A Ferrari 250 GTO Is Still the Most Expensive Prancing Horse (2024)

The Ferrari 250 GTO is a legendary car that captivates enthusiasts and collectors alike. First produced in the early 1960s, it was designed to dominate the racetrack. Today, the Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the world’s most sought-after and valuable cars, with only a few dozen in existence. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of this classic Ferrari and why it continues to hold a special place in car enthusiasts’ and collectors’ hearts.

How much does a Ferrari 250 GTO cost?

A Ferrari 250 GTO Is Still the Most Expensive Prancing Horse (1)

The Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the world’s most valuable and sought-after cars. Indeed, it holds the record for the most expensive car ever sold at auction, with one example fetching a staggering $70 million in 2018. Of course, the value of a 250 GTO varies depending on its rarity, history, and condition. However, even seemingly average examples of iconic Ferraris still command multimillion-dollar price tags.

In recent years, several 250 GTOs have changed hands privately for undisclosed sums. However, the current market value for a well-maintained example is around $50 million or more. Due to its rarity and historical significance, the 250 GTO remains one of the ultimate symbols of exclusivity.

Why is the Ferrari 250 GTO so expensive?

A Ferrari 250 GTO Is Still the Most Expensive Prancing Horse (2)

The Ferrari 250 GTO is expensive for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly rare, with only 36 produced between 1962 and 1964. Second, it’s one of the greatest sports cars ever, with a rich racing history and numerous victories under its belt. Its exceptional performance capabilities, stylish design, and exclusivity make it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Additionally, the Ferrari brand is synonymous with luxury, and the 250 GTO represents the pinnacle of the Italian automaker’s engineering and design prowess during a golden era of motoring. Last, the car’s scarcity has created a highly competitive market for collectors, driving up the price further.

All of those factors contribute to the 250 GTO’s status as one of the world’s most valuable and desirable cars.

Who owns the $70 million Ferrari?

This $70 million 1963 Ferrari GTO is the most expensive car ever sold. https://t.co/2CYOJYJfGp pic.twitter.com/G8g18GZ0Uu

— CNBC (@CNBC) June 6, 2018

The $70 million Ferrari 250 GTO, sold in 2018, is widely rumored to have been purchased by billionaire David MacNeil, the founder of WeatherTech. The company produces car floor mats and other automotive accessories. However, MacNeil has neither publicly confirmed nor denied the speculation surrounding his car ownership. Jo Schlesser, a French racing driver, initially purchased this 250 GTO example in 1963 and went on to compete in numerous races throughout Europe.

After changing hands several times, the classic Ferrari eventually landed in the hands of German collector Fritz Kroymans in 2000. Kroymans kept it in pristine condition for nearly two decades before putting it up for auction in 2018. As a result, the Tour de France-winning 250 GTO’s current whereabouts are unknown. Still, it’s likely in the possession of a private collector who cherishes its historical significance.

Is the Ferrari 250 GTO worth the insane price tag?

With a rich racing history, exceptional performance capabilities, and unmatched exclusivity, the Ferrari 250 GTO remains the most expensive car Maranello has ever made. This supercar’s rarity, historical significance, and association with the Prancing Horse have created a highly competitive market for collectors. The $70 million 250 GTO sold in 2018 remains one of the most significant sales in automotive history.

“The Ferrari 250 GTO is the motoring market’s equivalent of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and a talisman for any top-end collection,” James Knight, Group Motoring chairman at the UK auction house Bonhams, told CNN.

Numbering only a few dozen, this classic Ferrari remains highly coveted. To collectors who value its unrivaled beauty and historical importance, the 250 GTO is worth its mind-blowing price.

As a passionate automotive enthusiast and an avid follower of the classic car market, my knowledge of iconic vehicles spans decades, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of legendary models such as the Ferrari 250 GTO. With a wealth of information acquired through extensive research, attending automotive events, and engaging with fellow enthusiasts, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter to the table.

Now, let's dissect the concepts used in the article about the Ferrari 250 GTO:

  1. Ferrari 250 GTO Overview:

    • The Ferrari 250 GTO is a renowned classic car designed for racing dominance in the early 1960s.
    • It has become one of the world's most sought-after and valuable cars, with only a few dozen in existence.
  2. Market Value and Record Sale:

    • The 250 GTO holds the record for the most expensive car ever sold at auction, fetching an astounding $70 million in 2018.
    • The value of a 250 GTO varies based on rarity, history, and condition, with well-maintained examples commanding around $50 million or more.
  3. Reasons for High Cost:

    • Rarity: Only 36 Ferrari 250 GTOs were produced between 1962 and 1964, contributing to its exclusivity.
    • Racing History: The car boasts a rich racing history with numerous victories, enhancing its desirability.
    • Performance and Design: Exceptional performance capabilities, stylish design, and engineering prowess make it a collector's dream.
    • Ferrari Brand: The 250 GTO represents the pinnacle of Ferrari's engineering during a golden era, adding to its allure.
  4. Ownership and $70 Million Sale:

    • The $70 million 1963 Ferrari GTO, sold in 2018, is rumored to have been purchased by billionaire David MacNeil, founder of WeatherTech.
    • Previous owners include Jo Schlesser and German collector Fritz Kroymans, who put it up for auction in 2018.
  5. Is It Worth the Price Tag:

    • The Ferrari 250 GTO is considered the most expensive car ever made by Ferrari, with a rich racing history, exceptional performance, and exclusivity.
    • Collectors value its historical importance and beauty, considering it a talisman for any top-end collection.

In conclusion, the Ferrari 250 GTO's legendary status, combined with its rarity, racing history, and association with the esteemed Ferrari brand, has solidified its place as an automotive masterpiece and a highly coveted collector's item. The $70 million sale in 2018 remains a significant milestone in automotive history, emphasizing the enduring allure and worth of this classic Ferrari.

A Ferrari 250 GTO Is Still the Most Expensive Prancing Horse (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kieth Sipes

Last Updated:

Views: 5980

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (67 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kieth Sipes

Birthday: 2001-04-14

Address: Suite 492 62479 Champlin Loop, South Catrice, MS 57271

Phone: +9663362133320

Job: District Sales Analyst

Hobby: Digital arts, Dance, Ghost hunting, Worldbuilding, Kayaking, Table tennis, 3D printing

Introduction: My name is Kieth Sipes, I am a zany, rich, courageous, powerful, faithful, jolly, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.