The Ferrari 250 GTO is widely regarded as the “Holy Grail” of collector cars. With only 36 units ever produced between 1962 and 1964, any opportunity to acquire one is a global event. However, a specific 1962 model, known as the “Bianco Speciale,” is currently generating unprecedented buzz in the automotive world.
Unlike the sea of Rosso Corsa (red) examples, this particular chassis—3729GT—holds the distinction of being the only 250 GTO to leave the Maranello factory finished in white (Bianco).
A Pristine Time Capsule in Original Condition
What sets this Ferrari apart from its peers isn’t just the unique paint job; it is the car’s remarkable state of preservation. While most 250 GTOs have undergone extensive ground-up restorations to erase the scars of racing, the Bianco Speciale is described as unrestored.
According to the auction details, the car has been meticulously maintained, repaired, and refinished over the decades, but it has never been fully stripped down. It remains a “time capsule,” offering a tactile connection to 1960s engineering that restored models often lose.
History and Racing Pedigree
The car’s journey began with John Coombs, a prominent UK race team owner. Under his stewardship, the GTO participated in various trophy races. Interestingly, its lack of a grueling, high-impact victory record may be the reason it survived in such excellent condition. Its final top-tier international competition took place in 1964, after which it transitioned into the hands of private collectors.
Key Specifications of Chassis 3729GT:
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Model Year: 1962
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Engine: 3.0-liter Tipo 168/62 Comp V-12
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Transmission: 5-speed manual
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Horsepower: 300 hp
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Exterior: Bianco (White)
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Interior: Nero (Black)
While the car has been kept original in spirit, it hasn’t been without mechanical updates. It received replacement engines during its life, including a crash repair in 1963 and a fresh engine block sourced directly from Ferrari Classiche in 2008 to ensure it remains road-legal and functional.
Setting Sights on a New World Record
The market for the 250 GTO has seen an exponential rise over the last decade. In 2012, prices hovered around $31 million. By 2018, a private sale reportedly reached the $70 million mark, and a 2023 auction saw a model fetch $51.7 million.
Because the Bianco Speciale is a “one-of-one” factory color and boasts an unrestored status, experts believe it could challenge existing records. In the world of high-end collecting, “originality” often carries a higher premium than “perfection,” making this white Ferrari one of the most anticipated auction entries in years.
