To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Milan event, 22 May 2025.

• The 170th out of 200 examples built
• Retains its matching-numbers engine, rear axle, and coachwork; fitted with a non-matching, correct-type gearbox
• Benefits from a 2013 restoration performed by Toni Auto in Maranello ahead of the Ferrari specialist rebuilding the V-12 in 2019
• Refinished in its factory-correct colour combination of Grigio Scuro over Blu Franzi leather
• Documented with its factory build record; restoration invoices and photos, plus a history report by marque expert Marcel Massini

At the 1959 Paris Salon, Ferrari introduced a new open-top 250 GT that further delineated the cabriolet’s identity as a refined grand-touring machine. In addition to revised Pininfarina styling, the updated model featured mechanical advancements such as disc brakes, overdrive, and the latest version of the Colombo “short-block” V-12. This Tipo 128E engine featured spark plugs relocated outside the V for easier maintenance, a feature that had borne great fruit in the legendary 250 Testa Rossa sports racers. With only 200 examples built, the second-series Pininfarina Cabriolet showcased rarity, beauty, and brawn, making it the preferred Ferrari of many jet set enthusiasts.

This beautifully restored 250 GT Cabriolet continues to display the benefits of a thorough 2013 refurbishment to the original factory colour combination. According to a history report by marque expert Marcel Massini, chassis number 3449 GT was factory-finished in Grigio Scuro paint over an interior trimmed in Blu leather by Franzi. Completed by Pininfarina in early-May 1962, the 250 GT was distributed to Franco-Britannic Autos Ltd of Levallois-Perret—France’s first exclusive Ferrari importer. The car was then sold new to a resident of Milan named Cirano Bargi, possibly the son of the noted clothier and racing sponsor Foresto Bargi.

Although the Ferrari’s early history is currently unknown, by July 1994 the Cabriolet was offered for sale in Cavallino magazine by a California-based seller. By this point, the car had been cosmetically changed to a nero-over-rosso colour scheme. In 2013 the 250 GT was treated to a comprehensive restoration by the highly respected Toni Auto in Maranello, including a repaint in the proper Grigio Scuro and reupholstery in Blu leather.

Acquired in the following years by the consignor, the Ferrari returned to Toni Auto in 2019 for a rebuild of the V-12 engine, which displays stampings that indicate it is the matching-numbers unit. It is worth noting that the car also retains the matching-numbers rear axle and coachwork, and that the non-matching gearbox is of the correct type. In May 2024 the 250 GT received further freshening work from the well-regarded Classics & Sportcars division of Kestenholz Automobil AG in Pratteln, Germany, as clarified by invoices on file.

Ideally prepared for driving enjoyment or use on rallies and touring events, the Ferrari is also beautifully presented, making it a strong candidate for exhibition at local concours d’elegance and marque gatherings. Noteworthy features include the wood-rimmed steering wheel and proper French-regulation yellow headlamp bulbs, in a nod to the car’s original point of distribution.

Regardless of application, this authentically restored Cabriolet is a highly desirable example of one of Ferrari and Pininfarina’s most seminal collaborations, and a surefire complement to any sporting collection.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/ml25/.