Broad Arrow Auctions has announced an early highlight of next year’s Amelia Auction, a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione. As the rare alloy-bodied example, with Le Mans pedigree, it’s estimated to sell for $10-14 million – potentially making it the most expensive car ever offered by the auction house.
Chassis 1451 GT is one of just eight aluminum-bodied California Spider Competizione examples ever produced and the first to feature a competition-spec, outside-plug Type 128 F engine. This engine utilises high-compression pistons to deliver 262 bhp, and is paired with a Type 508 D ribbed gearbox, an external oil cooler and long-range fuel tank for added endurance capability on track.
Built in June 1959, the car made its racing debut five days later at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving fifth-place overall and third in class. Driven by American racer Robert “Bob” Grossman and Fernand Tavano under Luigi Chinetti’s N.A.R.T. banner, it remains the most successful California Spider in period competition.
After its Le Mans success, the car returned to the Ferrari factory to be finished in metallic silver, a livery it retains today. Grossman continued to race the car in the United States through 1959 and 1960, achieving additional victories that showcased its versatility. In later decades, it became a fixture in historic racing and concours events, including multiple appearances at Pebble Beach, most recently in 2024.
The California Spider’s provenance is supported by Ferrari Classiche certification, which confirms the preservation of its original components through careful restorations.
This California Spider is set to be a highlight of Amelia Island’s 2025 auction week, with the auction set to take place on 7-8 March 2025 at the Ritz-Carlton.
