Estimate $10,000,000 - $12,000,000
Coachwork by Scaglietti
Chassis 1235 GT
Engine 1235 GT
1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider CompetizioneA LWB Covered-Headlight California Spider with Factory-Competition Features
Equipped with Velocity Stacks, Cold Air Box, Hi-Lift Cams, Ribbed Gearbox, Long-Range Fuel Tank, and External Fuel Filler
Period Racing History Includes the 1959 Coppa Inter-Europa di Monza
Matching-Numbers Engine and Gearbox per Factory Build Sheets
Recently Restored and Presented in its Original Tricolore Livery
Accompanied by Massini Report, Unrestored Hardtop, Period Photos, and Records
Technical Specs
2,953 CC Tipo 128D SOHC V-12 Engine
Three Weber 36 DCL3 Carburetors
250 BHP at 7,000 RPM
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Independent Coil-Spring Suspension with Houdaille Shock Absorbers
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs with Houdaille Shock Absorber
The Ferrari 250 GT California Spider is, without a doubt, among the most recognizable, admired, and collectible sports cars of all time. Initially developed at the behest of Ferrari’s West Coast representative, John von Neumann, the California Spider was envisioned as an open-air counterpart to the dual-purpose 250 GT Tour de France Berlinetta and was aimed at the all-important North American market. Between 1957 and 1962, Ferrari built just 106 California Spiders: 50 examples of the original long-wheelbase (LWB) model, and 56 of the later short-wheelbase (SWB) variant. Further, of the 50 LWB California Spiders built, only about 10 were prepared new from the factory with competition features.
These factory hot-rodded California Spiders pulled their weight in racing, garnering wins in the SCCA’s B- and C-Production classes at major venues such as Bridgehampton, Nassau, Watkins Glen, and the 12 Hours of Sebring between 1959 and 1961. In Europe, where only a few LWB California Spiders were delivered, the model’s competition record was more limited. In fact, much of the model’s racing record in Italy can be directly traced to this particular example, chassis 1235 GT, which Ferrari built on special order for amateur racing driver Dott. Ottavio Randaccio. As documented in Ferrari’s build sheets, 1235 GT was originally intended for competition use, and came factory equipped with the latest, high-performance components.
At the heart of chassis 1235 GT is a tipo 128D engine, the latest version of the classic Colombo V-12, which served as the basis for the engine fitted to the 250 Testa Rossa. Not only did 1235 GT feature exceptional mechanical specifications, but its stylish body, produced by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, was also bespoke. This California Spider came fashioned with the beautiful and now highly sought-after covered headlamps, as well as a competition-type, quick-release external fuel filler. To top it all off, Randaccio fittingly had this Italian thoroughbred finished in the traditional tricolore (tricolor) livery, red with a white and green central stripe. After it was campaigned in several Italian circuit races and hill climbs, Randaccio entered the car in the final race of his career, the Coppa Inter-Europa di Monza. After this important race for GT cars, where Randaccio placed 5th overall, this example went on to pass through the hands of several Italian owners before making its way to the US in 1995.
Since 2004, this one-of-a-kind example has been cherished in a private collection, and under the current owner’s care underwent a high-quality restoration by leading Bay Area specialists, including the renowned Phil Reilly & Company of Corte Madera, California. Throughout the past 17 years, this Ferrari has been put to good use on numerous local tours and organized rallies, such as the Colorado Grand – always performing flawlessly in each event. Recently, the consigner decided to return this California Spider to its original livery, entrusting Moal Coachbuilders in Oakland, California with its cosmetic restoration. As a result, in the past year, 1235 GT has received an exacting bare-metal repaint, new upholstery, and fine detailing, all presented in its classic Italian tricolore livery as it appeared new in 1959.
In addition, the consignor’s efforts to research the history of this well-documented example has culminated in a robust history file, including a Marcel Massini report, period photos, registration documents, and restoration records. This sale also includes a rare accessory hardtop in wholly unrestored condition. This incredibly unique California Spider, never before seen at auction, presents serious collectors an incomparable opportunity to acquire an iconic, historically proven Ferrari.
