Lot details
Registration No: XSU 243
Chassis No: 3399

- Supplied new to the Swiss racing driver and inaugural European Mountain Championship winner Willy-Peter Daetwyler

- 1 of just 954 250 GTE 2+2 cars made across three series

- Current ownership since 1990 and much recent restoration work

The first `mass produced' Ferrari, a curious soubriquet given that just 954 were made over three series, the 250 GTE 2+2 was unveiled to the world's media at the 1960 Le Mans 24-hours when a prototype was lent to the clerk of the course. As if to reinforce the newcomer's desirability, the Maranello marque claimed six of the top seven positions that year. Designated Tipo 508E, its multi-tubular chassis frame was derived from that of the 250 GT Pininfarina Coupe / Cabriolet but with the engine and gearbox moved 200mm further forward and the fuel tank repositioned sternwards. Thus, despite sharing the same 2,600mm wheelbase as its predecessor the 250 GTE 2+2 could accommodate two extra passengers. Staying true to established Ferrari practice, it featured coil-sprung independent front suspension, a well-located leaf-sprung rear axle and four-wheel disc brakes. The addition of overdrive to the four-speed manual gearbox was a comparative novelty but the Gioacchino Colombo designed Tipo 128E outside plug 3-litre V12 engine had more than proven its worth. With some 235bhp and 181lbft of torque on tap, the four-seater was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and 143mph. Honed by Pininfarina in a wind tunnel, the two-door fixed head coachwork was beautifully resolved with a handsome visage, airy glasshouse, swage line just above the wheelarch tops and subtle tail fins. Nicely trimmed, the model also boasted a carefully considered heating and cold air ventilation system not to mention a surprisingly spacious boot. A vital revenue generator in much the same vein as Maserati's 3500GT or Aston Martin's DB4, the 250 GTE 2+2 proved that Ferrari could make a civilised road car every bit as accomplished as its racers.

Supplied new to America, chassis 3399GT was first owned by Swiss racing driver Willy-Peter Daetwyler who had won the FIA's inaugural European Mountain Championship in 1957 aboard a Works Maserati 200S and also campaigned a Ferrari 750 Monza with great success before migrating across The Pond. Resident in South Africa when the vendor acquired it during 1990, the Ferrari was subsequently used on a regular basis for many years. Taken off the road for restoration, work on the 250 GTE 2+2 was nearing completion when its owner suffered major life changing health problems. The engine is running with good oil pressure and there are no reported drive train faults but the whole car would benefit from recommissioning and a thorough checking over. The interior has been re-trimmed and a stainless steel exhaust fitted but the paint finish could be improved upon. Many 250 GTE 2+2s have been cannibalised over the years either for spares or to replicate more revered models. However, survivors are now being cherished in their own right. Worthy of a return to its former glory, chassis 3399GT is offered for sale with UK V5C Registration Document and numerous bills / photographs.