In March 1960, Ferrari revealed a masterpiece at the Geneva Motor Show: the 250 GT SWB California Spider. This sleek, open-top sports car, designed by Sergio Scaglietti, captured audiences with its timeless elegance and powerful performance. Now, decades later, one of these rare and coveted vehicles has sold for a staggering $17 million.
In an era before the internet, car enthusiasts relied on auto shows and special events to catch a look at the latest automotive innovations. Ferrari’s 250 GT SWB California Spider was one such groundbreaking model.
It was the first of its kind, part of a limited production series of 56 examples. This drop-top beauty was a vision of John von Neumann, a Ferrari importer in California who understood the desires of American drivers.
With Luigi Chinetti’s support, the 250 GT LWB California Spider was born. Based on the Tour de France Berlinetta’s chassis, this open-bodied car showcased Scaglietti’s design genius. Ferrari produced only 50 of these stunning vehicles.
The 250 GT California quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with on the racing circuit. It achieved a class victory at Sebring in 1959 and finished fifth at Le Mans that same year. Building on this success, Ferrari introduced a shorter-wheelbase version, the 250 GT SWB California Spider. This model featured a wider track, advanced suspension, and powerful disc brakes.
In an era before the internet, car enthusiasts relied on auto shows and special events to catch a look of the latest automotive innovations. Ferrari’s 250 GT SWB California Spider was one such groundbreaking model. It was the first of its kind, part of a limited production series of 56 examples.
This drop-top beauty was a vision of John von Neumann, a Ferrari importer in California who understood the desires of American drivers. With Luigi Chinetti’s support, the 250 GT LWB California Spider was born. Based on the Tour de France Berlinetta’s chassis, this open-bodied car showcased Scaglietti’s design genius. Ferrari produced only 50 of these stunning vehicles.
The 250 GT California quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with on the racing circuit. It achieved a class victory at Sebring in 1959 and finished fifth at Le Mans that same year. Building on this success, Ferrari introduced a shorter-wheelbase version, the 250 GT SWB California Spider. This model featured a wider track, advanced suspension, and powerful disc brakes.
This unique blend of performance and practicality was the vision of John von Neumann, a Californian Ferrari importer. He recognized that American drivers wanted a car that could handle both the racetrack and the open road.
With Luigi Chinetti’s support, von Neumann’s idea became a reality. The California Spider was built on the chassis of the Tour de France Berlinetta, with coachwork designed and crafted by the legendary Sergio Scaglietti.
