Next month’s 2023 Monterey Car Week in California is set to feature an exciting RM Sotheby’s auction, where multiple classic Ferraris will go under the hammer. Among the impressive collection, one particular car stands out from the pack: a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM bearing chassis No. 6053.
The 250 LM holds a special place in Ferrari’s racing history. It was envisioned as the successor to the legendary Ferrari 250 GTO and was primarily sold to privateer racers. Derived from the successful 250 P prototype race car, the 250 LM was built for road use to meet GT competition regulations. However, it maintained many similarities to its racing counterpart, with the addition of a roof.
The 1964 Ferrari 250 LM was fitted with a 3.0-liter V-12 engine, although later versions received an upgraded 3.3-liter unit. This change meant that the later 250 LMs had to compete in the prototype class at events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite this adjustment, the 250 LM continued to achieve success on the track.
Chassis No. 6053 has a noteworthy racing history. Originally sold to British racing driver George Drummond, the car saw action around the U.K. circuit. Drummond also took it to renowned endurance races such as the 1966 24 Hours of Daytona and the 1968 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as races in South Africa.
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While the Ferrari 250 LM paved the way for victory at Le Mans, it was later overshadowed by the North American Racing Team’s 250 LM, which secured an overall victory at the iconic race in 1965. Ferrari’s return to the top of the podium at Le Mans in 2023 was made possible by their new 499P LMH race car.
This particular 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, finished in the striking color of Rosso Cina, is one of the later models built and features the more powerful 3.3-liter V-12 engine, estimated to deliver 320 hp. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.
The car’s listing states that it underwent a full restoration by Ferrari Classiche, the classic car department of Ferrari, as recently as 2021. This meticulous restoration ensures that the car is in pristine condition, both inside and out, ready to be admired by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
With its rich racing history, stunning design, and impeccable restoration, this 1964 Ferrari 250 LM is expected to fetch a significant price at the RM Sotheby’s auction. Its estimated value falls between $18 million and $20 million, reflecting its status as a highly sought-after and iconic vehicle.
In addition to the 250 LM, the RM Sotheby’s auction will feature other rare and notable cars. One such car is the 2001 Ferrari 550 Maranello Prodrive, which secured a class win at the 2004 24 Hours of Le Mans with drivers Darren Turner, Rickard Rydell, and Colin McRae. There is also a 1956 Porsche 550A, which took a class win at the 1956 24 Hours of Le Mans, adding to the incredible lineup of historic racing cars up for auction.
Car enthusiasts and collectors attending the 2023 Monterey Car Week will have the opportunity to witness these classic Ferraris and other iconic vehicles up close. The RM Sotheby’s auction promises to be a captivating event, offering the chance to own a piece of automotive history and experience the thrill of being behind the wheel of these legendary racing machines.
