Category Archives: Ferrari

1995 Ferrari F355 Spider

April 13, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

Last week or so, I wrote up a Ferrari 512TR and said it was the best looking of the bunch. Well, the car that redesign language inspired was the successor to the similarly mini-Testarossa 348; the F355. With a streamlined design, the subtle change from angles to curves, some new great wheels and that singing 3.5 liter V8 in the middle, the 355 was an instant success. Unlike the many generations of mid-engined V8s that it replaced, it went as fast as it looked, too - with 375 horsepower on tap from the new 5 valve V8, this car was a screamer. 1995 was the first year of the Spider variant, which really took the great looks of several generations of Pininfarina design to the sun. Today, there's a lovely example available in British Racing Green - not generally a color associated with Ferrari, but certainly a color we associate with roadsters:

Year: 1995
Model: 355 Spider
Engine: 3.5 liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 7,039 mi
Price: $64,995

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1995 Ferrari 355 Spider

This Spectacular British Racing Green 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider has only 7,039 Miles. This Ferrari is equipped with a 6-Manual Transmission, Updated F1 Tubi Performance Exhaust System, Beautiful Tan Leather Interior and Top, Air Conditioning, Power- Steering, Power Door Locks & Mirrors, Clock, Tachometer, Power Convertible Top. The 30K Miles Service Has Been Performed. Monza Car thoroughly inspects each of our handpicked vehicles and puts them through a rigorous quality assurance inspection before we allow vehicles to be available for sale. Our ONE PRICE sale expires on March 31, 2014.

Condition wise, this car is pretty much immaculate; it's a lovely combination of green and tan, the wheels are perfect and with only 7,000 miles on the odometer it's hard to believe this is a 20 year old car! As bonus items, this car has had the 30K service already and has Tubi exhaust fitted, which really makes the V8 sing. For some time, the value of these F355s has been sinking but appears to be stabilizing; for the first time in 5 years, Hagerty indicated over the past few months that prices have been heading up. Still, many sellers are optimistic; Hagerty places that top value around $46,000 making this car fairly overpriced on the books. But if you're in the market and find the F355 that you want, book value probably won't factor in - you're buying a special car, so get the one that you want and can afford.

-Carter

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1992 Ferrari 512TR

April 4, 2014 Graham

If you wanted a poster car in the 1980s, you bought a Lamroghini Countach. If you wanted one of the fastest, best driving cars in the world though, you bought the Ferrari Testarossa. A revival of the classic "red head" name, the original Testarossas were front engine racers with little to do with the flat-12, mid-engined GT road car that Ferrari produced in the 1980s. Still, the name was evocative enough to spur on sales, as was the classic shape. An evolution of the 512BBi, the Testarossa would take Ferrari all the way into the 1990s; and while by then it was a dated design eclipsed by more poster super cars, the appeal and classic design of the Testarossa still shines today. While the Countach can look almost vulgar in its excess, the Testarossa is a velvet hammer. This example is from mid-run and the first year of the "512TR":

Year: 1992
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 32,535 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1992 Ferrari 512TR

1992 Ferrari 512TR in Nero Black over Black Leather.

No Reserve !

Very hard to find. Only 32.550 miles. Very good condition. This car has always been stored indoors, the AC blows ice cold and hard even on the hottest day I can drive and keep cool. Major Service Just done 200 miles ago, New engine oil, replaced oil filter, replaced transmission oil, new replaced spark plugs, replaced new brake master cylinder with Ate brake fluid and new stainless steel brake line. Rear brake cooling hoses has been replaced and other… Wheel alignment done 1500mile before. This 512TR has Tubi sport exhaust system. I don’t have stock exhaust.all scheduled services and maintenance has been routinely done and it shows in the way this car drives and performs, as well as the aesthetic of the engine bay undercarriage and all suspension and brake parts. Replaced audio, new Boss radio video CD player with Bluetooth. Installed remote control door lock system. Installed aluminum brake and clutch and gas pedal.The books, manuals, and 3 keys. The Nero Black Ferrari paint still retains that original deep, glistening look and the interior leather still has the powdery soft feel it had when it was new. There is a small window of opportunity on this Ferrari. This 512TR come with made in Italy speed line 3 piece wheels. 18X9.5 for front with 255 size tires. 18X11 for rear with 295 size tire. All tires are good shape. If you interested in please contact me by email zielsports@gmail.com

3/24/14 10;50pm additional information

Timing belt has been replace when mileage was 22228.

Fuse box has been replaced when mileage was 21439.

AC system full maintenance when mileage was 29914. AC work strong.

Manufacture recall issued replace L&R seat belt full system from Ferrari dealer.

No accident, no frame damaged from car fax record.

Thanks

These 512TRs are arguably the best looking of the breed; I'm not a fan of the 512 M that followed, though it was faster. This one looks lovely and is rare in double black, and the Speedline Mistral three piece wheels are just awesome and a perfect fit. With plenty of recent maintenance, this is certainly a strong example to look at and should likely command in the $100,000 region. While that may seem like a lot, my guess is clean examples of these won't be getting much cheaper anytime soon!

-Carter

Ferrari

1980 Ferrari 512BB

March 14, 2014 Graham

When it comes to magical moments in your life, as an automobile enthusiast there are few moments that exceed seeing your first Ferrari. For me, that was when I was quite young - about 5 years old, and a friend of my father had a very lightly used purple 512BB. I don't remember much in terms of details about anything else than walking up to that incredibly wide Ferrari, full of vents, ducts and lots of exhaust pipes. And the wheels! The wheels were so wide. To me, having gotten out of a Toyota Corolla, it might as well have been a spaceship.

And it needed to be a spaceship, because Ferrari was decidedly behind the times in the 1970s. The Daytona was an incredible car, there was no doubt; but compared to the Miura, the Daytona seemed like it was a dinosaur. Ferrari's response was to take the heart and soul of the Daytona, combine it with some lessons learned in the Dino, and make a Miura fighter. It wasn't just a response to the Miura though, it was a Miura beater. The two had similar engine outputs, but the 365 GT4/BB was just downright faster. Faster to 60, faster outright at nearly 190mph. The 365 GT4/BB was later replaced by the 512BB and later the 512BBi with their larger 4.9 flat-12s and remained the big dogs into the 1980s; the Lamborghinis may have sold more posters, but if you actually wanted a driver, you wanted the Ferrari. A few decades later, seeing a 512 still gives me goosebumps and while the Testarossa may have embodied Ferrari in the 1980s, it's still the 512BB that occupies my mind:

Year: 1980
Model: 512BB
Engine: 4.9 liter Flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 25,001 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1980 Ferrari 512BB

1980 Ferrari 512 BB. Only 25,000 klms from new. This is a car that was brought to Canada after being sold new in Switzerland, then going to the UK for a couple years. Being a Canadian car, it did not have to go through the DOT certification that the cars had to do when being imported into the United States. This means that the doors were not cut open to allow the addition of cross members for side impact crashes, as well as various additions under the front clamshell. It makes this car more desirable that the average US car that is available on the market today. Its also a 512 that has never been involved in an accident, has the rare original bumpers, and has had a complete engine rebuild three years ago by Canada's leading 512 BB expert. The transmission was also freshened up at this time. Total invoices add up close to $80,000 for all this work. Have a look at the engine photos, and you will see the detail and the newness in them. Anyone that has been watching these cars know that this model Ferrari is more than likely the next one to rapidly increase like the others have done. Limited production numbers (929 carbureted cars) always dictate which ones become super investments for the future. There is a Ferrari 512 BB running this weekend at the Amelia Island Auction in Florida, and for those who doubt the future value of this car, watch for the results of that auction. This car is not a distress sale, but it will be sold. The last one I had last summer sold to the first person that came to see it. Don't let this one pass you by if your looking for an investment car. I would expect the price to double on these in the next 10 to 15 years. This vehicle is avail for inspection (which I encourage) at anytime. If you fly into Buffalo NY, I will pick you up and bring you back to the airport when your finished viewing. I have the spare tire, just removed it to charge the battery.

With $80,000 in maintenance, you have a bit of an idea of the value of these cars. They're not the cheap Ferraris to get, by any means. Forgotten for a while in favor of newer and older models, the 365 and 512s have been on the rise, especially top condition models like this. A desirable Euro-spec car but also all-original, it's rare to see them in this condition. Hagerty values top condition 512s at just shy of $160,000 - still far short of the Daytona and on par with the top condition GTC/4s. This car is already there with the reserve still on, but this car is from a different generation than the Daytona and if you're smart you could pick this car up and watch it appreciate over the next few years. Just, please make sure that your friend's 5 year old can stare at it up close for a while...

-Carter

Ferrari

1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2

March 12, 2014 Graham

Following in my "Budget Ferrari" Dino post from the other day, here's another opportunity to get into a real budget car. A few years ago, if you wanted a budget Daytona, you got a 365 GTC/4. They could be had for under $100,000 and offered a pretty close copy of the Daytona with a touch more practicality. Heck, even in their own was the GTC/4 was a very pretty car. But the GTC/4 only lasted for a year, and it was replaced by the longest running body design of any Ferrari. Styled by Pininfarina, the 1972 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 introduced new design language that would be shared on Ferraris through the 355. But while the rakish 2+2 took the body in an entirely new direction, underneath it was still effectively a Daytona. While a Daytona will set you back the best part of a 1/2 million dollars these days, and the GTC/4 prices are pushing towards $150,000 for an average example, the 2+2 can be had for well under $50,000. It's also nearly a forgotten car these days, but was important to Ferrari as their 2+2 staple from 1972 all the way to 1989 in later 400 then 412 versions. But the 365 started it all, and this is one of the better examples that has come up to market recently:

Year: 1975
Model: 365 GT4 2+2
Engine: 4.4 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 38,000 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2

Here we have today an incredible 1975 ferrari 365GT4 2+2 ,ONLY ONE OWNER since new,this car was bought by his owner in june 1975 and was always stored in the same collection,in a dry garage,sitting side alfa's and others italian icons;this car is in stunning condition and i never seen a ferrari in this condition,the car is absolutely in perfect condition; NEVER RESTORED or REPAINTED..................the last owner has a mechanic at home and taked care of all cars of his collection and this car was started every week ,to be keeping in good using condition;

theses cars were unloved during a long time and now,there are growing up in value like all maserati and ferrari of this era,this is the time to buy this car and you can not found a better exemple actually on the market

the car has formely 53900 originals kms,and was just serviced with fluids and filters remplaced ,new battery,;personal inspection welcome,you can not be disappointed by the car

IF YOU LIKE THIS MODEL, THIS IS THE ONE you have to bought,of course the paint is perfect,no dings or scratchs,floor and underframe are perfect,ever the bumpers are perfect too; the leather original interior is in very good condition and smells good ,carpets are in excellent condition;

this car is viewing by appointment in my office,in Domont,france;20 kms from paris and aeroport charles de gaulle;you can come to inspect it ,you will enjoy it;of course there is no warranty on the car because of his age,;

internationals bidders are welcome and i can assist in shipping ,i can deliver the car to le havre port for free,overseas shipping at your own expense;

selling classic cars is my job,and bidding is not a joke,please do it seriously,have a look at my feedback,you will not be disappointed; i sold cars in all over the world for 10 years and i want to preserve my positive feedback;

when was the last time you found a one owner ferrari 365???? dont let your chance go away .....

a $1000 deposit will be required at the end of auction and balance will be required within 2 weeks...,if you have any questions ,please ask before bidding

good luck

If you're not as concerned with how people will view you and would rather have a taste of that Columbo V12 experience that made the Daytona and GTC/4 so special, this is a pretty similar car inside and underneath. It's rather funny, actually, that you can buy one of these for less than a replacement motor for a Daytona. I'm also surprised that these haven't all fallen victim to rebody efforts. Miles are lower, the color is pretty and understated, and it was apparently lovingly kept by a single owner. In terms of budget supercars, they don't get much more budget than this. Granted, it's not the best looking Ferrari ever made by any stretch of the imagination; but it has its own charm in the unloved child sort of way. I'd expect the reserve is set quite high for this model, towards the high side of the market which just brushes $60,000. Still, it's downright cheap compared to its siblings and offers a unique glimpse at classic Ferrari ownership.

-Carter

Ferrari

1985 Ferrari 308GTS Quattrovalvole

December 20, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

Often imitated, never duplicated. This is a mantra often associated with expensive luxury goods that lead to knock-off copies of the originals. The 1980s was a boon time for kit cars, one of the most copied being the Ferrari 308. After the Magnum P.I. series, everyone wanted a piece of the action with this Italian exotic, whether you were zooming down the main avenues of Manhattan or cruising along the Sunset Strip. This 308GTS for sale in California is a rare shade of Plum Metallic that adds a bit of subtlety to a car you would normally see in red or yellow, turning heads everywhere it goes.

Year: 1985
Model: 308GTS
Engine: 3.0 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 10,048 mi
Price: $68,888 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1985 Ferrari 308GTS Quattrovalvole

INCREDIBLE ONE OWNER, CALIFORNIA CAR, ORIGINAL PAINT, ORIGINAL INTERIOR, and FULLY DOCUMENTED. Possibly the finest 1985 Ferrari 308GTS on the market for sale. STUNNING PAINT IN PRUGNA METALLICA (Plum Metallic) over beige interior. Original books, original tools, original jack, original shop light, original spare tire. This car NEVER left the state of California and qualifies as a survivor with incredible provenance.

Normally you can find a later model 328 for sale around the $60,000 to $80,000 range, but this 308 has edged itself into that territory. Whether low mileage and an uncommon color is enough to bring the big money remains to be seen. Of the 308s, early fiberglass bodied examples and the later fuel-injected models with four valve heads like this one are the most desirable. At most, however, a 308 like this should bring somewhere in high $40k to low $50k range.

-Paul

Ferrari

A Trio of Ferrari 512TRs

November 18, 2013 Graham 5 Comments

The Ferrari Testarossa was the poster child for ‘80s era excesses. Few realize, however, that this wide-hipped, twelve cylinder bruiser lasted until 1995 through two model changeovers. My favorite of all of them, however, is the 512TR. Much like the 964 version of the Porsche 911, the 512TR smoothed out the classic Pininfarina formula with better integrated bumpers, updated alloy wheels and some updated interior trim and switchgear. At the request of one of our readers, Mark, let’s take a look at three different 512TRs for sale currently. First up is this red 1994 model for sale in California.

Year: 1994
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 21,700 mi
Price: $112,000 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1994 Ferrari 512TR

1994 Ferrari 512 TR Testarossa. Red exterior, Tan interior. ABS Brakes, custom clear engine cover, excellent condition with only 21,700 California only driven miles. A rare beauty, priced to sell. Please contact me with any questions. Serious buyers only. Local pickup only. I have many more pictures, please contact me and I will send them to you.

Next up we have a yellow 1992 512TR for sale in Northern Virginia.

Year: 1992
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 18,054 mi
Price: $109,900 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1992 Ferrari 512TR

1992 Ferrari 512TR. Only 18,084 actual miles! Extremely rare Giallo Fly Yellow exterior and Nero leather interior! This 512TR is 1 of 5 yellow Testarossa's listed on the Testarossa, 512TR, 512M registry.

This rare 512TR is absolutely drop dead gorgeous! It looks and smells like new, it has been meticulously maintained and just underwent an extensive engine out service that included the change of timing belts and bearings, valve adjustment, replacement of cam seals and replacement of all fluids at 17,800 miles on September 26, 2013! The service was performed by Blackhorse Motor Sports in Los Angeles California. As you know, this service is necessary and extremely important so you can have the level of confidence when purchasing this 512TR! The engine was also meticulously detailed during the service while the engine was out of the car.

The 512TR is considered an iconic Ferrari. There are very few Ferrari models that were built that boasted a rear V12 engine! This is one of the last of those rare models. The car drives beautifully and is in exceptional condition inside and out. Upgrades include Tubi exhaust, yellow Brembo brake calipers and a state of the art sound system by Sony that includes a removable face located in the hidden dash compartment.

The brakes work perfectly and the clutch is in excellent condition. All suspension components are in perfect condition. There are no known mechanical issues. The transmission shifts smoothly, the power windows and all console switches work as they should and the heat blows warm and the A/C blows cold! The doors, trunk and engine hatch open as new with no flaws. I would not hesitate to drive this car cross country!

This 512TR is an exceptional value and prices are expected to continue rising on these iconic vehicles since the rear engine V12 Ferrari is a rare breed. Please see my feedback and bid with confidence!

Lastly, we have this black 512TR for sale in St. Louis.

Year: 1993
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 16,782 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1993 Ferrari 512TR

You are viewing a superb example of the 1993 Ferrari 512 TR finished in Nero (solid Black) over Black leather. It has just arrived back with us from a much valued repeat-client of ours who purchased it from us in 2011. It is, as it was before, in absolutely fantastic cosmetic and mechanical condition both inside and out with everything operating as designed.

This 1993 512TR with just 16,782 miles driven from new has obviously been very well cared for in its entire twenty years and it is an absolute delight to drive. When we sold this 1993 512TR to our local Doctor client back in 2011 we performed the factory recommended services due at that time ‘by-the-book’ @15,776 miles totalling $9,941.15, pictures are shown from that time showing the engine out of the car and in our clean-room.

Please call me if you would like to discuss the service documentation as it is too much to list on this ad. The documentation I have, will of course come with the car when you take delivery. It comes complete with the original owner’s portfolio containing the owners manuals and service books plus the original window sticker in perfect condition is present.

The 512 was only brought into the USA for 3 model years and finding one just as nice as this must be very difficult. This one is has the must-have TR upgrade of (a polished stainless steel Tubi exhaust system) plus the modern convenience of a beautifully installed Passport rear view mirror with radar detector, speed reading sensors, GPS Navigation, Bluetooth telephone and Sirius Satellite radio.

* I can arrange enclosed delivery of this 512TR anywhere within days of our consummated transaction so please call me to determine your final cost.

* I can take your vehicle as a trade-in against this Ferrari, so please call me with the details and we can get the process started. Call Mark Wetzel of St. Louis Motorcars / Cell 314-853-2364

If it were my coin, I’d probably snag the black 512TR. True, Rosso Corsa is the classic Ferrari hue, but a sinister looking car calls for a stealth look. In any case though, these Testarossas from the early 1990s have me pining for the days of proper gated gearboxes and flamboyant styling cues that have either been watered down or eliminated in an era of ever tightening regulation.

-Paul

Ferrari

1974 Ferrari 365GT4 Convertible

November 2, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

The Ferrari 365GT4 has a bit of a reputation amongst enthusiasts and usually it’s not that good. After the massive impact the Daytona had when it came to front engined Ferrari V12s, this grand tourer was a bit forgettable especially in the wake of things to come like the Testarossa and 308/328 mid engined marvels. But how about this convertible 365GT4?

Year: 1974
Model: 365GT4 Convertible
Engine: 4.8 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 27,453 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1974 Ferrari 365GT4 Convertible

General info:
1974 Ferrari 365GT4 2+2 convertible
Chassis # 17675
27,453 miles
400i engine
5-speed
512BBi wheels
Red exterior
White interior
Bone carpets
Grey floor mats

Features:
Ferrari 400i V-12 engine.
Desirable 5-speed manual gearbox.
California smog exempt (1975 or older).
DOT exempt (1974 chassis).
Unique hide-a-way hydraulic convertible top folds into boot and features a smooth tonneau cover.
Full sized rear electric 1/4 windows.
Always professionally serviced by the same independent Ferrari mechanic since 1995.
Service documentation from 1995 to present.
Over $58,000 spent on professional services (see below).
This is a well sorted, professionally maintained car.
Fastidiously owned and cared for.
Needs nothing, everything works.
The convertible conversion and installation of the 400i motor was done decades ago ('80's) to a very high degree of quality.
No games, no stories. Buy with confidence.
You won't be disappointed. Don't let this one get away!
Southern California car.
Private party sale.
Ph. 562-697-4188
No warranty.

Condition:
Paint: excellent
Body: very good/excellent (dent in front bumper, hard to see in pictures, estimate $400 to repair)
Interior: very good/excellent
Dash: excellent
Mechanical: very good/excellent (small oil leak at front timing case, been there for years, not worth fixing)

Service History:
replace brake pads
replace brake hoses
rebuild rear brake calipers
replace brake booster hose
replace brake lamp switch
rebuild oil lines
upgrade starter
upgrade alternator
replace clutch
adjust timing chain
install MSD ignition
replace spark plugs
replace V-belts
rebuild distributor
tune-up
replace fuel accumulators
replace fuel injectors
replace fuel pumps
rebuild warm-up regulators
replace auxiliary air regulators
replace fuel level sending unit
install window accelerator modules
rebuild window regulators
replace hydraulic top pump
replace hydraulic top ram cylinders
replace rear suspension springs
replace shocks
4-wheel alignment
replace spare wheel & tire
install fire extinguisher
replace sun-visors
upgrade dash lights
install radio antenna
replace hazard switch
replace window switches
sort-out misc electrical
replace AC compressor
replace AC condenser
replace AC hoses
replace AC receiver/drier
replace AC expansion valve
replace battery
upgrade radiator fans
replace heater hoses
replace heater valve
install low temp radiator fan switch
replace defroster/heater fans
change fluids & filters

Recent eBay history:
The car was offered on eBay a few weeks ago but unfortunately the highest bidder could not perform due to "other unforeseen obligations"....... Nothing to due with the car.

One glaring omission in this ad is who carried out the conversion of this car, but I’d suspect it might have been Straman, as they lopped off a lot of roofs of luxury and sports cars during this era. A good 365GT4 of this era with the 5-speed manual gearbox will usually run you between $30,000 and $40,000. Whether you place a premium on a non-factory conversion such as this, even if it does add the charm of al fresco motoring, remains to be seen.

-Paul

Ferrari

1963 Ferrari 250GTE

November 1, 2013 Graham 1 Comment

Vintage Ferraris. The stuff dreams are made of, right? While I find folks my age (early 30s) swooning over the latest and greatest in sports car technology, there’s a simple elegance to cars such as this 250GTE for sale in Pennsylvania that have me gravitating towards them. This particular car was restored in the 1990s and has a detailed ownership history, with a large part of its life having existed on in the Northwest.

Year: 1963
Model: 250GTE
Engine: 3.0 liter V12
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 37,944 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1963 Ferrari 250GTE

We are pleased to offer 1963 Ferrari 250 GTE 2+2 Series III s/n 4585, the 809th of 955 GTEs built and the last of the 250 series Ferraris. A user-friendly Enzo-era Ferrari, 250 GTE s/n 4585 is an amazing survivor, finished in a very nice dark red (Original Rosso-Red) on an excellent body with older but excellent patina black leather over red carpets.

The Series III 250 GTEs feature the distinctive Cibie fog lights flared into the front lower body, one piece tail lights and the later, pressure cast cylinder heads with an improved valve angle and larger valves for more power. Has the original Cibie headlights and fog lights. In the Seattle area since the 1960s, 250 GTE s/n 4585 has a well-documented ownership history. Owned and restored by a wealthy and eccentric engineer in the late 1980s. Little used since and in storage for much of the last decade before coming to us from an estate-sale. The engine compartment has been gone through and detailed, showing extremely nice, the undercarriage is rust free (Washington/California car) with no previous damage. Recent freshening and Servicing, see details below...

250 GTE 2+2 Series III s/n 4585 has recently completed a detailed inspection & servicing by Symbolic Motors, San Diego, CA.

The engine compartment was cleaned, the old fuel was drained and all fluids were flushed including new engine oil, new oil filters, new fuel filters, new gear oil, new coolant and gas. The cylinders were bore-scoped and inspected. The Webers were removed, rebuilt and re-installed with new carb kits and flexible fuel lines. A new battery and new heater hose were installed. The master cylinder, the booster and all four calipers were rebuilt plus a new brake light switch, new front and rear brake pads and new rubber brake hoses were installed and all four brake rotors were re-machined. The front wheel bearings were cleaned and re-packed. The brake rotor centers and calipers were painted. Four new track rod bushings, a new drive shaft U-joint and a new rubber donut, a new tie rod end and a new transmission rubber mount were fitted. The transmission was removed and re-installed with a rebuilt clutch disc, a new throw out bearing and a new rear main seal.

The door handles came off and were polished. Five new Dunlop SP50 205 tires and tubes (including the spare) were installed. The Borrani wire wheels were polished and balanced. The rebuilt Webers are nicely synchronized and adjusted. Total invoices are $18,000. Copies of the service invoices and Dunlop tires are with the car.

The ownership and recent service are well documented and 250 GTE s/n 4585 is a joy to drive and ready to go. Nicely detailed cosmetics, including newly re-chromed Front and Rear bumpers and tail light trim, an additional $3k spent. The gearbox shifts smoothly, up and down, even when cold. The overdrive works well and shifts into and out of overdrive instantly and is complemented by new brakes and a suspension with everything working well. No smoke, minimal oil leak issues, great oil pressure. We reserve the right to end auction early, as it is available internationally.

MASSINI REPORT:

S/n 4585. 250 GTE 2+2 Series 3. Pininfarina Body no. 68506. Engine tipo 128/F. Chassis tipo 508/63. 1963 build date. 809th GTE built (including prototypes), the 155th Series III built of 955 cars in total. The Series III 250 GTE begin with chassis number 4093 and had the bigger heads and valves.

Destination: Italauto, Italy.

1960s, late, with John Keleher, Seattle, WA.

1976, to Dick Thimen, Seattle, WA.

1985, January, with Sam J. Allotta, a Lawyer, Tacoma, WA.

1990s, with Conner Malot, Spokane, WA. He also owned a 308, two 330 GTCs, a 275 GTB/4 and multiple other Ferraris. 250 GTE s/n 4585 was repainted and mechanically restored by Dennis Luckey, Spokane, WA.

sold to Dione Bishop, Spokane, WA, 99201.

2003–2013, in storage in Spokane, WA.

2013, 01 Feb., owner deceased and 250 GTE s/n 4585 was offered to Ferrari of Seattle. Brakes are stuck, tires are old, battery is bad, etc.

2013, February–March, serviced by Bill Pearson and Jason Lemberg, Symbolic Motors, 11455 Sorrento Valley Road, San Diego, CA 92121. Detailed pre-sale inspection. Degreased engine and under car. Drained old fuel. Flushed all fluids including filled with new engine oil, new oil filters, new fuel filter, new gear oil, coolant and gas. Removed, cleaned and regapped all 12 spark plugs. Bore scope inspected and photographed cylinders. New fuel line, new carb kits, removed, rebuilt and reinstalled Webers. New heater hose. Fitted new battery. Rebuilt brakes including rebuild of all four calipers, rebuilt master cylinder, new brake light switch, new front and rear brake pads, new brake rubber hoses, turned all four brake rotors. Cleaned and packed front wheel bearings. Painted brake rotor centers and calipers. Fitted four new track rod bushings, installed new drive shaft rubber donut, installed new tie rod end and transmission rubber mount, removed and reinstalled transmission, rebuilt clutch disc. Removed and refitted door handles, polished both handles. Installed four new Dunlop SP50 205 tires and tubes, balanced wheels. Total invoices $18,000.

These GTEs always strike me as interesting Ferraris. They have a bit of touring grace a'la Aston Martin or Bentley versus the more racy stuff we normally relate the manufacturer with. Around $225,000 to $275,000 is about the sweet spot for GTEs in good nick these days, so I'd suspect this one to fall somewhere within the range. The best of the best would bring a little over $300,000.

-Paul

Ferrari

1999 Ferrari F550 Maranello

September 17, 2013 Graham 4 Comments

I’m sure all of us would love to do the commute in an exotic from time to time, to break up the monotony of the week. But let’s face it, just how practical is that? There’s a reason you don’t see Ferraris and Lamborghinis being used regularly. While the new models are undoubtedly more reliable, efficient and comfortable, the classics can be tempermental and difficult to deal with in traffic. Someone, however, decided to ignore convention, because this 1999 Ferrari F550 Maranello for sale in California is closing in on 80,000. The car has had the recently 30,000 mile service with the coolant pipe update which should assuage some reliability fears over the short term.

Year: 1999
Model: F550 Maranello
Engine: 5.5 liter V12
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 76,203 mi
Price: $52,900 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1999 Ferrari F550 Maranello

Great chance to get into a 550 Maranello at a good price. I was unsure of the service history and the cam seals were leaking a little on the car so I sent it to have a complete 30K service performed along with the coolant pipe update. This 550 will literally come with a brand new major service. If you are looking for a concourse car this is not your Ferrari if you are looking for a nice, straight 550 that you can drive and enjoy this is a great car for you. I had the car inspected prior to purchase since I was unable to talk with the previous owner, I am happy to forward this inspection to any interested buyer. After the car was inspected I drove the car 300 miles down to my home on the central coast and I was very pleased. The AC blew cold, everything worked properly and the car stayed cool while I sat in traffic for a hour on the 101. The clutch is good and has plenty of life, all of the power functions worked like they should the transmission was smooth and the motor is strong and I think a little faster than mine. I was personally at the shop while I had it inspected and racked. The front brakes and rotors are like new and the tires have over 65% life left.

The right rocker panel does have a few dents that you can only see when the car is up in the air. The springs have been upgraded with a Eibach lowering sprint set on the factory coilover that brings the car down about 1", this 550 also has a very nice set of headers on the car along with a harness bar for a set of 5 point belts other than that the car is stock. While I had the car inspected I did have the fluids changed just to be safe and a complete saftey perfored along with a California smog which is passed perfectly. The front bumper does have rock chips along with a few on the hood, nothing that cannot be touched up. I personally feel that the 550 is one of the most reliable Ferraris built this car will make someone a great driver. All questions are welcome along with any inspections that you would like to have done locally, all inspections must be performed prior to the ending of the sale. This car has a clean carfax and will be available to prospective buyers. Anyone with 0 or negative feedback must email me prior to bidding or I will cancel your bid. Thanks for looking at my auction.

At just over $50,000, it’s rather tempting to think you can get into a grand touring Ferrari of recent vintage for brand new Mercedes-Benz or Lexus money. However, as with all exotics, your repair bills will be much more than those other luxury marques. Still, I appreciate the fact that this F550 looks so good after logging this amount of distance. To be honest, I’d probably take this F550 over a creampuff any day of the week, as I wouldn’t feel guilty using it as intended. So what if it has a few scratches and scuffs here or there? If you maintain it as intended and keep up with the cosmetics well enough, this is a car that would surely appreciate if kept in original condition.

-Paul

Ferrari

1995 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta

August 27, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

The Ferrari F355 was an amalgamation of firsts and lasts. This was the first Ferrari to feature five valves per cylinder and showcased the new F1 paddle shift gearbox. It would be the last mid-engined Ferrari to feature the instantly recognizable flying buttress rear end featured on so many mid-engined throughout the years. But above all, this was perhaps one of the most beautiful Ferraris of recent memory, with the famous wedge shape of the eighties having been smoothed out for the nineties before things got wild in the new millenium. This F355 looks stunning in Rosso Metallizzato, which resembles Alfa Romeo's Rosso Vinaccia.

Year: 1995
Model: F355 Berlinetta
Engine: 3.5 liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 24,800 mi
Price: $59,000 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1995 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta

1995 Ferrari 355 Berlinetta. 6 speed, 24,800 miles. Original two owner car in rare Rosso Metallizzato. Car has recently had its "engine out" belt service with only 400 miles added to the odometer since completed. This is a fully documented, complete example of a desirable 355. Its equipped with a Tubi exhaust that makes the most beautiful music you have ever heard. You wont be able to sneak home driving this one. It has two items that need attention to make it "Show Ready" which are as follows: (1) The emergency brake boot has started to come apart at the seams, and needs to be replaced or re-stitched. (2) The switch surrounds have been effected by the "sticky" issues that is common with these cars. They can be restored for about $600 for the complete set. If your looking for an extremely clean 6 speed coupe with service history, I would find it hard to believe you will find a nicer one. Pre Purchase inspections are always welcomed, and encouraged. I can assist in shipping anywhere in the world, and with importation in the United States.

While there are some small trim items that need attention, this 6-speed F355 presents rather well in this unusual color. Prices have dipped a bit on F355s in the last few years but seem to be climbing again for well kept examples that are equipped attractively. I'd say this F355 is not far off the mark, but somewhere in the low $50,000 territory is probably more like it given current values.

-Paul