This 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is the 38th of 51 cars built. It was completed in mid-November of 1959. This is a steel bodied second generation example with the three liter inside plug V-12 engine and disc brakes. About half of the 250 GT California Spyders were considered second generation cars. They featured flared fenders and a sculpted rear buttress along with a different dash and interior appointments. The car features an open headlight configuration and it may be the only California using all “Lucas” electrics.
The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of Ferrari's design and engineering excellence. With its powerful V12 engine, elegant styling, and exceptional performance, it stands as one of the most iconic and celebrated Ferraris ever produced. Today, it remains a cherished and highly sought-after collector's item, admired for its beauty, speed, and historical significance in the annals of automotive history.
Background
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Year: 1959 (produced from 1958 to 1963)
- Model: 250 GT California Spyder
Specifications
- Engine: The 250 GT California Spyder is powered by a 3.0-liter (2,953 cc) Colombo V12 engine. This engine produces around 240 horsepower at 7,000 rpm.
- Transmission: It features a four-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car is built on a tubular steel frame, known as the Tipo 508, which provides strength and rigidity while keeping the weight relatively low.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of independent A-arms with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers. The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and telescopic shock absorbers.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The 250 GT California Spyder is a two-door convertible with a sleek, aerodynamic design. It was available in both short-wheelbase (SWB) and long-wheelbase (LWB) versions, with the SWB being introduced in 1960.
- Design: Designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, the California Spyder features clean lines, a long hood, and a distinctive, aggressive front grille. The car's design embodies the elegance and sportiness that Ferrari is known for.
- Interior: The interior is luxurious and driver-focused, featuring leather upholstery, a well-designed dashboard with classic instrumentation, and comfortable bucket seats. The cockpit is designed to offer both comfort and a sense of occasion.
Performance
- Speed: The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder can reach a top speed of around 145 mph (233 km/h).
- Acceleration: It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds, which was impressive for its time.
- Handling: The car's advanced suspension system, lightweight construction, and powerful V12 engine provide excellent handling and driving dynamics, making it a joy to drive on both highways and winding roads.
Historical Significance
- Hollywood Glamour: The California Spyder gained significant fame and iconic status partly due to its association with Hollywood celebrities and its appearance in popular culture. It was famously driven by actors like James Coburn and was featured in the movie "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and the 1966 movie, “Munsters, Go Home”.
- Racing Pedigree: Although primarily a road car, the 250 GT California Spyder also saw success in racing. It competed in events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Tour de France Automobile, showcasing its performance capabilities.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is one of the most desirable and valuable classic cars in the world. Its rarity, performance, and historical significance make it highly sought after by collectors.
- Auction Record: The California Spyder has set numerous records at auctions, often fetching multi-million dollar prices. Its status as a collectible masterpiece is cemented by its frequent appearance in high-profile car collections.
- Design Influence: The car's design and engineering have had a lasting impact on the automotive world, influencing subsequent Ferrari models and other high-performance sports cars.
You may purchase a print of the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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