50-year-old car has price tag of more than £6m

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder is considered by experts to be one of the most “beautiful and desirable” sports cars in existence.

It was designed by Sergio Pininfarina and built by Sergio Scaglietti – two of the most iconic names in automotive history. Both have died in past 12-months.

Under the bonnet is a 3-litre V12 engine, which developed an impressive 280bhp when it rolled off the production line. The Italian firm built just 100 250 GT California Spyders, with only 37 of these models having the shorter wheelbase.

In 2008, Chris Evans paid £5.5m for a short wheelbase model which used to belong to James Coburn.

However, the price of vintage Ferraris has increased since then with this model expected to fetch more than £6m when it is sold by RM Auctions in Monterey next week.

Rob Myers, chairman and founder of RM Auctions, said: “This remains one of the world’s most coveted automobiles

“The example on offer is emphatically one of the most desirable open GT cars ever made, combining all of Ferrari’s finest work: perfect design with tremendous performance.”

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder has always been a hit among wealthy owners and investors, but it achieved global notoriety in 1986.

This was when a model was the star in the comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – although  studio bosses used a replica with an original too valuable to be smashed up on set.

The model going under the hammer was sold new in March 1962 through a Belgian dealer before it was imported into the USA in 1970.

Mr Myers added: “The opportunity to acquire a short wheelbase California Spyder rarely comes along, particularly one of this pedigree and exceptional rarity.

“We are truly delighted to present this stunning automobile on behalf of its owner at our upcoming Monterey sale.

“A magnificent example of one of the world’s most revered Ferraris, we expect it to garner strong interest when it crosses the podium on 18 August.”