The Legendary Ferrari 250 LM: A Racing Icon
Introduction
The Ferrari 250 LM is not just a remarkable car; it’s a symbol of racing history. This legendary vehicle achieved victory at the challenging 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1965, an event many believed it couldn’t win—not even Enzo Ferrari himself. Recently, this very car was auctioned and set a record for being the most expensive Ferrari ever sold at auction, with a sale price that astonished many.
A Record-Breaking Auction
At the prestigious RM Sotheby’s auction in Paris, the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM was sold for a staggering $36.3 million. This significant sale underlines not just the car’s historical importance but also its position among the most valuable Ferraris ever auctioned.
Key Highlights:
- Auction Price: $36.3 million
- Historical Significance: It won the Le Mans race in 1965.
- Status: Most expensive Ferrari sold at auction (excluding the 250 GTO).
Why the 250 LM Matters
The 250 LM was the sixth example of its kind, known as chassis 5893. It was initially prepared to race at Le Mans for the North American Racing Team (N.A.R.T.). Interestingly, Ferrari was a small operation at the time, only able to produce 32 road versions of the 250 LM.
Production Challenges:
- Enzo Ferrari had to meet regulations from the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) to classify the 250 LM for the Group 3 GT class.
- He was required to produce at least 100 units over a year but submitted late and didn’t reach that number.
- Consequently, the car entered Le Mans in the prototype class.
Strengths of the 250 LM
While the 250 LM was heavier and less powerful than its competitors, such as the Ford GT40 and Cobra Daytona, it excelled in cornering and was highly reliable. These qualities were crucial for surviving the demanding race conditions.
The Iconic 1965 Le Mans Win
Driven by the talented duo Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt, chassis 5893 made history with its overall win at Le Mans in 1965. This victory became even more critical as it marked the last time Ferrari claimed an overall win at this prestigious endurance race.
The Journey After Le Mans
After its historic win, the Ferrari 250 LM continued to compete in various prestigious races, including:
- 24 Hours of Daytona: 1966 and 1968
- 24 Hours of Le Mans: 1966 and 1969
- Final Race: 1970 24 Hours of Daytona
In 1970, following its last race, the car was sold by N.A.R.T. team owner Luigi Chinetti.
Life After Racing
After being retired from racing, the 250 LM found a new home at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where it was proudly displayed. It didn’t just stay in one place; it traveled to notable events, earning accolades like the "Best in Show" award at the prestigious Concours de Sport in 2023. After over fifty years, the museum decided to part ways with the car to enhance its collection and restoration efforts.
Auction Highlights
Chassis 5893 became a significant piece of automotive history when it sold for $10 million more than expected. The auction witnessed a dramatic spike in bids in the final minutes, solidifying its place as the most expensive 250 LM sold and ranking it as the sixth most expensive car ever sold at auction. The buyer remains a mystery.
Conclusion
The journey of the Ferrari 250 LM has been nothing short of extraordinary. Initially seen as an underdog, it overcame challenges to become a true champion at the 1965 Le Mans race. Its transition from Ferrari to N.A.R.T. and later to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum adds to its allure as a prized collector’s item. With such a rich racing pedigree and an astonishing auction price, the 250 LM stands as a remarkable testament to automotive history and excellence.
