THE GT SERIES II CABRIOLETS

As the 250 GT model line continued to develop at the twilight of 1959, Ferrari introduced a second generation of its Pininfarina-bodied luxury cabriolets, essentially a grand touring version of the concurrent competition-derived 250 California Spider. Featuring four-wheel disc brakes and the outside-plug engine developed during the Testa Rossa campaigns, the new cabriolet was the most tractably powerful 250 GT to date, claiming both fine road manners and strong performance.

Only 200 examples of the second-series cabriolets were built, lending the model equal parts rarity and elegance. These mid-production 250 GTs offer the best of both ends of the spectrum, as their striking open coachwork envelops more modern chassis components in a combination that today’s collectors can particularly enjoy on vintage touring events. Officially, the 250 GT Cabriolets were designated by the “GTF” prefix affixed to their chassis plate.

250 GTF CHASSIS 2533

Chassis 2533, offered here, is documented by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini as the 127th Series II Cabriolet produced between 1959 and 1962. Factory records show that 2533 received its Pininfarina bodywork on 28 June 1961 and returned to Maranello, where it remained until September. 2533 was painted Grigio Conchiglia (MM 16.249) over a Pelle Blu (VM 3087) and delivered new to the premises of dealer Vincenzo Malago within Rome. 2533’s first owner of record is Renato Stefani di Canegina of nearby Viterbo. In 1965 the car was sold to its second Italian owner and subsequently exported to the United States where it was noted with a California owner by 1973.

After at least 13 years spent in California, 2533 returned to Europe via the Swiss collector and financier Edgard Mannheimer of Zurich; by this point in time, 2533 car had shed its original finishes for a Red exterior and beige upholstery. Mannheimer sold 2533 within the year to the Belgian tifosi Maurice Harlaux out of Brussels. Harlaux retained the car for several years and showed it several times during his ownership. The most notable of these exhibitions occurred in September 1992 at the FF40 Ferrari Francorchamps International Concours d’Elegance in Brussels. In December 1998, 2533 GT was acquired by an owner residing in the Netherlands, through whom it soon passed to an Italian Ferrari collector.

2533 earned certification from Ferrari Classiche in April 2013, thereby confirming the presence of all major factory-provided components. Shortly thereafter, the car was sold to a California-based collector, exported from Italy, and treated to a complete restoration from which 2533 still benefits today. During this extensive restoration, the car was returned to its factory-correct color combination of Grigio Conchiglia over a stunning Pelle Blu leather with matching cloth top. For ultimate all-weather touring capability, look no further than the matching Series II hard top which accompanies 2533.

Perched upon a fresh set of Michelin Defender tires and Borrani wire wheels cast in July 1961, 2533 is quite the sight. A single Talbot-style mirror frames the driver’s side door, while a period-correct Autovox radio works in tandem with a trunk-mounted Hirschmann automatic antenna to ensure optimal cabin audio—when not listening to the open-air soundtrack of the sonorous V-12 engine. The only noted safety update is the addition of an additional brake light affixed to the rear bumper.

This attractive and meticulously restored 250 GT Cabriolet is now accompanied by its Classiche Red Book, previous Italian registrations, tool roll, spare wheel, and manuals.

A true gentleman’s Ferrari, 2533 would be a prime candidate to be exhibited at international concours, FCA events, or would simply be a wonderful cabriolet for the driving enthusiast looking to experience Ferrari performance and luxury at its finest.