Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider by Scaglietti
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Car producer : |
Ferrari |
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Model: |
250 GT LWB California Spider by Scaglietti |
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Year: |
1957-1960 |
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Type: |
Roadster |
Designed for export to North America, the 1957 250 GT California Spyder was Scaglietti's interpretation of an open-top 250 GT. California Spider production began in 1958, and several examples had been built by the time it was announced as a separate model at Ferrari’s annual press conference in Modena on December 9, 1958. Many of the early California Spiders carried only subtle changes over their hardtop siblings. The prototype California Spider (chassis 0769 GT) was nearly unchanged from the TdF, with the exception of its convertible top. By mid-1958, the California Spider had adopted an engine with reinforced connecting rods and crankshaft (type 128D) and a new chassis (type 508D), but it still retained the 250’s original wheelbase of 2,600 millimeters. Cosmetic changes were minor, with slightly revised wheel arches, and it could be specified with either open or closed headlights. All told, 14 LWB California Spiders were built during 1958, with the remaining 36 cars being built between 1959 and 1960. Aluminum was used for the hood, doors, and trunk lid, with steel elsewhere for most models. Several aluminium-bodied racing versions were also built. The engine was the same as in the 250 Tour de France racing car with up to 240 PS (177 kW; 237 hp). All used the long 2,600 mm (102.4 in) chassis, and Pirelli Cinturato 185VR16 tyres (CA67) were standard.
A total of fifty LWBs were made before the SWB version superseded them in 1960.
