Fantasy Junction

Description

1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L “Lusso”
s/n 4735, Engine stamped 4735 (interno 1596/62E)
Pino Verde with Tan Leather Interior

An iconic example of Italian coach builder Pininfarina’s work, the 250 GT/L “Lusso” remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing Ferrari road cars ever produced. Using Ferrari’s venerable and fully developed 3.0 liter V12 engine and driveline combination, the Lussos achieve mechanical sophistication while remaining simple enough to be reliable. Very much the road going counterpart to Ferrari’s multi-million dollar 250 Short Wheel Base, and with just 350 of these achingly beautiful cars built, it is with good reason that the Lussos have enjoyed fantastic appreciation in recent years.

This particular car has much known history, having spent many years in Europe. It was acquired by Swiss collector Erich Traber in approximately 1983 from its previous owner, a Dino Cognolato, in Italy. Prior to that, it had belonged to Pietro Brigato and a Mr. O. Barchi, in Italy and Southern Switzerland respectively. Mr. Traber had an engine rebuild performed in 1990 by a highly regarded race mechanic (Markus at Graber Sportgarage AG), though the valves then available were flawed, which necessitated the car’s recent engine rebuild. Mr. Traber sold the car to Jack Braam Ruben in 2003, who serviced the car extensively, and then sold the car to a prominent and meticulous Ferrari collector, in 2004 through Fantasy Junction. During his ownership the car was serviced in a no expense spared fashion by well known Ferrari expert Lee Stayton of Miller Motorcars.

The car comes with receipts back to the 1990 engine rebuild. More recently, in 2004, the car received a complete engine rebuild by Patrick Ottis, including all main components such as JE pistons, intake and exhaust valves, guides, seals, valve seats, and bearings. The rebuild also included the renewal of the complete fueling system, including fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel tank. The ancillaries were also rebuilt, including water pump, generator, oil pump, and distributors. The correct finishes were applied, including the black crackle finish to the valve covers. The exhaust manifolds were high temperature coated inside and out, and countless other jobs performed. The total for this work was $47,853.36. Since that work was completed the car has covered about 3,400km (2,100 miles), during which time, the car has had much other work performed, including rebuilding of all four shock absorbers, restoration of the springs, and replacement of bushings. The carburetors were also rebuilt, the rear axles resealed, brake pads replaced, and gearbox and differential oil changed. The total for this work was $16,091.45.

The car is in nicely mellowed cosmetic condition, with very high quality paintwork, likely performed by its previous owner, Mr. Cognolato, who is well-known in enthusiast circles for his superlative restoration work at Epifani. The paintwork has survived well, with a handful of small chips and blemishes over straight panels. The overall impression is still extremely strong, particularly given the car’s stunning color, an original period Ferrari hue. The chrome is in good overall condition, though critical inspection shows light aging. The wheels are the correct deep dish Borrani wires. The glass and lamps are in very fine shape, including the Marchal headlamps.

The interior has a nice consistent patina that is just right. The seats and door panels have light creasing, while the dashboard is in great shape, with no shrinkage in evidence. The instruments, trim, and switches are in fine shape, as are the carpets. The steering wheel has a few small signs of aging upon close inspection, but is very good on the whole. The general atmosphere of the interior is that unmatchable sense of a historic automobile car that has been carefully preserved and well-cared for, rather than having been recently and immaculately restored.

The engine compartment is tidy and clean, and shows much evidence of proper maintenance and care. It is important to note that this engine is stamped 4735, with a numero interno of 1596/62E, which while consistent with Ferrari’s records from this era, it does not specifically match this chassis number. The trunk is clean and attractive, and contains a full set of vary impressive Edi Wyss tools and bag, as well as the jack and bag.

This is a superb opportunity to acquire an attractive and usable example of one of the all time great Ferrari road cars. It has had a great deal of money spent on it recently to ensure that it is in top running condition, and is extremely attractive in its unusual and stunning color combination. Thus, with its great cosmetic condition, and recent comprehensive service, this would make an ideal car to use and enjoy, both casually on weekends, and as an event car.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608