One-of-two Ferrari 250 California sells for $20 million at auction

In August 2025, a rare Ferrari 250 California, known as chassis number 2383 GT, was set to be auctioned by Gooding Christie’s at the Pebble Beach auction. This vehicle is one of only 56 examples produced and stands out as one of just two that was crafted with a race specification at the Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy, in 1961. The car is particularly significant due to its high-performance features, which include a V12 engine that produces an estimated 280 horsepower, along with several race-ready modifications such as a limited-slip differential and a removable aluminum hardtop roof. The Ferrari has a rich racing history, having been involved in various hill climb and circuit races across Germany and Austria shortly after its initial production. Its racing successes include two hill climb victories in 1961, further showcasing its pedigree in motorsport. The car transitioned through several owners, starting its life with a silver-gray body and a blue leather interior before being repainted red. It traversed locations including Stuttgart, Germany, and Fort Wayne, Indiana, over the decades. By the mid-1980s, the car entered the collection of noted Ferrari collector Greg Garrison, and later on, in 1999, it was acquired by its current owner after undergoing a detailed restoration process. The extensive restoration included repainting the car in Grigio Fumo and preserving its original engine while ensuring all specifications matched its racing heritage, according to Ferrari Classiche certification. For 25 years, it has maintained its status as a centerpiece within one of the world’s most noted Ferrari collections and has made appearances at prestigious events like Le Mans Classic and the Goodwood Festival of Speed. With an auction estimate exceeding $20 million, the sale of this Ferrari marks a defining moment for classic car enthusiasts and collectors, emphasizing the cultural and financial significance of classic automobiles at high-profile auctions. This particular auction represents a landmark opportunity for potential buyers interested in acquiring one of the most iconic vehicles ever manufactured, showcasing both artistry and performance that epitomizes Ferrari’s legacy in automotive history.