When it comes to expensive classic cars, nothing comes close to the 1960s Ferrari 250 GTO: someone paid $52 million last year for a 1963 model!
So it’s a rather special moment for Ferrari itself when its Classiche restoration shop works on a 250 GTO. The specialists from Maranello have just finished restoring Chassis no. 3445, a special Ferrari 250 GTO that was one of the stars of 1960s racing.
Following more than two years of renovation at the Ferrari Classiche department, the 250 GTO is now ready to return to its owner in the United States. The car was restored to its original engine and bodywork configuration in which it was delivered in 1962 to its first owner, Bologna-based published Luciano Conti. The latter also drove 250 GTO in its maiden race, the Bologna-Passo della Raticosa.
In June 1962 the car was sold to Count Giovanni Volpi di Misurata, a racing driver who competed under the S.S.S. Repubblica di Venezia insignia. During this period, the car also won the Trophée d’Auvergne with Carlo Maria Abate behind the wheel.
In April 1963 the 250 GTO changed hands again, being purchased by Swede Ulf Norinder who changed its livery from the original red to blue and yellow colors of Sweden. It’s the same livery the car proudly wears today.
Norinder drove it to victory in the Vastkustloppet race in Sweden, with the car also finishing second twice in the famous Targa Florio race (with Bordeu and Scarlatti in 1963, and 1964 with Norinder and Pico Troiberg). The 250 GTO entered the latter race as no. 112 which it still bears today.
After 1964, the car changed hands several times before being bought by its current U.S.-based owner who had it restored to its original splendor.
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