In 1986, Ferrari unveiled the 288 GTO Evoluzione model with more aggressive and aerodynamic body styling and increased power compared to the standard 288 GTO. The car was made to race in Group B (set of regulations for GT cars used in sports car racing and rallying introduced in 1982 by the FIA). Ferrari’s intention was to produce 20 examples, but since Group B was cancelled, only 5 cars were produced. One of them, a 1987 Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione, will be auctioned next month.

The body, designed by Pininfarina, is made of Kevlar and fiberglass, while the rear wing is made of carbon fiber, reducing the car’s weight to under 1,000 kg (940 kg). Chassis number 79888 is the fourth of five remaining 288 GTO Evoluzione’s built.

At the end of 1988, the car was bought by Belgian racing driver and businessman Jean Blaton, and it remained in his possession until 1992, when it was sold to Garage Francorchamps and Jacques Swaters. After that, the car changed several owners before being sold to its current European owner three years ago.

Before the auction sale, the car underwent cosmetic and mechanical work that cost €133,000. The car wears the original Rosso Corsa. Dashboard covers, seat covers, seat belts, door windows, mirror glass, fuel lines, oil lines, brake fuel lines, and driveshaft boots were replaced. Suspension dampers, brake calipers, water pump, both turbos and gearbox were repaired.

The Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione is powered by a 2.9L twin-turbo V8 engine with 650 hp (485 kW) and 492 ft-lb (667 Nm) of torque. That’s enough power for the car to reach a top speed of 230 mph (370 km/h). Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox.

The auction will take place from 19 – 21 October 2022.

Source: RM Sotheby’s