1960 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Speciale

Among all the 250 specials, this unique cabriolet built on 1737GT is one of the best. Not only does it have a custom body, but one fashioned in aluminum that covers a bespoke interior and competition engine. By 1960, Pininfarina stopped construction of Ferrari’s competition cars to focus on regular production of the 250 GT as both a coupe and convertible.

As the occasion arose, Pininfarina dressed up several chassis for customers such as Price Bernard of the Netherlands and Princess Lilian of Belgium. These unique coupes took traits of Ferrari’s 400 Superamerica line and applied them occasionally to several 250 GTs. The same is true for our feature car 1737GT which was built on the short-wheel-base, (SWB) 2400mm chassis.

Wanting to impress the crowds at the Geneva Motor Show, this Cabriolet Speciale was heavily detailed both in and out. The body shape was similar to the Ferrari 400 of the period, having covered headlights, three-part rear lights and a notched rear trunk. Unlike the regular Superamerica body, 1737GT benefited from an all-aluminum construction.

Further enhancing the performance pedigree of this model is a Tipo 128F competition-spec engine from the Testa Rossa. It produces nearly 300 bhp on a good day. For extra rigidity, the engine compartment has extra bracing which also supports a brake booster.

Inside the cockpit is a lavish interior that was the best Pininfarina had on offer in 1960. The dashboard was entirely new and contrasted by ivory leather seats.

After being displayed at Geneva, it was sold to France and remained there until 1979 when Peter Sachs imported it to America. Eventually Oscar Davis purchased 1737GT and had it restored by Classic Coach Repair in 1993. The spectacular restoration was completed in a hue of Azzuro Reale, complete with a matching hardtop.

Davis then showed the car for the next 20 years, appearing at Cavallino five times, Pebble Beach Concours in 1994 and Ferrari’s 50th Anniversary in 1997.