• Matching-numbers example
• Rare factory options, including bonnet scoop
• Engine rebuilt by Emblem Sports Cars at a cost in excess of £70,000
Introduced at the Paris Salon in 1960, the Ferrari 250 GTE marked a significant departure for Maranello. The company’s first true four-seat production model, it combined the proven Colombo-designed 3.0-litre V12 with elegant Pininfarina coachwork to create a grand tourer capable of sustained high-speed continental motoring. Commercially, it proved an immediate success, becoming Ferrari’s best-selling model to date and laying the foundations for every front-engined four-seat Ferrari that followed.
Completed in 1961, chassis 2351GT is an early Series I example and benefits from one of the more unusual factory features seen on the model: a bonnet scoop specified from new, a rarely encountered detail that distinguishes it from the majority of GTE production. Although research into its earliest history continues, the car is known to have been first delivered through Riva, Italy, before later making its way to the United States.
At some point prior to 1986, the Ferrari was involved in a traffic accident in Idaho and was subsequently placed into storage, where it remained for approximately twenty-five years. When acquired by the previous owner in June 2012, the engine had been removed, though retained with the car, and the body displayed damage, principally affecting the roof, doors and upper structure. Later that year, the car was imported to the United Kingdom to join a private collection of British, German and Italian sports cars.
Although initially considered (and still suitable) as the basis for a 250 SWB recreation, the decision was ultimately taken to preserve the car as the genuine 250 GTE it had always been. Over the following decade, an extensive six-figure restoration was undertaken with an emphasis on returning the Ferrari to correct specification whilst retaining as much original material as practicable.
To facilitate the repairs, the bodyshell of 3983GT was acquired from RM Sotheby’s celebrated Duemila Ruote sale in 2016, providing the necessary donor sections for the restoration. The roof, pillars, doors and one front wing were replaced, while the vast majority of the original body structure was carefully retained wherever possible. The completed body was refinished in its original shade of Grigio Argento, while the interior was comprehensively re-trimmed by O’Rourke Coachtrimmers in 2021 at a cost of some £23,000. Finished in teal blue leather, the cabin presents beautifully and complements the understated exterior colour to excellent effect.
With the cosmetic restoration substantially complete, the car was entrusted to Emblem Sports Cars, recognised specialists in the Ferrari 250 series, for a comprehensive rebuild of its original Colombo V12. Completed during 2024, the work extended to some 300 hours and exceeded £70,000 in expenditure. Every stage of the rebuild was meticulously documented through detailed invoices, photography and video, resulting in one of the most comprehensive records one could hope to accompany a restored Ferrari of this period. Understandably, the car now drives fabulously – pulling strongly in every gear, sounding fabulous and displaying great oil pressure, even when hot.
Today, chassis 2351GT retains its original chassis, body, engine and rear axle, with the gearbox believed to be original too. The Ferrari is accompanied by two substantial history files: one documenting the restoration with invoices, correspondence and period literature; the second devoted entirely to the engine rebuild undertaken by Emblem Sports Cars, extending to approximately 200 pages.
Early Series I examples have become increasingly appreciated for their purity of design and their importance within Ferrari’s production history. Whilst unlikely to win a concours, ‘UFX 231’ combines matching-number mechanical components, an unusual factory specification, extensive recent restoration and a significant investment in its mechanical condition.
Ready to use and enjoy, chassis 2351GT offers arguably the most cost-effective route into GTE ownership. Any interesting part exchange / trade considered.
Available for viewing at our Cheshire showrooms by appointment only.
Please note – Interested parties should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each vehicle. Each motorcar is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per our terms and conditions of business. The history listed above is to the understanding of ourselves and the vendor, using the available resources. Any disputes will not be entertained after a sale has been agreed.
