The 250 series Ferrari, launched in 1953, gave birth to some of the finest automobiles in history. Whether it be the GTO, the SWB or the Tour de France, all these models share the same Colombo-designed V12 engine, adapted for each application.

In the late 1950s, Ferrari realizes the need to increase production in order to support its continuous racing campaign. Aiming to appeal to a broader audience, Ferrari goes to its usual craftsmen to create a 4-seater GT on the long wheelbase 250 chassis. Pininfarina creates a sumptuous design and the cars will be assembled by Scaglietti.

The 250 GT/E is first introduced at the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans. Showing that the car is not intended for racing but as a grand tourer, the 250 GT/E is used as the directors official vehicle.

In its time, the Ferrari 250 GT/E becomes the most produced Ferrari car in history, with more than 1,000 cars built in just 3 years. By itself, the GT/E accounted for 40% of all 250–series models.

The car we are offering for sale is a third-series 250 GT/E. Introduced in 1963, the SIII differs on a number of levels. Aesthetically, the additional headlights are moved directly below the main hedlights, while they were inside the grill on the S1 and S2 cars. The taillights are now a conventional, single-block unit, replacing the triple round models mounted on a chrome plate.

Mechanically, the car retained the Tipo 128 engine, improved with larger valves and an increased compression rate. The 3l engine develops 240 bhp and still coupled to the 4-speed with overdrive.

Our 250 GT/E was delivered new to the U.S. to the famous Santa Monica dealer Otto Zipper. Imported to Europe in the late 1990s, the car has been cherished and well-maintained throughout its entire life. The engine is perfectly tuned, the body and frame are completely rust-free.

Purchased two years ago by the current owner, it has since then received a new upholstery. The gearbox and overdrive were both entirely overhauled in the current ownership and are in perfect condition.

Offered with its French registration, this superb 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/E is immediately available in France.