Description
The Ferrari 250 GT Spyder 17 CV was a unique and little‑known variant of Ferrari’s celebrated 250 series, notable for its specific taxation classification in France. The “17 CV” designation did not refer to actual brake horsepower but rather to the French fiscal horsepower rating (chevaux fiscaux), a system used to determine vehicle taxation. This classification was based on engine displacement and other mechanical factors rather than true performance output, and it meant the car was tailored to meet the requirements of the French market.
Mechanically, the 250 GT Spyder 17 CV shared its core DNA with other Ferrari 250 GT models of the late 1950s. It was powered by the familiar 3.0‑litre Colombo V12 engine, detuned slightly from its full competition specification to suit road use while still delivering strong performance. Output would typically be in the range of 220 to 240 horsepower, providing a top speed of around 140 mph and brisk acceleration for a luxury sports convertible of the era. The chassis was Ferrari’s proven tubular steel ladder frame, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle, giving a balance of comfort and sporting agility.
The bodywork was designed and built by Pininfarina, whose styling gave the car a low, flowing profile with clean proportions. The Spyder featured a long bonnet, gently curved flanks, and a well‑integrated folding soft top. The design was refined and understated compared to some of Ferrari’s more aggressive racing Spyders, making it a comfortable grand tourer for extended drives. Inside, the car offered leather‑trimmed seats, a wood‑rimmed steering wheel, and a dashboard fitted with clear Veglia instruments.
The “17 CV” specification was not about performance limitation so much as aligning the car with local taxation rules, ensuring that it could be sold and registered in France without excessive fiscal penalties. It was built in very small numbers—likely only a handful—making it an extremely rare variant within the broader 250 GT family.
Today, the Ferrari 250 GT Spyder 17 CV is prized by collectors for its rarity, its connection to Ferrari’s early export strategy, and its combination of open‑top motoring with the smooth power delivery of the Colombo V12. While it may not have the high‑profile racing history of the California Spyder or the 250 GT SWB, it represents a fascinating chapter in Ferrari’s history of tailoring its cars to meet the needs of specific markets.