Words: Gentleman's Journal
Have you ever fancied yourself as an old school racing driver? The kind of rakish racer who dressed immaculately, dated models, and could make any automotive endeavour look like child’s play?
We know we have. And, if you’ve got pockets deep enough, this incredibly rare 1953 Ferrari 625 Targa Florio Vignale is just the prop to get you into character. Stunning in looks and brimming with spirit, this Ferrari has been owned and driven by some of the greatest drivers in history, including Mike Hawthorn — Le Mans 24 hour champion and the first ever British F1 champion — and is going up for sale at Bonhams on 11th May.
Enter your bid and you’ll add to the car’s illustrious history – as it has been driven in some of the most gruelling races possible in the past 50 years, including Grands Prix, the Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti and even further afield in long distance races in Argentina.
With such racing pedigree it is easy to see why this car has been so hotly sought after. Not to mention the distinctive lines of the bodywork, which show the brilliant combination of Ferrari and Vignale’s visionary work.
Only three of these models were ever made with 2.5 litres, 4 cylinder twin-overhead camshaft engines, which were commissioned specially for the race track.
It was recently restored and raced in the 2006 Monaco Historic Grand Prix, where this car really came into its own.
And, if you are lucky enough to win, just remember: Whilst this car would undoubtedly look stunning sitting outside one of Monte Carlo’s grand hotels, it is meant to be raced.
And the rest of the world knows it. The 625 is eligible for some of the most prestigious vintage race circuits in the world and will hopefully see many more chequered flags in its lifetime.
If you’re looking at obtaining this piece of racing history get yourself to Monaco on May 11 where Bonhams is holding the Les Grands Marques de Monde à Monaco, and this car will go under the hammer alongside an entire fleet of vintage racers.
Make no mistake, the Targa Florio will be the star of this show — so be prepared to fight off the competition, with it estimated to go between $5,500,000 — $8,000,000.
Want more exclusivity? Here’s Morgan’s latest throw of the Aero 8 dice…
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