1961 Ferrari 250 GTE Series I

The 250 GTE presented here, chassis 2919 GT, was completed at the Ferrari factory in November 1961 and originally painted white with black leather upholstery and contrasting red carpets. The 246th example built, 2919 GT is a late Series I GTE distinguished by its grille-mounted driving lights, three-light taillamps, and revised Series II-style dashboard treatment.

The first owner, Mr. Alexander, took delivery of the new Ferrari in Italy and then air freighted the car to his home in San Francisco. Serviced and maintained by local dealer Charles Rezzaghi Motors, 2919 GT remained with Mr. Alexander until spring 1966, when it was sold to Betty Wyars of Wasco, Oregon. Mrs. Wyars kept the GTE for more than a decade and then advertised it for sale in the Oregonian, asking $10,000 for a car she described as being “in mint condition, all original, 50,000 miles.”

In August 1977, David Martin of Beaverton, Oregon, acquired 2919 GT and it remained in his family’s ownership for over three decades. The white 250 GTE was a frequent sight at local Ferrari events and classic car shows until the early 1990s, when it was retired from regular use and stored in the family garage. Likely one of the few remaining GTEs in exceptional, unrestored condition, 2919 GT possesses a charming patina throughout. The checked paintwork appears to be largely original, with an area of visible blending on the right rear fender. The interior is particularly well preserved, with nearly all of the original upholstery, carpets, and headliner intact. Wonderful period details abound, from the Blaupunkt radio in the console to the 1966-issue Oregon license plates.

The engine bay has been visually maintained since a mechanical restoration was performed in the late 1970s, and it appears that many important original features are present throughout the compartment. Though the Ferrari has recently been brought to running order, a careful recommissioning is recommended before use.

The sale of this time-capsule Ferrari is accompanied by an impressive file of supporting documentation that includes receipts, correspondence, photos, and registration records, some dating as far back as Betty Wyars’ ownership. A history report compiled by Marcel Massini, an owner’s manual, and a tool roll are also included with the GTE.

A classic 250 Ferrari with a delightful history and an irreplaceable character, 2919 GT is among the most appealing GTEs to be found.