32 hp, 250 cc SOHC single-cylinder engine and four-speed transmission.

The Ducati F3 motorcycles, from 1958–1962, were developed in 125-cubic centimeter, 175-cubic centimeter, and eventually 250-cubic centimeter displacement. All gained enclosed valve springs and the larger bikes had an improved twin-leading shoe Amadoro brake. Steering head angles and rear suspensions were altered to improve handling and larger megaphone exhausts were fitted. The bikes were longer and lower, the engine cases were sand-cast, the gears were straight-cut, and almost no parts were interchangeable with street bikes.

This F3 is one of a small number of bikes prepared by Ducati for privateer racers, based upon works machines. Franco Villa won a supporting race at the 1958 Italian Grand Prix at Monza on a 175-cubic centimeter F3, and later put Ducati on the map in the U.S., with a very successful tour on a 250-cubic centimeter F3. Despite often carrying lights and a kickstart, F3s were built purely for racing. According to his brother, this example belonged to Walter Villa, one of the most famous GP racers of the 1960s and ’70s. Villa won four GP titles in 250 and 350 classes in 1974, 1975, and 1976.