One of the rarest Ferraris 288 GTO Evoluzione, is for sale

the Ferrari 288 GTO Evolution 1987, is a reminder that the automaker was looking to join the most extreme racing class of the 1980s.

One of only five in existence, the car was an evolution of the 288 GTO, as permitted by FIA regulations, which were intended to homologate the marque's entry into Group B sports car racing.

However, the class was quickly canceled after a series of tragic accidents.

Thus, Ferrari gave up after having built only five of the 20 homologation models it wanted.

So while it never had the opportunity to actually race it, all indications point to it being an impressive beast.

Technical specifications of the 288 GTO Evoluzione

Powered by the Type F114 CK engine, it was capable of producing 650 horsepower (485 kW/659 PS), 60% more than the standard 288 GTO could manage.

Weighing just 940 kg (2,072 lbs), he therefore had the best power-to-weight ratio of any rival in his day.

In addition, it was capable of reaching 369.9 km/h (229.9 mph). While it was impressive, it seems that its design sought to prioritize function over aesthetics.

Far from being identical to the supercar that followed it, the 288 GTO Evoluzione became an important test bed for the F40.

This example, chassis number 79888, the fourth of five, was first purchased by Jean Blaton.

The man was a wealthy Belgian industrialist who was also a practical privateer race car driver.

Having raced at Le Mans 15 times in the 50s, 60s and 70s, he drove some of Ferrari's most iconic cars, such as:

• 250 Testa Rossa;
• 250 LM;
• 250 GTO;
• 330 P4, among others.

One of Ferrari's favorite privateers, he was an obvious recipient of the 288 GTO Evoluzione.

Since then, the car has been owned by several collectors over the years, most notably by Lawrence Stroll.

Model is now for sale

Now being sold by a dealer in Germany, the car was recently returned to Michelotto in Padua, who helped Ferrari with the original build.

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However, most of its elements have been replaced, such as:

• shock absorbers;
• brake calipers;
• Water pump;
• Both turbos have been overhauled;
• New tires were installed;
• Original gearbox has been brought back to like new condition.

So the last Enzo Ferrari-approved GT race car, the road legal powerhouse, is a piece of history and an important link in Ferrari's history.