An icon of motorsport is making headlines again in 2025, and it’s no ordinary one: the Ferrari 250 LM, victorious at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans, is set to go under the hammer in an exceptional auction organized by RM Sotheby’s Paris.
With its legendary history, iconic V12 engine, and status in endurance racing lore, this Italian berlinetta is poised to break records!
Read more:
- Is this already the end of electric cars? Porsche is working on a 100% combustion next-generation engine that’s poised to become the ultimate benchmark in the automotive industry
- Two rally engines fused to propel this race car: this Korean manufacturer aims to dominate the 24 Hours of Le Mans and is going all in on this innovation
More images of this Ferrari 250 LM here.
A Ferrari built for race winning
The Ferrari 250 LM chassis 5893 isn’t just a collectible car—it’s a true piece of history. Built in 1964, it is the sixth of only 32 examples produced by Maranello. Initially sold to Irene Young, it was quickly acquired by Luigi Chinetti, Ferrari’s North American importer, who transformed it into a future champion. Under the North American Racing Team (NART) banner, this 250 LM had its bodywork modified to improve aerodynamics. In 1965, it cemented its place in history by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans, becoming the ninth Ferrari to triumph on the legendary circuit. Driven by Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt, it defied all odds, outperforming more modern Ford and Ferrari prototypes. This victory is especially notable as it remains the last private Ferrari to win the race to this day.
The “minor” detail: An impressive racing record
While the Le Mans victory stands as its crowning achievement, the Ferrari 250 LM chassis 5893 also shone on other prestigious circuits. In 1966, it competed in the 24 Hours of Daytona, finishing ninth, and was showcased at the New York Auto Show in 1967. The following year, it returned to racing but faced challenges, with crashes at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Le Mans in 1968 marking the beginning of tougher times. Yet, this Ferrari never gave up. In 1969, though technologically outpaced, it proved its reliability and performance by finishing 8th at Le Mans. Its final race came in 1970 at the 24 Hours of Daytona, where it achieved an impressive 7th place finish. This marked the last time a Ferrari 250 LM participated in a World Championship event.
A collector’s treasure seeking a new garage
After retiring from racing, the 250 LM was acquired by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where it has been preserved for over 50 years. Now, it’s set to leave the collection and find a passionate new owner willing to pay a staggering sum. Estimated at over $26 million, this car could become one of the most expensive Ferraris ever sold. What sets this 250 LM apart isn’t just its exceptional racing record but also its remarkable state of preservation. It still retains its original engine and gearbox—a rare feat in the world of historic race cars. Enthusiasts will also have access to comprehensive documentation tracing the car’s history, from its early days at Luigi Chinetti Motors to its time at the Indianapolis museum.
This article unveils the fascinating story of the Ferrari 250 LM chassis 5893, a car that made motorsport history with its 1965 Le Mans victory. From its promising debut to its enduring career on the circuits and remarkable preservation, this berlinetta embodies the spirit of competition and endurance passion. As the auction approaches, all eyes are on this living legend that could set a new sales record.
Source & images: © RM Sotheby’s
