The Ferrari 250 GTE: racing heritage and timeless design
In every bit a Ferrari
In the 1950s and 1960s, Ferrari was hard at work cementing its reputation as a master of both racing and luxury automobiles. The Ferrari 250 series played a pivotal role in this journey. Created under the guidance of Enzo Ferrari and technical genius Gioachino Colombo, the 250 lineup was powered by the legendary Colombo V12 engine.
But in 1960, Ferrari unveiled a plan as bold as an Italian putting pineapple on pizza: a 2+2 GT (Gran Turismo) that wasn’t just about speed but also offered comfort. Pininfarina, Ferrari's trusted design partner, was tasked with crafting the bodywork. And boy, did they deliver! The result was an elegant, streamlined coupe with refined proportions. Built on the same platform as the 250 GT, the 250 GTE had its engine positioned slightly forward to create more interior space. With a powerful 3-liter V12 engine delivering 240 hp, it remained every bit a Ferrari – complete with the kind of engine growl that could make opera divas green with envy.
The Purpose Behind the 250 GTE
Although the 250 GTE was quickly celebrated as a luxurious GT car, its life began with a very different mission. Ferrari developed the car with one specific role in mind: to serve as a pace car during races. In this role, the car not only needed to be fast and reliable but also to exude the kind of sexy allure that matched Ferrari’s prestige.
The 250 GTE debuted as a pace car in the early 1960s and immediately turned heads on the circuit. A car equally at home on the racetrack as on a leisurely drive through the rolling Italian hills.
After its pace car career, the 250 GTE became Ferrari's first model to be produced in significant numbers. (Well, about 1,000 units – which, by Ferrari standards, is practically mass production.) Customers looking for a touch of comfort without sacrificing speed flocked to it. This made the 250 GTE one of Ferrari's best-selling models of its time.
Today, the 250 GTE is a highly sought-after collectible – and for good reason. With its racing heritage and timeless design, it strikes the perfect balance.
The Star of the Show
Here sits a Ferrari 250 GTE Series II in all its glory. With its long hood, alluring Azzurro (16240) paint, and beige leather interior, this car transports you straight to the Italian Riviera. Drooling is just part of the experience. Curious? Check it out here and bask in the charm of a true Ferrari classic!
