250 GT LWB CALIFORNIA SPYDER

Curator's Notes

The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder LWB is one of the most elegant open-top grand tourers of its era. Conceived for the American market, it was styled by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, combining refined Italian design with Ferrari’s proven racing technology.

Under the hood lies the celebrated 3.0-liter Colombo V12 engine, producing around 240 horsepower. Paired with a lightweight tubular chassis and a 4-speed manual gearbox, the California Spyder offered exhilarating performance, capable of exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph).

The long wheelbase (2,600 mm) provided stability and comfort, while the drum brakes and suspension setup reflected the engineering of the late 1950s. With its flowing lines, covered headlights (on some models), and balanced proportions, the 1959 California Spyder became a symbol of exclusivity and sophistication.

Produced in very limited numbers, this first-generation California Spyder remains one of the most coveted Ferraris among collectors, representing the perfect blend of luxury, performance, and timeless beauty.