual windows were available. Other features like AC, Radio, and Sound Systems were not featured. This was built as a racing package and there were not many power features.
Designs
Ferrari always had the best designs. The 250 GTO model had a cartoon-like face with long hood, low stance, and sculpted nose. In the front, Ferrari badge and oval grille enhanced the beauty. The other styling included cooling vents, short rear deck, curved fenders, taillights, and dual exhaust outlets. The styling was a mix of aerodynamics and boxy with aluminum parts.
Built for Racing
Ferrari 250 GTO was not a luxury vehicle. It was not an ordinary grand tourer as well. This was built around the best engines to dominate races. The vehicle featured in GT endurance racing, Le Mans, Targa Florio, and Tour de France Automobile. This vehicle’s exhaust sound became popular alongside its designs and performances. Targo Florio racing event had some of the toughest tracks and this Ferrari came out all guns blazing with its run. The vehicle also secured the championship for GT Manufacturers for three consecutive years.
It Was Street Legal As Well
Although Ferrari unveiled the 250 GTO for homologation, it was a street legal vehicle as well. The car was built with the best engines and gearboxes which made it ideal for long drives. On the other hand, it was a rare model and not many units were bought by people. Some cars were sold to collector owners and some were bought by rich people. There was huge demand, but Ferrari limited the production numbers.
Collector Value Is Unbelievable
Ferrari 250 GTO’s collector market value shocked everyone. When the vehicle was launched in 1962, it was sold for around $17,000 USD. The inflation will be around $200,000 USD. A report revealed the old model was sold at $38.1 million. This was massive and shows the vehicle’s range. People were crazy for Ferrari vehicles in the 60s. One more Ferrari 250 GTO was sold at $70 million in the collector market. This shows the vintage Ferrari cars are always up for huge bucks.