Ferrari 250 GT Pininfarina

The Ferrari 250 GT 0415GT, bodied by Pininfarina, is a significant example of Ferrari’s illustrious history, tied closely to the legacy of Alfonso Cabeza de Vaca y Leighton, the 11th Marquess of Portago. Born into privilege, Alfonso was named after King Alfonso XIII of Spain, his godfather. His adventurous spirit led him to motor sports, and he became a notable figure in racing, though his career was tragically short-lived, ending at the 1957 Mille Miglia. The 0415 GT is one of the first 10 examples of Ferrari’s 250 GT Berlinetta, built on the Type 508 chassis and featuring a V-12 engine similar to that used in the 250 MM. The car was constructed from lightweight aluminum by Carrozzeria Pinin Farina, designed purely for competition, and lacked the decorative trim seen on other models. Its purposeful design included features like a pinned bonnet with air intakes and competition quick-release latches. Delivered to Alfonso de Portago in November 1955, 0415 GT made its debut at the 2nd Annual Bahamas Speed Week, where it showed promising performance. After Portago, the car passed through several hands, including racer Chuck Hassan and later Dick Beach, who replaced its missing engine with an American V8 after it was stolen. The car eventually returned to its original glory when David Cohen restored it, fitting a correct type 112 engine. It continued to change owners and participate in historic events, such as the Mille Miglia retrospective and the Tour Auto. Notably, during Dieter Roschmann’s ownership, the Ferrari underwent another restoration, which included refinishing in white and re-trimming the seats in charcoal leather, earning it a certificate of authenticity from the Ferrari Classiche Department. The discovery of the original matching-numbers engine block further enhanced its authenticity. Under its current US-based owner, the 0415 GT received a refinish to its original Bianco Avus color, and today it stands as a highly authentic and documented example of Ferrari’s early production 250 GT Berlinetta, making it a coveted piece for collectors and an ideal candidate for various automotive events.