1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder
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The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder 1961 is a true masterpiece of engineering and design. Its beauty and performance have made it a highly sought after collector's car with a timeless appeal. This iconic sports car was produced by Ferrari between 1957 and 1962 as a successor to the Ferrari 250 GT Boano/Ellena.
One of the most notable characteristics of the 250 GT SWB California Spyder is its chassis. The chassis was constructed using welded oval tubes, which made it lighter and more rigid than its predecessor's. It was also fitted with short-wheelbase (SWB) suspension, which made it more agile and responsive. The car weighs around 950 kg (2,094 lbs), and its wheelbase measures 2,400 mm (94.4 inches).
Under the hood, the 250 GT SWB California Spyder is powered by a naturally aspirated V12 engine with a capacity of 2953 cc. The engine is capable of producing up to 280 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, and it is paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds and reach a top speed of approximately 150 mph.
The body of the 250 GT SWB California Spyder is another work of art. The design was created by Pininfarina, a renowned Italian car designer, and built by Scaglietti, an expert coachbuilder. The car features a stunning and sleek body with flowing lines and a distinct front grille. The Spyder has a two-seater open-top configuration with a retractable soft top, which can be operated manually.
The interior of the 250 GT SWB California Spyder is equally impressive. The seats are covered in the finest leather, and the dashboard features a classic style. The car is also equipped with a few luxuries such as power windows and an AM/FM radio.
The 250 GT SWB California Spyder is a rare and valuable car. Only 56 units were produced, making it even more desirable among collectors. It has made several high-profile appearances in movies such as "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Charlie's Angels."
In summary, the Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder 1961 is a remarkable car that combines elegant design, exceptional handling, and incredible performance. It is a true testament to Ferrari's commitment to manufacturing beautiful, high-performance sports cars that are desired by enthusiasts around the world.
Milestones
- Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1960 - Only 56 California Spyders were produced from 1960 to 1963 - Powered by a 3.0-liter V12 engine that produced 280 horsepower - Equipped with a four-speed manual transmission - Could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds and had a top speed of 152 mph - Won the GT class at the 1961 12 Hours of Sebring race - Became popularized in the movie "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" in 1986 - One of the most expensive classic cars sold at auction, with one 1961 model selling for $17.2 million in 2016Technical
• Engine displacement: 2,953 cc • Engine type: Colombo V12 • Horsepower: 280 hp • Torque: 224 lb-ft • Transmission: 4-speed manual • Brakes: Disc brakes all around • Top speed: 140 mph • 0-60 mph: 7 seconds • Wheelbase: 94.5 inches • Length: 166.3 inches • Width: 68.3 inches • Height: 51.2 inches • Curb weight: 2,425 lbs • Suspension: Independent coil spring at front and rear • Steering: Worm and sector with cam and lever • Fuel capacity: 58 liters • Production years: 1960-1963 • Original price: $17,000Related manufacturer
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