The Ferrari 250 Gt Berlinetta SWB V12

Presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 1959, the short-wheelbase Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta represented the perfect road-going racing car.

The first Ferrari GT to feature disc brakes. Its shortened wheelbase ushers in the famous SWB (short wheelbase) designation, while also improving handling to optimise its 280bhp 3-litre V12 engine.

Initially designed for competition, it quickly amassed an impressive record. Among its successes are three consecutive victories in the Tour de France Automobile from 1960 to 1962, two of which were with Olivier Gendebien at the wheel and one with Willy Mairesse. In 1960, the 250 GT SWB achieved a remarkable performance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing in fourth to seventh place overall. The following year, Jean Guichet and Pierre Noblet secured it third place on the Sarthe podium.

The perfect harmony between the clean, sculptural lines of the 250 GT SWB considerably enhanced Ferrari's reputation. Like previous models, the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB was designed by Pininfarina and bodied by Scaglietti. The fluid curves of the body subtly reveal the aerodynamic engineering developed by Carlo Chiti and Giotto Bizzarrini.

Considered one of the most beautiful car models in history, if not the most beautiful, the 250 GT SWB is remarkable for having perfectly married aesthetics and performance.

The example presented here is truly exceptional. It has benefited from a restoration of very high quality, respecting its original colour, which is still present. Aluminium elements confirm its interest and rarity. It is, of course, Ferrari Classiche certified.

This is an almost unique opportunity to own a true legend.

Important dossier, photographs and video available on request.