The 1962 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is one of the most celebrated and desirable to come out of Maranello. The model, of which just 56 were built, was developed at the request of Ferrari‘s American distributors, Luigi Chinetti and John von Neumann, who wanted a convertible version of the 250 GT that would appeal to affluent clients on the US West Coast. Some well-heeled celebrities were also fans – actors James Coburn and Alain Delon both owned California Spyders.
We saw this iconic 1962 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder at the 2025 Concours of Elegance held at Hampton Court Palace. This car was one of many that grabbed my attention, you can see much more Concours of Elegance content here, and videos on our YouTube Concours of Elegance playlist.
Design That Defines Elegance
The California Spyder is more than a convertible Ferrari; it is a rolling piece of art. Every curve was shaped with both beauty and performance in mind. Its long bonnet, short tail and perfectly balanced proportions gave it a presence that remains breathtaking today.
Key highlights include:
- Timeless styling by Pininfarina, crafted by Scaglietti
- Open-top appeal tailored for California’s affluent market
- Lightweight construction for agility and speed
Performance with Purpose
Under its elegant skin, the 250 GT California Spyder packed a 3.0-litre Colombo V12 engine. Delivering around 280 horsepower, it offered both refined cruising and thrilling performance. Combined with a lightweight chassis and race-derived engineering, the Spyder had genuine sporting credentials. It wasn’t simply about looking good outside a café on Sunset Boulevard – it could hold its own on winding roads and race circuits.
Rarity Creates Desire
Scarcity fuels value, and with just 56 built, the California Spyder sits high on collectors’ wish lists. Auction prices have reached well over £10 million, making it one of the most valuable Ferraris in existence. Its blend of glamour, performance and rarity has secured its place among the greatest classic cars of all time.
Why It Still Matters Today
The 250 GT California Spyder represents a golden age of Ferrari design. It blends elegance, exclusivity and performance in a way few cars have managed since. It is not just admired by collectors, but also by enthusiasts who see it as a symbol of what makes Ferrari unique – beauty paired with racing DNA.
Conclusion
The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is an enduring symbol of elegance, performance and exclusivity. With its Hollywood connections, stunning design and rarity, it continues to fascinate decades after its debut.
So, what do you think? Does the California Spyder still deserve its crown as Ferrari’s most glamorous creation? Or would you choose a different model from Maranello’s golden era?
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