If you were a billionaire car enthusiast, you could fill your garage with the most desirable automobiles ever created. Fancy classics, each worth Millions of Dollars. For your collection to be complete, you would want a Duesenberg SSJ Roadster, a Bugatti Type 57, a Jaguar XK-SS, and, certainly, a vintage Ferrari.
Click on the above image for another XXL-sized image (850 x 606 pixels)
Of all the Ferraris ever made, the 250GT California Spyder holds a special place. Just a handful of these Scaglietti-bodied supercars--each one slightly differing from another--were manufactured during the late 1950s and early 1960s. VIPs of the era, international playboys, and assorted potentates were knocking on Enzo's door clamoring for one of the coveted convertibles. Many years ago, these original California Spyders ascended to the rarefied realm of Million-Dollar Ferrari collectibles, securely tucked away inside gated compounds of the fabulously wealthy.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (850 x 592 pixels)
Back in the Sixties, the breathtakingly sexy lines of the 250GT California caused sleepless nights for scores of Ferraristi. One young California designer, Mark Goyette, went on to turn the impossible dream into reality, merging the best elements of the model into the fantastic creation seen here. Sold initially as the MODENA, the car was steadily improved over the past 20 years. A high point in its career was a pivotal role in the cult classic "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." The red Spyder, Matthew Broderick's object of desire, is the real star of this 1986 movie. Just like James Bond's Aston Martin DB4, Ferris' California Spyder was immortalized on the big screen.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (900 x 561 pixels)
This particular California icon began its life in the climate-controlled 10,000 sq.ft. museum-cum-workshop of a very wealthy businessman, who also happened to be a lifelong SCCA racer and Ferrari fanatic. Painstakingly assembled from a Precision Design deluxe kit--not currently available anymore, by the way--and infused with countless, original Italian bits to re-create the Ferrari's correct, early Sixties flair, the car surely must be the most authentic-looking, stunningly finished Spyder in existence. Though technically a "used automobile," it's virtually showroom new, with only 00049 test miles on the odometer!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (900 x 561 pixels)
Showing off its gorgeous, arrow-straight body at the Santa Barbara harbor on September 20, the metallic Azzurro Blue finish seems to be a mile deep. Be assured, the car has never been out in the rain. The Spyder's paint is all original and there is no hint of any damage, ever. The chrome and polished aluminum brightwork shines like new, too.
Please, accompany us while we describe the inner workings of this mind-bending sports car.
|
|
|
Click on any of the above images for a full-size view
To start with, any self-respecting Italian steed needs a set of authentic RUOTE BORRANI center-lock wire wheels. Since these amazing works of art with their polished alloy rims and stainless steel spokes cost about $1,200.00 each, most builders make do with the cheaper, domestic DAYTONs. Not so here! Even the three-pronged knock-offs are correct BORRANI items. Tires are brand-new, high performance MICHELINs.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Click on any of the above images for a full-size view
Another highlight of the Spyder is its incredibly well-finished and powder-coated backbone-type tubular chassis. Up front are 11-inch, vented disc brakes, custom dual wishbones with coil-over shocks, as well as Mustang II spindles and steering rack. The rear end is an 8-inch FORD, located by four trailing arms and a Panhard rod, featuring adjustable coil-overs as well. All the fasteners are either stainless steel or cadmium plated.
Well, it's time to take a quick peek below the bonnet!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 570 pixels)
The California Spyder is motivated by a brand new FORD MOTORSPORT crate engine, mated to an equally new, FORD TREMEC 5-speed manual transmission. Producing an estimated 350 cavallinos from 351 cubic inches, this power plant features aluminum heads, performance cam, tuned exhaust headers, MSD ignition, and an EDELBROCK intake manifold with HOLLEY double pumper carburetor, inhaling through a custom-built fresh air scoop. It's decked out with alloy valve covers and various chrome and billet accessories.
Let's look inside now!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 600 pixels)
No, this is not a photo from a factory brochure, circa 1962: it's the California Spyder's world-class cockpit--in the year 2005! The dash received special attention: its correct black wrinkle-finish has been faithfully replicated. Chrome-rimmed gauges display two-tone gray faces, white pointers and numerals, and appear as authentic as the wood-and-aluminum NARDI volant.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 600 pixels)
Seats, center console, door and side panels have been richly clothed in glove soft, aromatic, biscuit CONNOLLY leather, just like you would expect from an expensive Italian antique. Leather-bound WILTON carpeting adds to the luxurious feel. Black lap belts feature chrome buckles.
|
|
|
Click on any of the above images for a full-size view
Interior details, from left to right:
- Authentic Ferrari rear view mirror ($700.00).
- Authentic Ferrari ash receiver.
- CONNOLLY leather and chrome fittings throughout.
|
|
|
|
|
Click on any of the above images for a full-size view
No expense was spared!
Exterior details, clockwise, from top left:
- Covered headlights. Note the hand-made alloy trim.
- Former owner liberally added "Ferrari" scripts and emblems. Cool!
- Hand-crafted, alloy mesh side vents.
- Trunk emblem and chrome lock.
- Flip-top racing style fuel filler. Muy macho!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (850 x 601 pixels)
Ready for the test drive?
So are we, but there's one more area to inspect: the trunk!
(In the picture above, note the correctly routed, chromed exhaust pipes and the ultra-rare, authentic CARELLO reflectors.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 598 pixels)
Sizeable luggage compartment features a mat made from fine WILTON carpeting. A custom-fitted car cover (not shown in this photo) is included.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 585 pixels)
Having finished the physical inspection, let's get on with the visceral part of the day!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 600 pixels)
No, an Italian Diva she's not. The California Spyder starts up and runs completely untemperamental, with a Detroit attitude, of course. All lights and gauges work perfectly. The car features power brakes and power steering to ease the driver's work load. Turn a knob below the dash, and you'll instantly get ice cold air conditioning or hot, hot heat as needed.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 576 pixels)
Best of all, the Spyder's light weight, combined with the torque monster below the hood, result in a uniquely exhilarating driving experience. After learning to harness the car's immense power, you'll be happily lighting the tires at will, in any gear. Thanks to its specially tuned exhaust, the Commendatore's favorite music is trumpeting forth from its quadruple pipes.
It's an unequalled adventure!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (900 x 587 pixels)
Unlike many post-war open sports cars (Maserati Birdcage, Allard, and Kurtis 500S come to mind), the California Spyder offers full weather protection, with roll-up side windows and a disappearing, tan canvas convertible top that can be raised or lowered within seconds. A tan tonneau cover is included as well.
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (800 x 571 pixels)
Returning home, we are mightily impressed by the Spyder's perfect combination of ferocious power and civilized road manners. On the highway, the car garners more respect and adulation than any vehicle we've ever owned. In a nutshell, it has the Million Dollar look and performance to match. If you've been contemplating the purchase of a Porsche Speedster or AC Cobra, you might want to reconsider: they're all too common nowadays, while the Spyder California is in a class all by its own!
Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (850 x 597 pixels)
A coveted supercar that can be driven daily without worries, over $85,000.00 was invested by its former owner to get all the details right, big and small, from the Italian turn signal lenses up front to the 250 man-hours spent on massaging the chassis for show. You couldn't duplicate the car's many unique traits and features for less if you tried, but here's your chance to snap up this amazing, hand-built California Spyder for less, much less. Remember, they are not being made anymore!
Ciao, bella!