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1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel

250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel image

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel 1961 is a rare exotic sports car with a classic design that was first introduced in 1959. This model is designed with fluid lines and a sleek body style that has become a classic design of the Ferrari line.

This particular Ferrari model was produced with a lightweight steel body that provided exceptional performance and handling capabilities. At a curb weight of 2,315 pounds, the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel 1961 is a relatively light vehicle compared to modern-day sports cars. Its body shell is made of steel, with a front-mounted engine and rear-wheel-drive.

Under the hood, the car features a 3.0-liter V12 engine with a triple Weber carburetor that can produce up to 280 horsepower. This engine is mated to a four-speed manual transmission that ensures a smooth gear transition. Moreover, the car's suspension and brakes are also noteworthy, as it features independent front suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs.

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel 1961 also features a luxurious and comfortable interior that was designed with the driver in mind. Its bucket seats are upholstered in high-quality leather and headrests to ensure a comfortable driving experience. The dashboard is also well-designed, featuring a classic instrument panel with easy-to-read gauges and switches.

In terms of driving dynamics, the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel 1961 is known for its exceptional handling capabilities. It is agile and responsive, with a well-tuned suspension that provides good road feel and feedback. Additionally, its brakes are on par with its suspension, offering excellent stopping power and stability.

In summary, the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel 1961 is a classic sports car that delivers exceptional driving performance and handling capabilities. Its lightweight steel construction, V12 engine, and comfortable interior make this model an exceptional sports car that has become a collector's dream. With its blend of classic styling and modern performance, this car is truly a masterpiece of engineering design.

Milestones

- 1959: Ferrari introduced the 250 GT SWB (short wheelbase) Berlinetta as a replacement for the 250 GT LWB (long wheelbase) Berlinetta. - 1960: The 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel prototype, designed by Pininfarina, was presented at the Geneva Motor Show. - 1961: The first production units of the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel were delivered to customers, featuring a 3.0-liter V12 engine with 280 horsepower and a 4-speed manual gearbox. - 1961: A 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel, driven by Stirling Moss and Rob Walker, won the Tourist Trophy at Goodwood, UK. - 1962: Another 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel, driven by Edoardo Lualdi and Cesare Fiorio, won the Giro d'Italia, one of the most prestigious road races in Italy. - 1962: Ferrari launched a more powerful version of the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, called the "Competizione", with a 3.0-liter V12 engine tuned to 295 horsepower and a 5-speed gearbox. - 1963: The 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione won the Tour de France Automobile, another famous endurance race in France. - 1963: Ferrari discontinued the production of the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta steel, after building around 165 units. - 2019: A 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione sold for a record-breaking $9.4 million at an auction in Monterey, California, becoming one of the most valuable Ferraris ever sold.


Technical

- Engine: 3.0-liter Colombo V12 - Maximum power output: 280 bhp at 7,000 rpm - Maximum torque: 242 Nm at 5,500 rpm - Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox - Suspension: Front independent double-wishbone, rear live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs - Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes - Body: Steel body designed by Pininfarina with prominent fender flares and aggressive lines - Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) - Curb weight: 1,020 kg (2,248 lbs) - Top speed: 260 km/h (162 mph) - 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time: 6.1 seconds - Production numbers: approximately 176 examples built between 1959 and 1962 - Racing heritage: won numerous races and championships, including the Tour de France Automobile, the Spa 500 km, and the RAC Tourist Trophy.

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