Renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s is gearing up for an extraordinary sale of a 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, a vehicle that puts even the most modern hypercars in the shadows. Produced before the iconic 250 GTO and limited to just 19 units, the 250 Testa Rossa stands out as one of Ferrari’s most triumphant racing machines.
With the coveted chassis number 0738 TR and a pontoon-fender body crafted by Italian maestro Sergio Scaglietti, this remarkable 250 Testa Rossa has an illustrious racing history. It participated in about 20 races shortly after its departure from the Maranello factory, clinching victory in four of them. The car’s racing journey took it to Brazil in its early years, where it famously won the Rio de Janeiro Grand Prix in 1965. Over the following years, it passed through various Brazilian owners before making its way to the United States in the 1980s. Despite undergoing rebodying in the 1960s, it remarkably retained its original drivetrain.
While it might seem extreme to modify such rare classics, it’s important to remember that many multi-million dollar vintage race cars appearing at major auctions today were practically worthless not too long ago. As they became outdated and less competitive, numerous vehicles received new bodies and engines, with some even being scrapped.
As interest and values for classic Ferrari models soared, chassis number 0738 TR underwent a comprehensive restoration by Ferrari Classiche, Ferrari’s dedicated classic car department. This thorough refurbishment earned the car the prestigious Red Book certification, confirming it retains its original engine and gearbox. The 3.0-liter V12 engine is a crucial element of its identity, with “Testa Rossa” translating to “red head” in Italian, referring to the engine’s red cylinder heads.
The term “rarity” takes on a new meaning with chassis number 0738 TR. Considered rare by today’s standards, Ferrari’s LaFerrari saw a production run of 499 units, while the reborn Lamborghini Countach was limited to just 112, and Bugatti produced a mere 40 Divos. In contrast, this 250 Testa Rossa is one out of a mere 19.
Sotheby’s highlights that chassis number 0738 TR has resided in a private collection for over a decade, subtly warning enthusiasts that missing this opportunity might mean waiting another ten years for a similar chance. The auction is scheduled to commence in Detroit, Michigan, on February 21, 2024, at 5 pm ET (2 pm PT) and will conclude two days later. Owning this slice of Ferrari history comes with a hefty price tag, with estimates suggesting it could fetch up to $38 million.
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In conclusion, the 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa chassis number 0738 TR offers a unique blend of exclusivity, racing pedigree, and painstaking restoration. For collectors and enthusiasts, this auction represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the allure of one of Ferrari’s finest.
Lawrence Jacobs, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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