The World’s Most Expensive Car: The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
Cars have long been a symbol of luxury and status, and some rare and valuable cars can fetch incredible sums at auction. But none compare to the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, the most expensive car ever sold at an auction. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the history and significance of the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO and hear from two experts about its place in the world of high-end automobiles.
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is a racing car produced by Ferrari between 1962 and 1964. It was designed to compete in the FIA’s Group 3 Grand Touring Car category and was one of the most successful racing cars of its time, winning numerous championships and races.
What makes the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO so valuable is its rarity. Only 39 of these cars were ever made, and they are considered by many to be the most desirable and valuable Ferraris ever produced.
According to McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty Insurance, which specializes in high-end automobile insurance, “The Ferrari 250 GTO is the ultimate trophy car for collectors. It’s rare, beautiful, and has a storied racing history. It’s the kind of car that makes collectors’ hearts race and their wallets open.”
Another factor contributing to the car’s value is its place in the history of racing and automobiles. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was driven by some of the greatest racing drivers of its time, including Phil Hill and Stirling Moss, and it won numerous races and championships in the 1960s.
As Jonathan Klinger, vice president of car culture and restoration at Hagerty, says, “The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is a symbol of racing and automotive history. It represents a time when cars were designed for speed and performance, and racing was as much about art as it was about engineering.”
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO that sold for a record-breaking $48.4 million at auction in 2018 was particularly special. It was one of only 36 Ferrari 250 GTOs ever made and had a racing history that included victories at the 1962 Tour de France and the 1962 Italian GT Championship.
As Hagerty says, “This particular Ferrari 250 GTO is a true unicorn. It’s one of the most desirable and sought-after Ferraris in existence, with a racing history that is almost unmatched. It’s the kind of car that collectors dream about.”
But the story of the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is not just about its rarity and racing history. It’s also about the passion and dedication of the collectors who seek out these cars and the value that they place on these unique and iconic automobiles.
According to Klinger, “Collecting cars like the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is all about passion and dedication. It’s about valuing something for its beauty, its history, and its significance in the world of automobiles. And for collectors who are passionate about these cars, owning one is the ultimate dream.”
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is not just a car – it’s a symbol of racing and automotive history, a rare and valuable piece of art, and a dream for collectors around the world. Its record-breaking sale in 2018 only highlights the enduring appeal of these high-end automobiles and the passion and dedication of the collectors who seek them out. Whether you’re a racing fan, a car enthusiast, or simply appreciate the beauty and history of high-end automobiles, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is a fascinating and iconic piece of automotive history that is sure to inspire and captivate for years to come.
