Categories: Cars

This Rare Ferrari 250 GTO Could Sell for $70 Million. Here’s Why

A perfectly maintained and completely unrestored1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is up for sale. However, as one might expect, it’s not exactly commanding Honda Civic money. The star of the Mecum Auctions taking place in Kissimmee, Florida, from January 6 to 18, could exceed $70 million (€60 million).

Why so much? This specific car—chassis number 3729GT—wears Ferrari’s rare “Special White” paint. It’s a unique model, not just because of its paint job, but also for its prominent racing history and its pristine condition.

The History

The 250 GTO is considered by many to be the ultimate Ferrari. Produced in just under 40 units between 1962 and 1964, it was created specifically for the International GT Championship, combining refined aerodynamics with already legendary mechanics.

Under the long aluminum hood developed at Ferrari and crafted by Scaglietti lies the V-12 Type 168/62 Comp engine with 3.0 liters of displacement, capable of around 300 horsepower. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, this engine ensured extraordinary performance for the time, combined with crucial endurance in long-distance races.

The 12-cylinder engine of the Ferrari 250 GTO

Photo by: Ferrari

What makes the 3729GT chassis truly unique is its configuration. It is the only Ferrari 250 GTO delivered new in White, a choice made by its first owner, the British John Coombs, a renowned team owner and refined racing world connoisseur.

Coombs introduced some functional modifications that are still present, such as the hood slots, a third air intake on the fender, and the cabin ventilation duct connected to a front headlight—details that indicate real racing use rather than a museum piece.

The Notable Owners

The car boasts a high-level racing record. The Ferrari Special White achieved a class victory and numerous second places, competing on major British and European circuits. It was driven by drivers such as Graham Hill, Jack Sears, Mike Parkes, Roy Salvadori, and Richie Ginther.

Ferrari 250 GTO, the interior

Photo by: Ferrari

In 1962 and 1963, it finished second overall at the RAC Tourist Trophy in Goodwood, a race valid for the FIA GT championship, directly contributing to Ferrari’s world titles. It was so advanced that it was even lent to the Jaguar racing department for comparative tests, which revealed a clear superiority over the E-Type.

After its racing career, the car saw several notable owners, including Jack Sears himself, who owned it for almost thirty years. Since 1999, it has been part of the Jon Shirley Collection.

During this time, it was returned to its original White livery and regularly used in prestigious events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the Cavallino Classic, and the Goodwood Revival. Never invasively restored, but maintained, repaired, and refined when necessary, it retains a rare level of originality, certified by the Ferrari Classiche Red Book.

And it is precisely that history that contributes to the estimated value of this 250 GTO. While not officially disclosed by the American auction house, according to experts, it could be sold for figures very close to $70 million.