RM Sotheby’s will hold their first auction at Cliveden House on June 12, 2024. An assortment of European cars will on offer including an impressive array of Ferraris, several of which are expected to be Million Dollar Cars.
Ferrari introduced the 250-series in the early 1950s and they’ve come to be known as some of the marque’s most successful race cars. Following the 250 GT Berlinetta “Tour de France” model, Ferrari revealed the 250 GT SWB (Short Wheelbase) at the Paris Auto Salon in 1959.
It was available in road-going specification as well as the Competizione spec which included alloy bodywork and a more powerful version of the Tipo 168 Colombo V12 engine.
The 250 GT SWB would prove itself on track over the next couple years, finishing third overall at the 1961 24 Hours of Le Mans. A notable victory was taken by Sir Stirling Moss at the Goodwood Motor Circuit, competing for the 1960 Tourist Trophy. Moss piloted a privateer entry to a dominant victory and eventually won seven of the eight races he entered behind the wheel of a 250 GT SWB.
250 GT SWB at Cliveden House
The example to be offered by RM Sotheby’s at their upcoming Cliveden House auction is known to be the 34th example produced out of the 165 that were built in total. Marcel Massini, noted Ferrari historian, compiled a history of the car that shows it was ordered with the standard steel body panels and the car was completed on August 11, 1960.
A copy of the build sheet is included with the car and it shows that this 250 GT SWB was originally finished in Grigio with Nero Connolly leather and was delivered to its first owner in that configuration in Milan. Its well-documented history shows that it landed in the collection of Rob Lamplough in 1978, eventually receiving FIA historic race papers and was entered in a variety of road rallies as well as the Tour Auto, inspired by the original Tour de France.
In 2009 its then-owner oversaw a restoration to its factory specification steel body that was performed by Carrozzeria Autosport. Following this the car was certified by Ferrari Classiche in 2013 and awarded its Red Book, which is included in the sale.
RM Sotheby’s estimates this should sell for $6,000,000 – $7,500,000. Considering the condition and extremely well-documented history of this car that should be an attainable price as we’ve seen these ranging from $7,200,000 – $9,000,000.