In this universe of supercars and automobile rarities, the Ferrari 330 LM emerges as an icon of exclusivity and history, ready to redefine the collector car market. This jewel on wheels has all the elements necessary to become the most expensive car ever sold, breaking impressive records.
The Enigma of the Ferrari 330 LM
At first glance, the Ferrari 330 LM could be confused with the legendary Ferrari 250 GTO, but there is a fundamental distinction that makes it a unique treasure. It was built in 1962 by the renowned Scaglietti based on the structure of the 250 GTO, which made it a rarity from the beginning.
Although it shares a virtually identical look with the 250 GTO, the Ferrari 330 LM was designed for competition. The example with chassis number 3765, one of 34 produced, was the only one that competed directly for Scuderia Ferrari. Not only that, but it's the closest relative to the 250 GTO we've ever seen.
At that time, the Ferrari 250 GTO did not comply with FIA competition standards, so Ferrari took a bold step and created the Ferrari 330 LM. This model is slightly larger in all dimensions, allowing the installation of a powerful 4.0-liter V12 engine with 390 hp, compared to the original 3.0-liter V12 with 300 hp. Furthermore, the four-speed gearbox was replaced by a five-speed gearbox with multi-plate clutch.
The result of the modifications was an immediate success. The Ferrari 330 LM shone in competition, winning a victory in its category and second place overall in the 1,000 km of Nürburgring in 1962. In the same year, it participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driven by Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini, although it was forced to abandon due to a mechanical defect.
The Journey of the Ferrari 330 LM to Collector Jim Jaeger
In 1964, the car was sold to a private customer for around $6,000, an amount that seems modest today. Before that, the 4.0-liter V12 engine was replaced by the 3.0-liter V12 from the 250 GTO.
In 1985, the Ferrari 330 LM found a new home in the hands of Ferrari collector Jim Jaeger, who paid $500,000 for the vehicle. Jaeger, who acquired the car from former Ford engineer Fred Leydorf, has carefully documented Ferrari's history. During his period of ownership, Jaeger restored the vehicle, reintroducing the 4.0-liter V12 engine, although it was later replaced again by the 3.0-liter engine.
Engine changes were common in early sports cars, allowing a single chassis to compete in different classes, demonstrating the versatility of the Ferrari 330 LM.
The Uncertain Future at Auction
Currently, everything points to initial bids for the very rare example of the Ferrari 330 LM starting at 60 million dollars. However, due to its unique history and its role in motor racing, it is believed that the final value could exceed $70 million, surpassing the record set by another Ferrari, the 250 GTO, which was sold in a private negotiation in 2018.
The future owner who manages to win this vehicle at auction will not only be taking home a masterpiece on wheels, but also a fully functional sports car. Jim Jaeger claims that the Ferrari 330 LM, equipped with the engine from the 250 GTO, still runs spectacularly.
To paraphrase Jaeger himself: “The best word to describe this car is 'visceral'. It's a completely different experience to anything I've ever driven. Even with its 300 horsepower, it’s not as fast as the new Corvette Z06, but it’s an experience that stimulates the senses in a unique way.”
With all these elements, the Ferrari 330 LM promises to set a new standard for automotive extravagance, captivating collectors and classic car enthusiasts around the world. His legacy is a testament to his passion for automobile engineering and the pursuit of perfection on the race track. It will be interesting to see who will bid the highest for this unique piece of automotive history.
Want to know more or talk to us about the topic? follow our page on Facebook! A place for discussion, information and exchange of experiences. You can also follow us on Instagram.
English 
Portuguese 
Spanish 
Japanese 
German 
Hindi