Did you know the Ferrari 250 GTO is officially considered a work of art?
08/03/2026
Some cars become icons. Others become legends.
The legendary Ferrari 250 GTO received a remarkable designation from an Italian court: it is officially protected as a work of industrial design with artistic value. In other words, according to the law, this Ferrari stands on the same cultural level as a painting or sculpture. The ruling came from the court in Bologna after Ferrari filed a lawsuit against a company that planned to produce modern replicas of the iconic model.
Why this Ferrari is considered art
The court determined that the Ferrari 250 GTO meets two crucial criteria: creativity and artistic value.
The design, developed by Ferrari together with coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful automotive designs ever created. Its elegant proportions, long hood and perfectly balanced lines have made it a timeless design icon.
Its racing history also played a key role in the decision. The Ferrari 250 GTO was not only visually striking but also extremely successful on the track, helping cement its status as one of the most celebrated cars in automotive history.
One of the most valuable cars in the world
The car’s extraordinary market value also helped support the court’s decision. A 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO sold at auction through RM Sotheby's in 2018 for $48.4 million, at the time setting a record for the most expensive classic car ever sold publicly.
Private sales have reportedly exceeded $50 million, placing the 250 GTO among the most valuable automobiles ever built.
Only 36 cars were built
Between 1962 and 1964, Ferrari produced just 36 examples of the 250 GTO. Under its sculpted hood sits a naturally aspirated V12 engine capable of pushing the car to around 270 km/h, remarkable performance for a racing car of that era.
Today, all examples are believed to still exist, although some have been restored or rebuilt after racing incidents over the decades.
AutoNext Take
The idea that a car could officially be recognized as a work of art may sound unusual. But in the case of the Ferrari 250 GTO, it actually feels quite fitting. The model represents a rare combination of design, history, rarity and emotional appeal that few cars can match.
In an era where the automotive conversation is dominated by electric technology, software and digital interfaces, the Ferrari 250 GTO serves as a reminder that a car can also simply be timeless beauty on wheels. And perhaps that’s something true car enthusiasts have always known.
