Milestone Auction: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Sets Record with a Whopping $51.705 Million Sale
In a historic event at Sotheby’s in New York on Monday, automotive enthusiasts witnessed the awe-inspiring sale of a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, making automotive history with its staggering price tag of $51.705 million. This remarkable transaction now marks the priciest Ferrari ever sold at auction, a testament to the car’s unrivaled allure.
Gord Duff, RM Sotheby’s Global Head of Auctions, emphasized the unparalleled significance of this Ferrari, stating, “This sale highlights the unparalleled stature of this Ferrari as one of the world’s most desirable objects.” The vehicle, presented for public acquisition for the first time in 38 years, has etched a new chapter in its legacy.
Built between 1962 and 1964, only 39 examples of the 250 GTO were crafted by the iconic Italian manufacturer. It is exceptionally rare for an owner to part ways with such a prized possession, making this auction an extraordinary opportunity for enthusiasts. Chassis number 3765, the star of the event, is one of just 34 250 GTOs featuring Tipo 1962 coachwork. Notably, it is the sole example raced by the Scuderia Ferrari racing team, participating in prestigious events like the Le Mans 24 Hours.
The auction house highlighted the car’s unique build provenance and its remarkable racing pedigree, dubbing it one of the model’s most exceptional examples. Described as the “Holy Grail of the sports car pantheon,” the auction presented a rare chance to acquire a piece of automotive history.
While 3765 now holds the title for the most expensive Ferrari sold at auction, it’s worth noting that another 250 GTO, chassis number 4153 GT, holds the overall record. In 2018, renowned car collector David MacNeil acquired it for a staggering $70 million. Comparing the Ferrari 250 GTO to exclusive artworks, James Knight of Bonhams remarked, “The Ferrari 250 GTO is the motoring market’s equivalent of Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ and a talisman for any top-end collection.” The recent sale of 3765 adds another layer of prestige to this iconic model, with experts suggesting that such a singular GTO may not be publicly available again in our lifetime.