I performed an inspection on this 1989 Ferrari F40 at the RM Sotheby’s auction at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles. This is one of the earliest versions of the F40 that featured Lexan sliding door windows, Classiche Certified by Ferrari. Due to specification, these are the lightest examples featuring Lexan sliding door windows, lightweight doors, no catalytic converter, and nonadjustable suspension. Very few early cars have made into the US. I feel these earliest “Sliding Window” examples are the most desirable variant of the F40. The exact production numbers are unknown but believed to be approximately 60 units.
The specification of the early cars was for ultimate performance without any regard to compliance for various federal laws. As a result, the later variants became compliant to world markets. The cars built for the US market are desirable, but with sacrifices to the original design. This 1989 Ferrari F40 inspection determined this to be a great example. The car was sold at the auction for $1,545,000 including buyers premium. In my opinion, this will prove to be well bought in the future.
I perform inspections on Ferrari and all other marques throughout the United States and Canada. I attend the auctions in Scottsdale, Monterey, and Amelia every year. Because of this, I am available for inspections at RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Co., and Bonhams. I also regularly attend Mecum, Russo and Steele, Barrett-Jackson, and GAA auctions. If you are considering the purchase of a special interest car, contact us to perform an auction inspection of the vehicle for you. I can perform Inspection services in many cases within 48 hours. Contact us today at 772.621.2622 to discuss your needs or use our online Pre Purchase Inspection Request Form.
