This is the last of only 55 1963 Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB series California Spyders built between 1960-1963 and was chosen to be one of 60 select Ferraris to celebrate 60 years of Ferrari in North America at the 2014 event in Beverly Hills.
At 2,200 lbs, four speed transmission, four wheel disc brakes and 276hp, this car was capable of 166 mph, but performed best on a tight race track.
Pierro Ferrari (Enzo’s son) was driven in this car at Ferrari North America’s 60th anniversary event in Beverly Hills.
The 1963 Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB is a classic example of Ferrari's ability to combine high performance with stunning design and cultural significance. Its powerful V12 engine, elegant Pininfarina bodywork, and luxurious interior make it an exceptional sports car. The 250 California Spyder SWB remains a cherished and celebrated vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered Ferraris in automotive history.
Overview
- Production Years: 1957-1963 (with the SWB variant introduced in 1960)
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Model: 250 California Spyder SWB
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 250 California Spyder SWB is powered by a 3.0-liter (2953 cc) Colombo V12 engine.
- This engine produces approximately 280 horsepower at 7,000 rpm.
- It features single overhead camshafts per cylinder bank and is equipped with three Weber carburetors.
- Transmission:
- The car features a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The gearbox is known for its precise shifting and durability, contributing to the car's engaging driving experience.
- Chassis:
- The 250 California Spyder SWB is built on a tubular steel chassis, providing a strong yet lightweight structure.
- The wheelbase measures 2400 mm (94.5 inches), contributing to the car's agile handling and sporty feel.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension features independent wishbones, coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, and an anti-roll bar.
- The rear suspension consists of a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers.
- Brakes:
- The Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes.
- These brakes provide strong stopping power, enhancing the car's safety and performance.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB can achieve a top speed of approximately 145 mph (233 km/h).
- Acceleration: The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, impressive for a sports car of its era.
- Handling: The SWB chassis and advanced suspension design give the car excellent handling characteristics, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The 250 California Spyder SWB features a Pininfarina-designed body with a sleek and elegant profile.
- The car has a long hood, short rear deck, and distinctive covered or open headlights, depending on the variant.
- Chrome bumpers, a bold front grille, and stylish Borrani wire wheels add to its luxurious and sporty appearance.
- Interior:
- The interior of the 250 California Spyder SWB is luxurious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
- The seats are upholstered in fine leather, and the dashboard features wood veneer trim and polished instruments.
- The car offers a comfortable and stylish driving environment, perfect for long-distance touring or spirited driving.
- Styling:
- The styling of the 250 California Spyder SWB is a blend of classic Ferrari elegance and sporty aggression.
- The car's design emphasizes both aerodynamics and aesthetics, contributing to its enduring appeal and status as a design icon.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1963 Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB is an important model in Ferrari's history, representing the brand's prowess in creating both high-performance sports cars and beautiful grand tourers.
- It was one of the last models produced in the 250 series, marking the end of an era for one of Ferrari’s most successful and celebrated lineages.
- Cultural Impact:
- The 250 California Spyder SWB gained significant cultural recognition, partly due to its association with Hollywood stars and its appearance in popular films, including "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."
- It is often seen as a symbol of 1960s glamour and sophistication, further cementing its iconic status.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print in of the 1963 Ferrari 250 California Spyder SWB our dElegance 2015 online gallery.
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