Ferrari 250 GTO Series 1

Charisma came not only from its innumerable racing victories, but from the unique sum of its parts - stunning looks, a highly competitive chassis and a thoroughbred V12 engine. The 250 GTO model was the pinnacle of development of the 250 GT series in competition form, whilst still remaining a road car. It made its public debut at the annual pre-season Ferrari press conference in January 1962, and was the only front engine model on display, with its monoposto and sports racing counterparts all having a mid-engine configuration. 'Aerodynamics are for people who can't build engines' is an oft repeated quote from Enzo Ferrari and one which he probably regretted when considering cars like the 250 GTO. During its heyday this Gran Turismo (GT) dominated the World Manufacturer's Championship and events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a newly designed body that could go 180 mph. With form following function, this efficient shape was inadvertently one of the most voluptuous to grace a Ferrari chassis. At this level of performance, style and pedigree, it shouldn't be surprising that the 250 GTO is currently one of the most expensive cars in the world. Chassis 3729GT received a high bid of nine million dollars at Bonhams' 1997 Gstaad Auction, but since it failed to meet the reserve, the model has been exclusively sold on the private market. One of the cars finally got auctioned in Bonhams' 2014, for a mere 38,115,000 dollars.