British radio and TV presenter Chris Evans just bought a rare vintage Ferrari 250 GTO for a mere $17.7 million (£12 million). Mr Evans, who is known for his love of Ferraris, had to sell 3 of his own Ferraris to afford the stunning 1963 Berlinetta sports car.

With only 36 ever made, Ferrari 250 GTOs are highly sought after and considered one of the most collectible models ever produced by the Italian supercar manufacturer. Capable of accelerating to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and of reaching a top speed of 174 mph, the 250 GTO initially cost £6,000 when first sold 47 years ago.

Chris Evans, who first became famous on GLR radio and fronting the TV show The Big Breakfast on Channel 4 in the 1990s, has an estimated fortune of £45 million. He is reported to have paid $17.7 million for the Ferrari (chassis no. 4675 GT) from a Japanese investor.

The 3-litre V12 supercar was designed to compete in GT racing and capable of delivering 302 BHP at 7,500 rpm. Classic and Sports Car magazine recently described it as: “Perfection… the Leonardo da Vinci of motoring.”

The sale was arranged by RM Auctions, who were not available for further comments. According to their press release today: "In April 1963, 4675 GT left the factory finished in Rosso Cina. It was raced by such drivers as Guido Fossati, Jean Guichet, Oddone Sigala, Vincenzo Nember and Luigi Taramazzo and proved itself a tremendously capable racing car, rarely finishing outside the top three in its class and achieving numerous race wins."

It is estimated that the car will cost Mr Evans over £1,000 a month to insure.

What do you think, is this a worthwhile investment? Alternatively, what cars would you pick if you had $17.7 million to spend on motors?

If you haven't got that kind of spare cash available, you could try winning a new Ferrari with Best of the Best supercar competitions for as little as £20.

2 comments so far, what say you?