1985 Ferrari 288 GTO Auctioned for Up to $11 Million

RM Sotheby’s is set to auction an exceptionally rare 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO during its annual Monterey sale, with an estimated sale price ranging from $9 million to $11 million USD. This particular example is noted for its extremely low mileage, showing just 958 miles on the odometer, placing it among a select group of fewer than six 288 GTOs globally believed to have accumulated less than 1,000 miles. The 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO represents the marque's first 'halo' supercar, a designation reserved for its most exclusive and high-performance models. It is the 99th unit produced out of a total of 272 examples manufactured between 1984 and 1987. The design of the 288 GTO is attributed to Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina, and this specific car features a body constructed from Kevlar for the hood and molded fiberglass for other panels, all finished in the iconic Rosso Corsa red. The interior is a two-seat configuration upholstered entirely in Nero black leather and equipped with factory options such as air conditioning and power windows. Powering this supercar is a matching-numbers 2.9-liter V-8 engine, enhanced with IHI twin-turbochargers. This engine produces 389 horsepower and 366 lb-ft of torque, delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The engine is capable of reaching 7,700 rpm, enabling the 288 GTO to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately five seconds and achieve a top speed of 179 mph. The vehicle has been certified by Ferrari Classiche, a department dedicated to preserving the heritage and authenticity of classic Ferraris, confirming its originality and condition. The RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale, where this 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO will be auctioned, is scheduled to take place from August 13 to August 15, 2026. This event is a prominent fixture in the automotive auction calendar, attracting collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. The 288 GTO was originally conceived to compete in the FIA Group B racing homologation, a category known for its powerful and exotic rally cars, though the series was ultimately canceled before the GTO could officially compete. Its development pushed the boundaries of Ferrari's engineering at the time, incorporating advanced materials and forced induction technology into a road-legal package. The limited production run and its historical significance as the first turbocharged V8 Ferrari, coupled with its exceptional condition and low mileage, contribute to its high expected auction value. The sale offers a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a significant piece of Ferrari's performance heritage.