This Ferrari feels perfect for the Maidstone and other posh, exclusive haunts of East Hampton, New York.

Its Bianco white over Blu Connoly leather is the original specification, returned via a flawless restoration to their humble, delicate original beauty.

But not just the Hamptons, of course.

For the next owner of this rare and iconic Ferrari, any and every address you visit will become fashionable. Just 40 were ever produced.

The estimate is in the $6-million-plus range.

What strikes us most about this Series I 250 GT is how humble it really feels versus later models. Like a star on the rise who did not realize this 250GT nameplate would become the most valuable in all of automotive history.

The car crosses the RM Sotheby’s auction block on December 10th.

 

1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I by Pinin Farina

RM Sotheby’s

New York – Driven By Disruption

10 December 2015

1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I by Pinin Farina

To be auctioned on Thursday, December 10, 2015

$6,000,000 – $7,500,000

 

 

*Premium Lot – Bidding via Internet will not be available for this lot. Should you have any questions please contact Client Services.

240 bhp, 2,953 cc SOHC V-12 engine with triple Weber 36 DCL/3 carburetors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and parallel trailing arms, and four-wheel hydraulic Dunlop disc brakes. Wheelbase: 102.3 in.

• The 14th of 40 Series I Cabriolets built
• Purchased new by John R. Fulp Jr.; owned for 40 years by Robert Donner Jr.
• Fully restored to original specifications and color
• Ferrari Classiche certification in process

Since the mid-1950s, Ferrari’s road-going automobiles have been integral to the longevity of the company. Founded in the pursuit of domination in international motorsport, Enzo Ferrari quickly realized that, in order to fund his racing efforts, his company would have to produce road cars alongside his racecars. Utilizing lessons learned in competition, Ferrari’s road cars were some of the fastest and most desirable automobiles on the planet, all in an effort support the company’s indomitable reputation on the track.

Considered by many to be one of Pinin Farina’s most elegant designs, the Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet is the quintessential open-top gentleman’s Ferrari. Whereas the earliest iterations of the California Spider were simply long-wheelbase 250 GT Berlinettas without a roof, this was a much more refined automobile, built for touring rather than racing. The Series I Cabriolet dripped with sophistication, benefitting from smooth and unobstructed lines defined by its closed headlamps and graceful taillights artfully crafted into the rear wings. It was the gold standard for the upper class, and ownership showcased not only the owner’s appreciation of engineering and performance but also their refined and sophisticated taste in transportation. The Series I Cabriolet was always in style—no matter the time, place, or occasion.