1963 Ferrari 250 LM
The Ferrari 250 LM is a legendary sports car that was produced by Ferrari in the mid-1960s. It was developed as a competition-oriented model and holds a special place in Ferrari’s racing history. Here’s a brief history of the Ferrari 250 LM:
Development and Introduction:
The development of the Ferrari 250 LM began in the early 1960s. It was designed to comply with the FIA’s Group 3 sports car racing regulations, which required a limited production run of road-going versions. The “LM” in its name stood for Le Mans, as Ferrari aimed to compete and conquer the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
Design and Engineering:
The Ferrari 250 LM featured a mid-engine layout, with the engine positioned behind the driver. It was powered by a 3.3-liter V12 engine that produced around 320 horsepower. The car’s lightweight construction, aerodynamic bodywork, and advanced engineering contributed to its exceptional performance on the track.
Racing Success:
The Ferrari 250 LM enjoyed notable success in various racing events. In 1965, it made its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and achieved a historic victory, securing first place overall. This victory marked the first and only time a mid-engine car won the prestigious endurance race. The 250 LM also competed in other endurance races, including the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Tour de France Automobile, showcasing its competitiveness and reliability.
Limited Production:
Due to the FIA regulations, Ferrari had to produce a minimum of 100 road-going versions of the 250 LM. However, the production numbers fell short, with only 32 units produced, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Ferraris ever created. The limited production, combined with its racing success, has contributed to the car’s desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
Legacy and Collectability:
The Ferrari 250 LM is highly regarded as one of the most significant and valuable Ferraris of all time. Its racing pedigree, iconic design, and rarity have made it a sought-after collector’s car, with examples commanding astronomical prices at auctions. The 250 LM’s victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans solidified its place in motorsport history and added to its enduring legacy.
The Ferrari 250 LM stands as a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to motorsport excellence during the 1960s. With its groundbreaking mid-engine configuration, remarkable racing achievements, and limited production, it remains an iconic and highly respected model in Ferrari’s illustrious lineage.
Ferrari 250 LM Technical Specifications
Year of Manufacture – 1963
ENGINE | ||
type | rear, longitudinal 60° V12 | |
bore/stroke | 77 x 58.8 mm | |
unitary displacement | 273.81 cc | |
total displacement | 3285.72 cc | |
compression ratio | 9.7 : 1 | |
maximum power | 235 kW (320 hp) at 7500 rpm | |
power per litre | 97 hp/l | |
maximum torque | – | |
valve actuation | single overhead camshafts per bank, two valves per cylinder | |
fuel feed | six Weber 38/40 DCN carburettors | |
ignition | single spark plug per cylinder, two coils | |
lubrication | dry sump | |
clutch | single-plate | |
CHASSIS | ||
frame | tubular steel | |
front suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
rear suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
brakes | discs | |
transmission | 5-speed + reverse | |
steering | rack-and-pinion | |
fuel tank | capacity 130 litres | |
front tyres | 5.50 x 15 | |
rear tyres | 7.00 x 15 | |
BODYWORK | ||
type | two-seater berlinetta | |
length | 4090 mm | |
width | 1700 mm | |
height | 1115 mm | |
wheelbase | 2400 mm | |
front track | 1350 mm | |
rear track | 1340 mm | |
weight | 820 kg (dry) | |
PERFORMANCE | ||
top speed | 287 km/h | |
acceleration 0-100 km/h | – | |
0-400 m | – | |
0-1000 m | – |