We often sell cars before they are publicly marketed – and this rare right-hand drive Ferrari 250 GT SWB is one such example.

In the early 1950s, Ferrari introduced their 250 model line as a way of expanding the company’s offerings and taking a step towards increasing production. At that time, Enzo Ferrari had started to understand the importance of promoting his road cars as a way of funding the company’s racing efforts. The introduction of the 250 GT series marked the advent of a new era for Ferrari, one that would produce some of the finest road and competition cars ever made. The 2600 mm chassis of the 250 GT Europa became the basis for bodies and a whole range of 250 GT cars were being developed, including standard coupé road cars, soft-top convertibles along with competition variants with all-aluminium bodies.

The 250 GT SWB prototype was presented at the Paris Salon in October 1959 and its debut was received with great acclaim. The model had been designed on a 2,400 mm chassis and featured a more powerful engine, along with being the first Ferrari Berlinetta to feature disc brakes. Pinin Farina had penned a body which was both dominant yet stylish, with a distinctive sloping back. Talented racing drivers and budding amateurs alike were soon vying to get their hands on one.

Throughout production of the 250 GT SWB, a number of upgrades and changes were brought in. The SWB was initially born without the attractive front and rear side vents but these were introduced from mid-1960. From late 1960 the rear window was slightly enlarged and an air outlet was added into the roof. By 1961, the side marker lights were changed to teardrop shape and the fuel filler was moved to the left wing.

In total, 165 Ferrari 250 GT SWBs were produced but only 14 of these were right-hand drive, including the three alloy-bodied competition variants such as the two famous Rob Walker/Stirling Moss cars. The model today is still one of the most desirable and highly regarded Ferraris ever produced and has gained a reputation for being one of the best all-round track and street sports cars of all time.

Chassis 3657 GT is the last of the 14 right-hand drive 250 GT SWB cars to be produced and it was completed on the 17th September 1962, making it a desirable late production car. It incorporated the continual updates brought in throughout the model production such as the teardrop side indicator lights and relocation of the fuel filler. The car was finished in the very attractive and unique colour combination of Verde Tevere Metallizzato, which was a Maserati colour, over a Verde Scuro leather interior.

Mr Ettinger only owned the car for a short period before selling it to Stuart Wilson, a racer based in Elko, Nevada. A year later, it was purchased by renowned collector, historian and senior Ford designer, Manfred Lampe in Michigan. At this time the car was finished in red and Mr Lampe had the car registered on the very fitting registration plate of ‘SEFAC’.

Chassis 3657 GT is a wonderful example of one of the most desirable models ever produced by Ferrari. It is a very rare right-hand drive car, with only 14 made and this being the very last one of the 14. As can be seen from its history, chassis 3657 GT has been owned by a number of well-known collectors, highlighting the importance and appeal of the car.

We’re pleased to share that the car is off to a fantastic new home, where it will reside amongst a very special collection.