The gap is even increased in 1960 when Ferrari offers a breakthrough with the shortening of the wheelbase. The new 250 GT SWB California Spider is the commercial high end of the brand and perhaps the best convertible of all time. Despite all its qualities and its impeccable aesthetic that anticipates the 250 GTO, the 250 GT SWB berlinetta comes behind.
From 1960 to 1962 Ferrari produced 56 units of the 250 GT SWB California Spider. Now the collectors scrutinize the original authenticity of the elements of these cars. One of them that had been forgotten for decades in a barn was sold for € 16.3M including premium on 6 February 2015 by Artcurial despite a condition calling for an extensive repair.
The highest price recorded at auction for a car of this model in good condition is $ 15.2 million including premium by Gooding on 16 August 2014. This unit had started its career as a demonstration car.
Another very nice example released in 1961 is estimated € 11M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Villa Erba (Lake Como) on May 23, lot 130.
We've spent the afternoon dreaming of @rmsothebys 250GT SWB California Spider
http://t.co/Dy99ATgrhF pic.twitter.com/CHMYyVuPn1
— Classic & Sports Car (@CandSCmagazine) May 8, 2015