Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso to Cross the Block at RM Arizona Sale
A rare Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso, one of only 350 built, will be offered by RM Auctions in Arizona this January, drawing interest from collectors worldwide.
RM Auctions will offer a Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso at its Arizona sale on 16–17 January 2014, presenting collectors with a rare chance to acquire one of Maranello’s most celebrated grand tourers. The Lusso, produced in just 350 examples between 1962 and 1964, is regarded as one of the most elegant Ferraris of the era.
Overview of the Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso
The Ferrari 250 GT/L, also known as the Lusso, occupies a significant place in Ferrari’s history. It was introduced at the 1962 Paris Motor Show and produced until 1964, marking the final road-going model in the 250 series. Its name, “Lusso”, means luxury in Italian, reflecting the car’s focus on comfort and refinement as well as performance. The Lusso’s production was limited to just 350 units, which has contributed to its enduring desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
Design and Engineering
Styled by Pininfarina and bodied by Scaglietti, the Lusso combined the proven mechanicals of the 250 series with a more refined, luxurious interior and a distinctive fastback profile. Its proportions and flowing lines are still celebrated as some of the most attractive in Ferrari’s history. The shorter wheelbase, compared to earlier 250 GTs, contributed to more agile handling, while the cabin featured leather upholstery and a dashboard layout unique to the model.
The Lusso’s design not only provided aesthetic appeal but also improved comfort for long-distance touring. The interior was more spacious than its predecessors, and the use of high-quality materials set a new standard for Ferrari’s road cars at the time. The fastback rear and Kamm tail design enhanced aerodynamics, while the large glasshouse offered excellent visibility.
Mechanical Specification and Provenance
Under the bonnet, the Lusso uses Ferrari’s 2,953cc Colombo V12 engine, fitted with triple Weber carburettors and producing a claimed 240hp. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. This combination provided strong performance for its era, with a top speed in excess of 140 mph and smooth power delivery characteristic of Ferrari’s V12 engines.
The car being auctioned has a documented history, having passed through six owners and undergone a full restoration, according to RM’s listing. This provenance and attention to detail in restoration are important factors for collectors, as originality and condition can significantly influence a car’s desirability and value.
| Engine | 2,953cc Colombo V12 |
|---|---|
| Carburettors | Triple Weber |
| Power output | 240hp (claimed) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Production run | 1962–1964 |
| Total built | 350 |
Collector Appeal and Auction Context
The Lusso’s combination of rarity, design pedigree and mechanical lineage has made it a fixture at international auctions. In recent years, 250-series Ferraris have attracted significant attention and high bids, with headline figures achieved by models such as the 250 GT California and 250 GTO. While the Lusso is less focused on outright performance than those cars, its status as the final evolution of the 250 GT line and its Pininfarina styling ensure continued demand from collectors.
- Recent auction results for 250-series Ferraris include the 1961 250 GT California and the 1957 250 Testa Rossa, which set a €9 million auction record.
- The Lusso’s blend of elegance and sporting heritage appeals to those seeking both beauty and a connection to Ferrari’s golden era.
- As the last of the classic 250 GTs, the Lusso is often seen as a bridge between Ferrari’s racing past and its later grand touring models.
RM Auctions has not published a pre-sale estimate for the Lusso at the time of writing. However, the model’s track record and the quality of the example on offer are likely to attract international interest when bidding opens in Arizona. The combination of limited production, restoration quality, and documented history makes this Lusso a particularly attractive prospect for collectors.
Conclusion: A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
The upcoming RM Auctions event in Arizona offers a rare opportunity to acquire a Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso with a well-documented history and a full restoration. With its celebrated design, V12 engine, and limited production, the Lusso remains one of the most coveted grand tourers ever produced by Ferrari. Whether purchased for enjoyment on the road or as part of a collection, the Lusso’s enduring appeal is assured.
