The Ferrari 250 LM at RM Sotheby's Paris
The 1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti is a legendary sports car renowned for its iconic mid-20th-century design and engineering. Successor to the 250 GTO, the 250 LM (Le Mans) was meticulously crafted to dominate endurance racing. Its most remarkable achievement came in 1965 when it secured an overall victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans—a feat not repeated by Ferrari again until 2023.
Carrozzeria Scaglietti’s design breathes life into the 250 LM with an aggressive yet elegant aesthetic. Its curvaceous aluminum body exudes a low-slung profile, accentuated by pronounced wheel arches and large, round headlamps seamlessly integrated into the front end. The car’s compact dimensions and taut proportions convey a sense of speed and purpose. Distinctive features include a teardrop-shaped cabin with expansive side windows, a rear hatch equipped with integrated air scoops, and a prominent rear spoiler lip.
Beneath its aerodynamic exterior lies a powerful 3.3L Colombo V12 engine, ingeniously mounted midship. This revolutionary configuration optimized weight distribution and handling, making the 250 LM an exceptionally agile track machine. The engine delivers approximately 320 horsepower, channeled through a five-speed manual gearbox, enabling the 250 LM to reach speeds exceeding 180 mph.
Only 32 examples of the 250 LM were ever produced, elevating its rarity and desirability to unparalleled heights. Each car was meticulously handcrafted, showcasing Scaglietti’s exceptional craftsmanship in every detail, from the precise fit and finish of the panels to the luxurious yet minimalist interior. The cabin is sparsely furnished, prioritizing the driver’s comfort with racing-inspired touches such as bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a straightforward instrument cluster.
The 250 LM being offered by RM Sotheby’s in Paris next month holds a special significance. It’s from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and is the very car that achieved the coveted overall victory at Le Mans in 1965. With an estimated value exceeding $26,000,000, this iconic vehicle is poised to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike as it graces the auction block on February 5.