An Italian gran turismo of inimitable style, the 250 GT Lusso seamlessly combined the finest qualities of Ferrari engineering with the elegance and restraint of Pininfarina design. Introduced at the 1962 Paris Motor Show, the Lusso was envisioned as a more refined successor to the sporting 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, offering clients a road car that emphasized comfort and beauty without compromising performance.

As the final iteration of the legendary 250 GT series, the Lusso marked the culmination of over a decade of continuous development. Built on a 2,400 mm wheelbase chassis and fitted with Ferrari’s potent three-liter Colombo V-12, the Lusso boasted a top speed in excess of 140 mph, all while delivering a civilized driving experience. It featured four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, a fully independent front suspension, and a live rear axle located by trailing arms and a Watt’s linkage – an improvement derived directly from Ferrari’s 250 GTO.

The Lusso’s calling card, however, has always been its arresting design. The sensuous lines, penned by Battista “Pinin” Farina and executed in steel by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, feature a delicately curved beltline, subtly flared fenders, and a Kamm tail – details that give the car a sense of poised dynamism. Its minimal chrome trim, slim pillars, and expansive greenhouse lend an understated sophistication. As GM design chief Chuck Jordan once observed, “Pininfarina’s Ferrari Berlinetta Lusso exhibits for all time that transformation of form and function into the spiritual presence by which great art transcends mere art.”

Only 350 Lussos were built between 1963 and 1964, ensuring its rarity. Revered by collectors and enthusiasts from the outset, the Lusso’s reputation has only grown with time, bolstered by its associations with 1960s icons such as Steve McQueen, who famously owned one. Today, the model is widely regarded as one of the most beautifully designed Ferraris ever built, occupying a unique place between the marque’s pure competition machines and luxurious, custom-bodied grand tourers.

The history of chassis 4945 GT begins in August 1963, when it was completed at the Ferrari factory. As documented by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini, this European-specification Lusso – the 101st built – was finished in Rosso (Italver 19374) over Beige Connolly leather and delivered new through official dealer Interauto S.p.A. to its first owner, Ermanno Montorsi of Modena. Registered as “MO 95716,” the car soon passed to Pubblicità Fraire S.r.l. in Rome and was serviced by Ferrari’s Assistenza Clienti department in November 1963, then showing 3,010 km.

In 1964, chassis 4945 GT was imported into the US, where it was first owned by noted collector Peter G. Sachs. After a brief period in Sachs’ care, it passed through Arcal Imported Cars in Massachusetts and remained in the state until at least 1976. It subsequently found its way to New York, where it was owned by Charles D. Casarella of Pound Ridge.

Roughly 25 years ago, the Lusso was acquired by Bradley Hoyt of Minneapolis, a dedicated enthusiast and vintage racer whose collection included other notable Ferraris, such as a 330 GTC, 275 GTB/4, and even a 1969 312 Formula 1 car. Mr. Hoyt refinished the Lusso in its current, elegant black over black color scheme and enjoyed it on fair-weather weekend outings. Upon his passing, 4945 GT was sold to the current owner.

Presented today in well-kept, driver-quality condition, the car is offered with its matching-numbers engine (internal no. 1488/62 E), a tool roll, owner’s manual, and a Massini report with copies of the period Italian registration documents.

A truly captivating example of Ferrari’s grand touring legacy, 4945 GT embodies the enduring appeal of the Lusso: timeless design, mechanical purity, and refined road manners. Whether enjoyed as a rolling sculpture, a candidate for vintage rallies, or a highlight of any distinguished collection, this Lusso offers the rare opportunity to acquire a Ferrari of grace, pedigree, and lasting significance.