This 1960 Ferrari 250 SWB Competition has an extensive racing history in Europe.  Races include the Monza, 1000 KM Paris, Mille Miglia Rally, Targo Florio, German GP to name some of them.  This unrestored Ferrari is powered by a water cooled single-overhead-cam 2953 cc V12 engine developing 280 horsepower.

The 1960 Ferrari 250 SWB (Short Wheelbase) Competition is one of the most revered and iconic sports cars ever produced by Ferrari. Known for its combination of stunning design, exceptional performance, and racing pedigree, the 250 SWB Competition is a standout in automotive history.

Design and Features

• Manufacturer: Ferrari, the renowned Italian sports car manufacturer.
• Body Style: Berlinetta (coupe), characterized by its short wheelbase, which provided improved handling and agility.
• Coachbuilder: The body was designed and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, known for its lightweight construction and aerodynamic efficiency.
• Chassis: Based on a tubular steel frame, designed to be lightweight and rigid, optimizing the car’s performance both on the road and track.
• Interior: Spartan and purpose-built for racing, featuring minimalistic design with necessary instrumentation, lightweight bucket seats, and essential controls.

Performance

• Engine: Powered by Ferrari’s famous 3.0-liter V12 engine, known as the Tipo 168/61 Colombo V12.
• Power Output: Approximately 280 to 300 horsepower, depending on the specific tuning and configuration.
• Transmission: Equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox, providing robust and reliable performance suited for racing.
• Top Speed: Capable of reaching speeds of around 155 mph (250 km/h), which was impressive for the era.
• Suspension: Independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, and telescopic shock absorbers; live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and telescopic shock absorbers, ensuring excellent handling characteristics.
• Brakes: Disc brakes on all four wheels, which were advanced for the time and provided superior stopping power.

Racing Pedigree

• Competition History: The 250 SWB Competition was designed for endurance racing and achieved significant success in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Tour de France Automobile, and the Targa Florio.
• Notable Wins: It secured numerous victories and podium finishes, cementing Ferrari’s dominance in the GT racing category during the early 1960s.
• Drivers: Driven by legendary racers such as Stirling Moss, Phil Hill, and Olivier Gendebien, contributing to its storied racing heritage.

Production and Rarity

• Production Years: The Ferrari 250 SWB was produced from 1959 to 1962.
• Total Units Produced: Approximately 176 units, with around 74 of these being Competition (Competizione) models, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
• Price: Due to its rarity, racing pedigree, and historical significance, the 250 SWB Competition commands high prices at auctions, often reaching several million dollars.

Notable Features

• Aerodynamic Design: The short wheelbase and sleek body design contributed to its superior handling and aerodynamic efficiency.
• Engine Performance: The Colombo V12 engine was a masterpiece of engineering, offering a balance of power, reliability, and a distinctive exhaust note.
• Lightweight Construction: Extensive use of aluminum in the body panels and other lightweight materials helped achieve an optimal power-to-weight ratio.

Challenges

• Maintenance and Restoration: Keeping a Ferrari 250 SWB Competition in top condition requires specialized knowledge and access to authentic parts. Restoration efforts must be meticulous to preserve its historical integrity.
• Authenticity: Ensuring the authenticity of a 250 SWB is crucial, given its high value and the potential for modifications or replicas. Provenance and detailed documentation are essential in verifying originality.

You may purchase a print of the 1960 Ferrari 250 SWB Competition in our dElegance 2017 online gallery.

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