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Specialty Car Insurance: Updated Classics, More than a Trend

Specialty Car Insurance Updated Classics, More than a Trend

In a recent post we discussed the emergence of the Revology Mustang as one of the most headline grabbing and eye catching auto revival initiatives of 2015. What we haven’t mentioned yet is that Revology is not alone in their efforts to bring classic auto into the 21st century with updated technology, performance, and luxury amenities. Revology is just one of a handful of specialty auto crafters popping up across the country that specialize in revamping classic rides. In the last few years a small but growing group of automakers around the world have been taking some of the most iconic cars ever built and updating them into thoroughly modern machines. In return, these revival vehicles have been met with both incredible praise, and harsh criticism from classic car enthusiasts.

There is no doubt that classic cars have an undeniable appeal, but as any auto enthusiast will confess vintage vehicles are not without their faults and flaws. While we might look back on classic rides through the proverbial rose colored glasses, many classic, antique and vintage vehicles leave much to be desired in terms of reliability, dependability and safety. Even in the best of shape and with impeccable upkeep vintage vehicles can be a handful and don’t often make the best daily drives. Which leaves many enthusiasts and collectors facing the conundrum of balancing their love for vintage aesthetics and tradition with their yearning for luxury, performance and convenience.

That’s where these replica and revival vehicles come into play. For years enthusiast have been updating their classics to enhance the driving experience. In fact, that’s what originally lead to many auto trends, such as hot-rodding. Proponents and producers of these modernized classics have been quick to point out just that. Supporters of these re-imagined classics assert that these vehicle, claim that they represent the prefect blend of automotive history, tradition and progress. These vehicles producers are coupling vintage styling and aesthetics appeal with the modern luxury amenities most consumers need in a daily driver to create a unique class of specialty vehicles to meet some enthusiasts’ demands. Many of these new autos offer top of the line vehicle technology in both safety and performance.

Whether you are a vintage auto purist or a specialty vehicle enthusiast, it is important to protect your ride. At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting specialty, exotic, and classic cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete specialty auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about our specialty car insurance, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Auto Shop Fire Causes Major Vintage Auto Losses

Auto Shop Fire Causes Major Vintage Auto Losses

 

Classic, vintage and specialty vehicles can be worth a great deal both financially and emotionally. Many owners invest their time, energy and hard earned money into perfecting and restoring their vintage rides. But accidents happen, and you can’t always prepare for them.That’s why having complete vintage car insurance is so important.

Imagine taking your prized vintage car into the shop to have some clean up and restoration done only to get a call from the shop owner saying that there has been an accident. That’s exactly what happened to auto owners in San Jose, California after a five alarm fire broke out in a building which housed a restoration auto shop that specialized in upholstery and a audit system instillation shop. While the fire was believed to have been an accident, the devastation was vast. According to local police officials the contents of the building were a “complete loss” including one collector’s ten vintage vehicles being garaged in the shop.

Finding the right coverage at an affordable rate can be challenging. Collectable vehicles have very different insurance needs than the average new vehicle and driver. One such need is the option for a policy structured upon an Agreed Value. Agreed Value auto insurance ensures that vintage auto owners will receive a vehicle’s full value in the event of a total loss, instead of a depreciated vehicle value which is common in most standard auto insurance policies. This helps collectors recover their full investment in the event of vintage auto losses.

At Condon Skelly we write policies specifically designed for the classic, vintage and specialty vehicles. We strive to keep your insurance costs low so that you can spend more time on the road. Our policies cost about 60% less than standard auto insurance companies, and they’re designed specifically for unique needs of classic and collector cars. While many classic car insurance policies restrict usage to 6 months, we make sure you get the most enjoyment out of your vehicle by removing mileage caps and To learn more about us and our specialty vehicle insurance programs, contact us today at (855) 735-2844.

Collector Auto Insurance: More Quirky Cars Collectors Love

Collector Auto Insurance More Quirky Cars Collectors Love

Collector Auto Insurance: More Quirky Cars Collectors Love

Auto collecting isn’t always about getting the best, the fastest, or even the most stylish vehicles ever made. Collectors choose their vehicles for countless reasons, sometimes for emotional investment other times for the potential to turn a profit. Jay Leno himself consistently advises collectors to think beyond the money and collect vehicles you love, whether they are ordinary, plain, simple or quirky or even down right flops.

Here are a few more understated collectable vehicles that you might never have thought to want:

  • Little Known American Brands: When you think American autos you undoubtedly think Chrystler, Chevy, Ford, GM and others which have survived the sands of time to become the cornerstones of the American auto market they are today. However, over the years there have been dozens of American automakers that have come and gone, leaving only traces of their brief existence behind. Crosley Motor Corporation, for example emerged out of Richmond, Indiana in 1939 producing compact convertibles, a pickup, a station wagon and a few other models which were popular choices during WWII when fuel rations were limited. Crosley vehicles were known for getting up to 50 miles to the gallon making them some of the most economical models of the era. Yet there production was brief and sporadic and by 1952 Crosley ceased vehicle production, making these vehicles a rare and fascinating historical find for some collectors.
  • Distinct Shapes or “Out-of-Place” Styling: When it comes to choosing quirky collectables, sometimes the simple novelty of finding a vehicles that just didn’t fit in at the time can be a fun choice. For example, the Pontiac Aztec was one of GM’s most recent flops due in large part to its unusual and awkward styling. At the time the vehicle was released it wasn’t a huge success with consumers who complained about everything from the Aztec’s shape and size to the lights and vents placement, despite the vehicles overall competency as a SUV crossover vehicle which were gaining in popularity. There are countless other examples of models that just hit the market at the wrong time or missed the mark on prominent styling trends which is want make them stand out to many collectors as memorable and worthy.
  • Military Inspired Rides: Military inspired vehicles have always been a niche market among collectors and some are harder to come by than others. The Hummer H1 for example, which was the precursor to the thinner and more streamlined H2 and H3 models of the present, was and still is a novelty. In 1999 the the H1 emerged as a joint venture between General Motors and AM General which was built on a heavily modified GMC 2500HD chassis. The rough- and-tough looking military inspired vehicle appeals to collectors who enjoy the look and performance capabilities of the heavy duty outdoor vehicle. For collectors, the most desirable model is the H1 Alpha which was discontinued in 2006.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle custom and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector auto insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Car Insurance: Spotting a Modern Classic

Collector Car Insurance Spotting a Modern Classic

Collector Car Insurance: Spotting a Modern Classic

One of the best things about auto collection is that the market is always expanding. Today’s “new car” can be tomorrows highly prized collectors piece. But not every car driven off the lot will become a collectable, in fact most will not. There is an art to predicting which vehicles will appreciate in value and those that will depreciate into simple used vehicle status. The trick is to invest wisely in the moment.

In a recent article, Popular Mechanics investigated the auto industry over the last few decades in search of the “new classics” or vehicles which are fetching increased prices on the collectors market. Here are a few of their findings:

Porsche Carrera GT (2004-2006)

Why: Rarity. While Porsche’s are known for holding their value well, only a few modern models are being sought after in collector circles. The Carrera GT is one such model. The V10 powered sports car boasts 605 hp which allowed Jay Leno to set three standing-start speed records in the model. Only 604 GT’s produced were available to the U.S. and a grand total of 1270 were ever made. While not yet a classic or officially a collector’s piece, the Carrera GT has held its value and is predicted to increase over time due to rarity and performance capabilities.

VW Vanagon Camper Syncro (1986–1991)

Why: Niche Market. While VW does not have a strong presence in the collector car market, their van models have become routinely sought after in certain niche markets. The Type 2 Microbus for example, the groovy one from the 60s, has fetched six digit prices at auctions. According to Popular Mechanics, the Type 3 released during the 1980’s through 1991 has increased in value as well. Much of the draw to these models are the built in camper functionality and easily modified to increase power and performance.

Ferrari F40 (1987–1992)

Why: Record Breaker. Ferraris notoriously hold and improve their value when properly maintained, but the F40 has doubled in value in the last 20 years. Weighing less the 2500 pounds and sporting 471 horsepower, the F40 was the first street legal production vehicle to ever break 200 mph. Its styling, performance and reputation have made the F40 a sought after prize and investment.

To read the full Popular Mechanics article, visit their website.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector car insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Car Insurance: History of Lotus Part 2

Collector Car Insurance The history of Lotus (2)

Collector Car Insurance: History of Lotus Part 2

In the first of our posts recounting the history of Lotus we discussed the auto brand’s founding and early victories in both the consumer market and racing circuits. However, the brand struggled to retain financial security, and over the years founder Colin Chapman have to come up with some creative solutions to keep his operations running.

Despite their early success throughout the 1960s and 1970s, by the 1980s the Lotus Group faced serious financial complications as production and sales dipped to less than 400 vehicles a year. In 1982 Chapman who was still running the Lotus Group came to a collaborative agreement with Toyota. Lotus Engineering helped Toyota develop the Toyota Celica XX, which gave Lotus the funding to launch the Excel. The Excel was built using Toyota components which allowed the vehicle to be produced and sold for much less than their previous models. During this time Chapman launched a new American branch, Lotus Performance Cars Inc., which was incredibly well received in the American market. Revenue from Lotus Performance Cars Inc. was able to provide fresh capital to the Lotus Group back in the United Kingdom.

Rocked by scandal involving a botched deal with the DeLorean Motor Company and the death of Chapman in late 1982, the Lotus Group was once again near bankruptcy by 1983. After the demise of Chapman, the brand would change hands and focus a number of times. The Group was purchased by new investors and an entrepreneur named David Wickins who would later facilitate the sale of Lotus to US based General Motors. In 19930 Gm decided to sell off their shares in the Lotus Group to to A.C.B.N. Holdings, who also owned Bugatti Automobili SpA. Three years later A.C.B.N. Holdings sold their share in Lotus to the Malaysian automaker Pronto.

In 2009 Dany Bahar of Farrari took over as CEO of what is now known as The Lotus Group International Limited which had been established in 2006. Bahar was let go in 2012 and a new CEO was appointed to guide the brand forward.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector car insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Car Insurance: The History of Lotus Part 1

Collector Car Insurance The History of Lotus (1)

Collector Car Insurance: The History of Lotus Part 1

Mention the brand Lotus around any sports car and racing enthusiasts and you will undoubtedly be met by a chorus of oos-and-ahs. Over the last 60 years Lotus has carved out a name for themselves among aficionados on and off the track as exemplary examples of British auto engineering and craftsmanship.

Founded in 1952 by engineer and motorsports enthusiast Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman, better known as Colin Chapman, and his friend Colin Dare, Lotus Engineering Ltd had lofty aspirations from the start. Chapman’s desire to create competitive race cars in the years after WWII drove him to produce his first road vehicles as a way of financing his racing ambitions. In 1954 Chapman emphasized his serious interest in motorsports vehicle production by founding a separated division for racing vehicle production. In 1959 Chapman created the Lotus Group which consisted of three separate entities: Team Lotus, Lotus Cars, and Lotus Components. Team Lotus which was completely designated to motorsports, while the Lotus Cars division would focus their efforts on road vehicle manufacturing, and Lotus Components emphasis was custom vehicle production.

Between 1954 and 1994 Team Lotus engineered and entered vehicles in many series, including Formula One, Formula Two, Indy Car and sports car racing. The team won a number of titles and accolades for speed and design becoming one of the most successful racing teams of all time. Simultaneously, Lotus’s early road cars were produced and purchased only as kit cars, which lasted through the late 1960’s. After which time the auto makers began work on their first fully assembled commercial vehicle. After a collaborating with Ford on the Lotus Cortina, a kit style racer featuring a Ford engine block with Lotus head and valve gear, Lotus released the Lotus Elan Type 2 which became that first Lotus road car not offered in kit form. The Elan Type 2 was modeled after the racing version of the same model. By the mid 1970’s Lotus was producing their renowned Eclat and  Elite  models as fully factory built vehicles.

To learn more about the history of Lotus read on here.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector car insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Car Insurance: Classic, Antique, or Just Outdated?

Collector Car Insurance Classic, Antique, or Just Outdated

Collector Car Insurance: Classic, Antique, or Just Outdated?

When it comes to collecting automotive, the age of a vehicle often plays a large factor in value, classification, registration and even insurance rates you’ll pay to protect your “baby”. Evaluating a vehicle’s classification also takes into account the year, make, model and any modifications made. Classifications like “classic,” “vintage” and “antique” are often colloquially misused by the average consumer and even some enthusiasts. This is likely because there is no universal standard definition of any of these classifications.

For example, According to the Classic Car Club of America, to earn a “classic” label the auto must be between 30 and 49 years old from the post-World War II era. However, the group makes the distinction between “classic” and “Full Classic Car” which is defined as a specific set of vehicles produced between 1925 and 1948. The group also acknowledges that time-period appropriate mechanical and vehicle components are also factors when classifying a vehicle.

However, the legal definition in most states for a classic vehicle is any older motor vehicle manufactured 20 years prior to the current year which has been maintained or restored to a condition which conforms to the manufactured specifications. Authenticity of production is another critical factor in classification as replica and reproductions are not considered classic vehicles. What’s more, most insurers set their own standards when it comes to classifying automotive, which can range from specific decade markers to specific years of release.

So is there a general rule for determining whether your vehicle is classic, vintage, antique or just plain old? Not really.

Based on the combination of guidelines and definitions set by collectors clubs and other industry authorities, a classic vehicle is one which is produced between 25 and 50 years ago. While “antique” vehicles are traditionally thought of as those automobiles produced before World War II, the Classic Car Club of America and the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) any vehicle 25 years or older can qualify as an antique. Thus more collectable vehicles are “antique” than truly Classic or otherwise classified.

Luckily age isn’t the only thing that matters when it comes to collecting vehicles, in fact, for many age comes as an afterthought to styling, features, performance, rarity and other factors. Whether you like the look and performance or the history of your collectables it’s important to keep them protected.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collectible car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collectible car insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Auto Insurance: A Brief Maserati Timeline

Collector Auto Insurance:  A Brief Maserati Timeline

 Collector Auto Insurance:  A Brief Maserati Timeline

This December 1st marks Maserati’s centennial birthday. Founded in 1914 in Bologna, the Italian automaker has become one of the leading names in luxury, speed and style around the world over the last century. Humble roots and amassing achievements both on the road and the race track have helped fashion the company’s character, personality and prestige among collectors, enthusiasts and other industry members.

While you may know Maserati for their powerful engines and sleek styling, there is much more to the auto maker’s rich history than you might realize. Here are a few interesting facts about Maserati to celebrate their 100 years of accomplishments.

– The Maserati brothers, Alfieri, Bindo, Carlo, Ettore, and Ernesto were all involved in automotive manufacturing, production and racing as adolescents in the beginning of the 20th century. The bothers worked for various Italian transportation manufactures including Fiat S.p.A and Diatto. Led by Alfieri, the brothers began working as a joint-stock company under the family name.

– The logo was designed in 1920 by fifth son Mario Maserati who was an artist and the only Maserati brother not involved with engine production. The trident was chosen at the suggestion of a family friend due to its connection with Bolognia, and connotation of Neptune’s virtues of strength and vigor. Mario incorporated the colors red and blue from the flag of Bologna into the design, which remain symbolic of the brand to this day.

– For the first 12 years the brothers specialized primarily in engine building. It wasn’t until 1926 when that the Tipo 26 became the first vehicles to sport the Maserati name. After that early success the brothers began producing race cars with 4, 6, and 8 cylinder engines. They took engine performance a step further by creating a model with two twin 8 cylinder engines mounted side by side, to create a powerful 16 cylinder performance racer which would shatter speed records and help win the Maserati brothers racing prestige.

– In 1929 Maserati set the world speed record for reaching finish line speeds of 246.069 km/h, their record would remain unbroken until 1937.

– In 1939 Maserati became the first and only Italian automaker to win the Indianapolis 500, and even more impressively they were able to repeat their win the following year.

– During World War II Maserati endeavored unsuccessfully to construct a V16 towncar for Benito Mussolini before Ferry Porsche of Volkswagen could build one for Adolf Hitler. Throughout the war they became one of the largest producers of spark plugs, batteries and other automotive components for the military.

– In 1957 Maserati retired themselves from race car production to focus on road cars commercial luxury auto production. They did however continue to produce racers for privateers on a case by case basis.

– Maserati passed through a number of corporate hands over the next few decades until Fiat acquired the brand in 1993. Fiat reinvested in the Maserati brand and line at which time the brand saw a resurgence of enthusiasm and public appeal. In 1997 Fiat sold 50 percent of the Maserati to long-time German rival Ferrari. In 2007 Maserati made a profit for the first time in 17 years.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting classic, exotic, muscle and sports cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector auto insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Antique Auto Insurance: A History of Oldsmobile

Antique Auto Insurance A History of Oldsmobile

Antique Auto Insurance: A History of Oldsmobile

We can hardly speak of antique and classic cars without referencing an Oldsmobile. Founded in 1897, as the Olds Motor Vehicle Co. by Ransom E. Old, Oldsmobile was one of the oldest surviving American auto brands in the General Motor portfolio until it’s dissolution in 2004. For over one-hundred years Oldsmobile pumped out classic, reliable and sophisticated vehicles totaling roughly 35.2 million by the end of their production days.

In 1901, just four years after opening their doors, Olds produced a total of 425 vehicles, which gave the brand the distinction of becoming the first high-volume gasoline-powered automobile manufacturer. Although often credited to Henry Ford, it was Ransom Olds who pioneered the first automotive assembly line.  His innovative auto production strategies lead to the production of their first major success, the Curved Dash Olds automobile, which was colloquially shortened to the Oldsmobile by consumers. Some 19,000 Curved Dash models where produced over all between 1901 and 1907 at which time they sold for just $650 dollars.

In 1908 the company was purchased by General Motors, and in 1910 Oldsmobile began producing the widely acclaimed “Limited” Touring car. The model was luxurious; it boasted a 60 horsepower engine, factory white wheels, goatskin upholstery, and spacious accommodations for five. The Limited gained notoriety after winning a race against the 20th Century Limited Train which was immortalized in a painting by William Hardener Foster. In the 1920’s Oldsmobile was rebranded as a middle class vehicle line in the General Motors product ladder, it would later be placed above the Chevrolet and Pontiac lines and below Buick and Cadillac products. In 1929 Oldsmobile introduced the Viking line as a slightly escalated caliber of vehicles from the now common Olds however the line failed less than a year later with only a limited number of Vikings produced.

In 1940 Oldsmobile became the first auto manufacturer to offer a fully automatic transmission, called the Hydramatic, which featured four forward speeds, no clutch and a gear selector on the steering column. Olds soon after introduced their two digit model designation system which would go on to be used for all vehicles produced between 1941 and 1996. The designation system was originally implemented to reflect the design and performance elements of the vehicle. The first digit would signify the body size while the second represents the number of cylinders used in the vehicles engine. Original body sizes were 6, 7, 8, and 9, and the two options for engine size were 6 or 8-cylinder. As such, subsequent Oldsmobile models were named 66 through 98.

During World War II, Oldsmobile shifted focus to weapons and munitions production, creating numerous material for the war effort, including large-caliber guns and shells. After the war their efforts returned to vehicle production and in 1949 Oldsmobile introduced the Rocket V8 engine which utilized overhead valve systems rather than the flathead systems which we prevalent at the time. Through the 1950s, Oldsmobile played up the jet plane styling angle, incorporating twin jet pod-styled taillights and “open maw” grills as a nod to its “Rocket” motif. Heavy chrome styling and exaggerated features were staples of the Oldsmobile aesthetic, however there were not always well received.

Over the next few decades there would be a number of firsts pioneered by Oldsmobile including the first turbocharged engine in 1962 and the first modern front wheel drive capabilities. Oldsmobile was a landmark auto producer and earned their rightful place in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors of vintage, antique and classic vehicles.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting antique and vintage vehicles can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading collector auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our antique auto insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Collector Auto Insurance: A Look at the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

Collector Auto Insurance A Look at the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

Collector Auto Insurance: A Look at the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

Ferrari made headlines this summer after a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO became the most expensive car in the world when it sold for over $38 million at a California auto auction. The model, chassis number 3851GT, was number 19 of just 39 250 GTOs ever produced. As such the vehicle had been highly anticipated and discussed prior to the auction event and buzz generated quickly about its hefty reaping.

So what makes the 250 GTO’s so special? Actually, quite a bit.

The Ferrari 250 GTO was originally produced between 1962 and 1964 as a racing vehicle for the FIA (International Automobile Federation) Grand Touring category 3, which in turn is where the racer got its name. GTO stands for “Gran Turismo Omologato”, or Grand Touring Homologated, which is in reference to the type of racing while the numerical component references the displacement capacity of the powerful engine cylinders that give the model its speed. Originally the sales price for a new Ferrari 250 GOT was $18,000 on the American market, and at the time all buyers had to be personally approved by Enzo Ferrari himself and his North American dealer.

Between 1962 and 1963, Ferrari produced 33 250 GTO models with their original body styling, which can be found on the recently auctioned model. In 1964 Ferrari produced only six more 250 GTOs sporting an updated body and adjusted styling features. Such rarity highly contributes to the draw and prestige of these vehicles, which in turn sets their value on the collectors markets. However, the scarceness is not the Ferrari 250 GTO’s only asset.

As previously mentioned, the 250 GTO was designed to compete in GT racing where it was set against some of the fastest and sleekest vehicle in the world. At the time its rivals included models like the Shelby Cobra, Jaguar E-Type and Aston Martin DP214. As such, performance was paramount when designing the 250 GTO and it took a team of Ferrari engineers to craft the racer. While typically credited to Giotto Bizzarrini, as he was the initial lead engineer on the project, the 250 GTO’s creation actually passed through a number of hands, especially in 1962 when many of the major engineers were fired due to a dispute with Enzo Ferrari himself. The body design and further development of the 250 GTO was then spearheaded by engineer Mauro Forghieri and Sergio Scaglietti.

One of the most acclaimed features of the 250 GTO, it’s stunningly sleek body styling, was the result of incorporating extensive aerodynamics research into their design in an attempt to improve top speed and stability. According to experts, the final 250 GTO’s body design was shaped based on both wind tunnel testing as well as road and track testing of several prototypes and in fact continued to change and evolve through the course of the vehicle’s production. The result was the 250 GTO’s iconic all-aluminium body with a long, low nose, small radiator inlet, and distinctive air intakes on the nose with removable covers. The styling was not only incredibly efficient; it was attractive and would become synonymous with the Ferrari brand. Critis, enthusiasts and collectors adore the model so much that in in 2004, Sports Car International noted that the Ferrari 250 GTO could be the top sports car of all time.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting classic muscle and sports cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete collector auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our collector auto insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.