The 250 GTE 2+2 was a step in a new direction for Ferrari. As the first four-seater Ferrari to enter large-scale production (by Ferrari’s standards), the 250 GTE 2+2 intended to draw clients that had previously never considered a Ferrari towards the Prancing Horse. Interestingly enough, a prototype 250 GTE debuted at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1960, hinting at the car’s endurance capabilities, reliability, and sporting heritage. The production version debuted at the Paris Salon later that year. By the time production had ended in 1963, nine hundred fifty-seven 250 GTEs had been constructed, leaving no doubt to the success of this particular model in the Ferrari line up.

The GTE shares the same wheelbase with its more sporting cousin, the legendary 250 GT LWB Tour de France. Equipped with a version of the legendary Colombo V-12, top speed was just over 140 mph. Engineers moved the car’s V-12 forward and widened the track of all four wheels, increasing interior space significantly and making for an immensely comfortable car. Pininfarina clothed the GTEs in a fantastic steel body and aluminium doors, bonnet, and boot lid.

At first, many enthusiasts ignored the GTE, regarding it as a lesser automobile due to its four seats and virtually no racing pedigree. In recent times, however, many tifosi have come to realise that the model is a fantastic car in its own right. Many have proven to be rock-solid and reliable over long distances, easily capable of chauffeuring four passengers and their luggage long distances in high style.

This GTE was produced in 1963 as a Series III model and originally finished in Grigio Fumo 20294 Italver with beige leather interior. It was sold new in 1963 to a Mr Ranetti, in Turin, Italy. By 1985, the car had immigrated to California, where it changed hands once more within the state before coming to rest with its current owner in a collection of multiple Ferraris. Currently finished in Rosso Corsa with a beige interior, it is a good candidate for a minor cosmetic and mechanical restoration, as it has been stationary for some time. The exterior requires some attention, and a few areas of chrome and paintwork could use some selective refinishing, but the interior remains largely original and correct, and the car retains its original engine. After being stored in a museum for several years, the car has recently benefitted from a slight service.

The 250 GTE 2+2 on sale today is a fine example of a Series III model that was produced in the car’s final year and mated to its original engine. As understated as any Ferrari can be in red, this GTE combines mid-1960s elegance with Ferrari’s iconic 250 platform.