1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider Could Fetch Up to $18 Million at Auction

RM Sotheby’s is set to auction one of Ferrari’s most iconic cars, the 1960 250 GT SWB California Spider, during Monterey Car Week. This particular example is not just any Ferrari; it’s the very first 250 GT SWB California Spider ever built and was the car introduced at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show.

The 250 GT SWB California Spider is celebrated for its elegant Pininfarina design and potent V-12 engine. The model debuted in 1957 as a long-wheelbase version but gained prominence with the short-wheelbase (SWB) version, which began production in 1960. The car in question, chassis 1795 GT, is finished in its original Grigio paint with black leather upholstery. Initially shown with red leather at the Geneva Motor Show, it was returned to the factory for re-upholstery before being delivered to its first owner, British race car driver John Gordon Bennet.

Only 56 units of the 250 GT SWB California Spider were built, and this first example is a standout for retaining its original engine, gearbox, and rear axle. The car features a competition-spec Tipo 168 3.0-liter V-12 engine, delivering 263 hp, which provides a thrilling driving experience in a car that weighs around 2,100 pounds.

The 250 GT SWB California Spider will be auctioned from August 15 to 17, with RM Sotheby’s anticipating a final bid between $16 million and $18 million. If achieved, it could become one of the most expensive cars ever sold at auction.