Ferrari - 250 (1961)

Ferrari 250 1961 – A Benchmark of Italian Performance

When you hear the name Ferrari 250, you almost automatically think of an icon of automotive history, a car that combined Italian engineering excellence with an inescapable allure. The 1961 model in particular is celebrated for its refined balance of power and handling. For collectors and enthusiasts, understanding Ferrari 250 price ranges is essential, whether you’re evaluating a pristine show down or a robustly used example. This page offers a comprehensive snapshot of the 1961 Ferrari 250’s key specs, depreciation trends, and its standing in today’s classic‑car market.

• Engine: 2.9‑litre (2,955 cc) four‑cylindric V12 – 250 hp at 7,200 rpm, 291 lb‑ft 600 rpm
• Transmission: 5‑speed manual, connected to a rear‑wheel drive layout
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline – the engine’s high‑octane requirements maintain peak performance
• Dimensions (mm): Length = 4,185 mm, Width = 1,760 mm, Height = 1,190 mm, Wheelbase = 2,585 mm
• Weight (kg): 1,100 kg – a balance of lightness and stability
• Top Speed: ~250 kph (155 mph)
• Braking: Ventilated disc brakes powered by a balance‑bias system
• Interior: Leather‑trimmed wheelbase cabin, analog dashboard with tachometer, manual gear selector
• Exterior: Classic Alfa‑Rio front fascia, canted fenders, stainless‑steel exhaust fins

Ferrari 250 depreciation trends are rooted in classic‑car economics, where rarity, condition, and provenance govern value. While every vehicle’s life curve is unique, a 1961 Ferrari 250 typically experiences the following depreciation rates:

• First year: **15 %–25 %** loss of market value – the “first‑year blow” as the car transitions from a new build to a used asset.
• Second‑third years: **8 %–12 %** in subsequent annual intervals – depreciation slows as the vehicle becomes a mature head‑liner.
• Long‑term (beyond 10 years): **Stabilization** between **2 %–5 % per year**, especially for chassis that have maintained high mileage architecture and originality.

By contrast, a 1961 Ferrari 250 that has been meticulously cared for with original parts and preserved climate conditions can actually see a modest value increase after the first decade, thanks to historic appreciation cycles. Buyers who look beyond price and focus on restoration history will often uncover a hidden gem – a balance of mileage, tooling, and historic significance.

Popular in Classic and Collector Segments

The Ferrari 250 platform, from 1964 “Garavini” to the 1961 GT, holds a revered position in Europe’s classic car segment and the high‑end luxury registry in North America. Its specifications, combined with either pre‑show‑room brilliant condition or curated mechanical upgrades, keep it in frequent circulation at auction houses and private sales. The Ferrari 250’s versatility – with variants ranging from race‑focussed to road‑ready – amplifies its appeal across both aesthetic purists and performance aficionados.

Comparison Context

When assessing Ferrari 250 1961