This magnificent red Ferrari 250 GTO in tricolor livery number 19 represents one of the most iconic cars in automotive history. This faithful 1/43 scale reproduction captures the very essence of the legendary Ferrari that participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1962, driven by Jean Guichet and Pierre Noblet.
A true gem for passionate collectors, this miniature bears witness to the golden age of endurance racing, when the 250 GTO dominated circuits worldwide with unmatched elegance and power.
Miniature Specifications
- Model: Ferrari 250 GTO
- Brand: Ferrari
- Year: 1962
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Red with blue, white and red stripes
- Racing number: 19
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the Real Model
The Ferrari 250 GTO was born in 1962 from Enzo Ferrari's desire to create a car capable of dominating the GT championship. Developed under the supervision of Sergio Scaglietti and Giotto Bizzarrini, it adopted the tubular chassis of the 250 GT SWB while featuring a revolutionary bodywork designed by Pininfarina. Its aerodynamic design, with that characteristic fastback line and integrated front spoiler, met the requirements of new sporting regulations.
Powered by the 3.0-liter V12 Tipo 168/62 developing 300 horsepower, the 250 GTO could reach 280 km/h. Its 5-speed gearbox, four-wheel disc brakes, and independent front suspension made it a formidable weapon on circuits. The number 19 model from the 24 Hours of Le Mans proudly wore the French colors, testifying to the Scuderia's international commitment.
Its commercial and sporting impact was immediate: GT world champion in 1962, 1963 and 1964, it also won numerous endurance victories, establishing itself as one of the most successful Ferraris in history.
Ferrari in the 1960s
In the early 1960s, Ferrari experienced a golden period under Enzo Ferrari's direction. The prancing horse brand dominated both Formula 1 and endurance racing, with legendary drivers like Phil Hill, Wolfgang von Trips and John Surtees. It was in this context of excellence that the 250 GTO was born, representing the culmination of Maranello's technical expertise.
Ferrari's history begins in 1947 when Enzo Ferrari founded his own team after leaving Alfa Romeo. A former driver turned sporting director, he nurtured the ambition to create the world's most beautiful racing cars. From 1949, Ferrari won its first victories at Le Mans, establishing a tradition of endurance excellence that continues today.
The 1950s and 1960s marked the brand's golden age, with iconic models like the 250 Testa Rossa, 250 GT and of course the 250 GTO. Ferrari then developed its unique philosophy: each car must be both a work of art and a war machine, capable of seducing on the road and dominating on the circuit.
The Story of 250 GTO Number 19
The history of this Ferrari 250 GTO number 19 in tricolor livery hides a fascinating anecdote from the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. Jean Guichet, then a young 26-year-old French driver, and Pierre Noblet, a wealthy amateur driver, formed an atypical crew. Noblet, owner of several car dealerships, had acquired this GTO directly from Ferrari to compete in the endurance season.
During the race, around 2 AM, a major technical incident nearly compromised their participation. The car's lighting system partially failed, leaving only one headlight working. Rather than retire, Guichet developed a revolutionary night driving technique: he followed the taillights of opposing cars to anticipate corners, turning this handicap into a racing strategy.
This bold technique allowed the crew to maintain a sustained pace despite difficult conditions. The 250 GTO number 19 eventually finished in an honorable sixth place overall, but most importantly first in its GT category. This remarkable performance in adversity became legendary among endurance enthusiasts.
The episode perfectly illustrates the spirit of Le Mans in the 1960s: an era when drivers' ingenuity and courage often compensated for technical failures. This Ferrari in French colors symbolizes this heroic period of motorsport, when each race was as much a human adventure as a mechanical challenge.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This Ferrari 250 GTO holds a place of honor in the world of automotive miniatures. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to Ferrari cars or endurance legends. Its tricolor livery also makes it a sought-after model by French collectors wishing to celebrate national automotive heritage.
To enrich your collection, this GTO harmoniously pairs with other racing cars from the same era, notably the Porsche 904 or Ford GT40 that also dominated circuits in the 1960s. Enthusiasts of 1960s miniatures will find an ideal complement to their Jaguar E-Type or Aston Martin DB5.
This miniature appeals to both experienced collectors and newcomers eager to discover the Ferrari universe. Its 1/43 scale, perfect for display, and protective case make it a durable investment for any automotive enthusiast seeking to own a piece of motorsport history.
