At the 1960 Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari revealed a new car based on the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB, the Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider. It is an extremely rare car which makes it a highly desirable collector’s car. One example, actually the first ever produced and one of four in the world, is owned by former German football player Michael Ballack. Now this car will be auctioned in August, and the estimated value is $16,000,000 – $18,000,000 USD.

“It is extremely difficult to come across a car as interesting to collectors as this California Spider. An icon among icons that has a unique place in Ferrari history, as it is the first 250 GT SWB California Spider ever built. It was even in the Ferrari window at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show,” said an RM Sotheby’s spokesperson.

This 250 GT SWB California Spider is powered by a competition-spec Tipo 168 engine that enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.2 seconds with a top speed of 233 km/h (145 mph).

The car is in excellent condition and is equipped with covered headlights and factory removable hardtop, and comes with Ferrari Classiche Red Book certified with original ‘numbers matching’ engine, gearbox, rear axle and bodywork.

Ballack was close friend with Michael Schumacher, which had an impact on the growth of his passion for motorsport and the Ferrari brand.

Source: RM Sotheby’s

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