The 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France (TdF) is a legendary sports car that represents the golden era of Ferrari’s dominance in motorsport. Designed as a dual-purpose vehicle for both racing and road use, the 250 GT TdF achieved extraordinary success on the track while remaining a highly desirable and collectible classic today.
This 250 GT #0733 is one of 80 Ferrari GTs produced between 1956-1959 and finished 2nd in the 1957 Tour de France and 8th in the 1958 Buenos Aires 100KM. Both races were driven by works drivers Trintignant and Picard.
It was awarded Best Of Show Concours de Sport at the 2024 Hilton Head Concours.
Background
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Model Year: 1957
- Model: 250 GT Tour de France
- Significance: Named after its victories in the grueling Tour de France Automobile, a prestigious endurance race, the TdF established Ferrari as a leader in grand touring performance. Only about 84 examples were produced across multiple body style variations.
Specifications
- Engine:
- Type: 3.0-liter (2,953 cc) Colombo V12.
- Output: Approximately 240–260 horsepower at 7,000 rpm.
- Features: Three Weber carburetors, single overhead camshaft per bank, and high-revving performance.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels.
- Chassis:
- Lightweight tubular steel frame with aluminum body panels.
- Wheelbase: Shortened to 2,600 mm for improved handling.
- Suspension:
- Front: Double wishbones with coil springs and hydraulic dampers.
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic dampers.
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
Design and Features
- Coachbuilder: Scaglietti, with styling influenced by Pinin Farina.
- Exterior:
- Sleek, aerodynamic design with a long hood, fastback roofline, and muscular rear haunches.
- Signature features included louvered sail panels, covered or open headlights, and a distinctive grille.
- The car’s lightweight construction contributed to its competitive edge in racing.
- Often finished in bold racing colors, including the iconic Rosso Corsa (red) with racing number decals.
- Interior:
- Spartan and driver-focused, with minimal luxuries to reduce weight.
- Features included lightweight bucket seats, a simple dashboard with essential gauges, and a three-spoke steering wheel.
- Stripped-down trim highlighted its racing pedigree.
Performance
- Top Speed: Approximately 150 mph (241 km/h).
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph in around 6.0 seconds, exceptional for the era.
- Driving Dynamics: The TdF offered razor-sharp handling, thanks to its short wheelbase and balanced weight distribution. It excelled in both high-speed straight-line performance and tight cornering.
Racing Success
- The 250 GT TdF dominated endurance racing in the late 1950s:
- Multiple overall wins at the Tour de France Automobile from 1956 to 1959.
- Class victories at prestigious events, including the Mille Miglia and 12 Hours of Sebring.
- Its reliability and speed made it a favorite among privateer racers and Ferrari’s factory team.
Legacy
- Rarity: With only 84 units produced, each TdF is highly unique, with variations in design and configuration across examples.
- Collector Status: The TdF is one of the most sought-after Ferraris, commanding millions of dollars at auctions due to its historical importance and racing pedigree.
- Influence: The 250 GT TdF set the foundation for Ferrari’s future grand touring cars, including the legendary 250 GTO.
Summary
The 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France is a masterpiece of design, engineering, and racing excellence. Its combination of stunning aesthetics, groundbreaking performance, and a rich motorsport legacy makes it a true icon in the history of Ferrari and automotive design.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Tour De France in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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