The car we’re talking about today is a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider—a true masterpiece.
As a car enthusiast, I can’t help but get excited about the rare and beautiful cars that grace our roads. Today, I want to share with you a true gem of a car that was restored by none other than Bob Norwood himself. If you’re not familiar with Bob, he’s a living legend in the automotive world with over fifty years of experience building, racing, restoring, and servicing vintage and race cars, including Ferraris.
The car we’re talking about today is a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider, and let me tell you, this car is a true masterpiece. Only 50 of these beauties were ever built between 1957 and 1960, and just 9 of them were aluminum alloy-bodied, like this one. And to top it off, this car was originally a coupe that was converted into a convertible, making it even more unique.
Let’s talk about the specs, because they’re truly impressive.
Under the hood, you’ll find Ferrari’s 3 liter 60° Colombo V12 engine with 3 x 36mm Weber carburetors. The engine features single-overhead camshafts and twin distributors, and electronic ignition was added for consistent air/fuel mixtures and spark plug ignition to improve cold starting and smoother engine operation. The electronic ignition is concealed to retain a period-correct look, and an alternator is utilized in place of a factory generator. Four-wheel disc brakes and telescopic rear shocks are installed for improved safety and stability.
The interior of this car is equally impressive. The original restored Ferrari Veglia instrumentation includes a 300-kilometer per hour speedometer and an 8,000 rpm tachometer, as well as refurbished oil pressure, oil temperature, water temperature, fuel level, and amperage with new senders. The leather seats, door panels, transmission tunnel, and console are new, and matching carpets line the footwells. Additional equipment includes a Ferrari polished shift knob, dash-mounted rearview mirror, console ashtray, and wood-rimmed steering wheel with a Ferrari prancing-horse horn button.
Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spiders in concours condition are valued at $22,000,000
Additionally, the California body was handcrafted out of aluminum alloy, and only 37 Ferrari 250 GT California Spiders were produced with covered headlights like this one. Hagerty’s Price Guide indicates Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider values of $22,000,000 for concours condition car! And while this upgraded 1959 Ferrari 250GT LWB California Spider aluminum alloy rebody is a steal at $1,250,000, it also offers marked improvement in performance, drivability, and maintenance than an “as factory delivered” 1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spider—a better overall driving and ownership experience with substantially lower investment risk, at less than 6% of the value!
As a car enthusiast and collector, I know a good investment when I see one. And let me tell you, this car is not only a wise investment, but it’s also a work of art. The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into restoring this car is truly remarkable. And as for my place in its story, well, let’s just say that I’m proud to be a part of the community that recognizes the value and beauty of rare and unique cars like this one.
Bob Norwood's restoration of this particular California Spider is a true work of art.
In conclusion, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider is not only a rare and unique vehicle, but also a testament to the passion and dedication of the automotive enthusiasts who restore and preserve these cars for future generations to enjoy. Bob Norwood’s restoration of this particular California Spider is a true work of art, with attention paid to every detail to create a better driving and ownership experience than even the original factory model. This car is not just a piece of history, it’s a masterpiece that captures the essence of the Ferrari brand and its storied racing heritage. As we continue to celebrate and admire these rare automobiles, we must also remember to honor the people who devote their lives to keeping them alive, and the legacy they leave behind for future generations of car enthusiasts to cherish.
