Chassis #06003, the first and only 275 GTB prototype, was built in 1964 with the original short-nosed bodywork and used by Ferrari to develop the forthcoming production cars. It thus underwent many changes, including being fitted with the updated longnose Scaglietti bodywork. The car was sold in April of 1965, though returned to the factory in November of that year, where it was decided that #06003 would undergo further testing to gain information about the model’s then-new transaxle and independent rear suspension. 

Around 12,000km of testing ensued, during which time the car received various rallying addenda including the spotlights, radiator blind, extra windscreen wiper, and modified bonnet you can see today. This was in preparation for the 1966 Monte-Carlo Rally, in which Giorgio Pianta and navigator Roberto Lippi drove the Ferrari with the unofficial support of the Works. Though the duo retired, Pianta later remarked that the experience was “the most beautiful memory of my life”.

The unique Ferrari prototype is today presented in its Monte-Carlo Rally specification. Having resided in a private collection for the last 25 years, the car has not been shown at any prestigious concours or historic motorsport events. Let’s hope whoever makes the winning bid at Gooding & Co’s Scottsdale 2019 sale on 18–19 January (est. 6–8m US dollars) is up for returning the car to the snowy Alpine passes above Monte-Carlo. One can but dream! 

Photos courtesy of Gooding & Company © 2019