Rare Ferrari Owned by Steve McQueen Set for Auction at $20 Million
A Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider, once owned by Steve McQueen, will be auctioned by Gooding & Company in New York this November, with an estimated sale price of $15 million to $20 million. This ultra-rare vehicle is notable for its unique history and modifications by the iconic actor.
Overview of the Auction
A rare Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider, previously owned by the legendary actor Steve McQueen, is set to be auctioned at a Gooding & Company event in New York this November. This vehicle, originally priced around $150,000, is now expected to fetch between $15 million and $20 million.
Details of the Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider
The Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider features a 3.3-liter V12 engine, with the name '275' indicating the engine displacement per cylinder. The 'GTB' signifies its coupe body style, while the '/4' refers to its four-cam engine upgrade. The 'S' and 'Spider' denote its open-top configuration, uniquely commissioned by the North American Racing Team (NART) under Luigi Chinetti. Only 10 of these models were made, making it exceptionally rare.
Steve McQueen's Ownership
McQueen acquired this car from Hollywood Sports Cars in 1967, customizing it with a darker metallic blue paint and unique interior stitching. Unfortunately, he was involved in a crash shortly after purchasing it, leading to a lengthy repair process. By 1971, the car was sold to J. David Kopf and later entered the current owner's collection in 1986.
Historical Significance
This NART Spider retains its original engine and body, along with custom details from McQueen’s era. It has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the 1996 Louis Vuitton Classic and the 2003 Chrysler Museum exhibition. David Gooding, president of Gooding & Company, emphasized the car's elusive nature and its significance in McQueen's legacy.
Upcoming Exhibition
Alongside the auction, this Ferrari will participate in the first-ever Rétromobile New York, marking a historic moment as the annual car show expands outside of France for the first time since its inception in 1976.