Ferrari 3.0-Liter Colombo V12 Engine – 250 GTE Series I – Partial Rebuild Core

This Ferrari 3.0-liter Colombo V12 engine is a factory-correct powerplant originally produced for a Series I Ferrari 250 GTE. The engine was acquired by the current owner approximately 20 years ago and, though last run in 2022, is currently in a partially disassembled state. It is offered as a rebuild core with a range of original and retained components included, making it an ideal candidate for collectors or specialists seeking to restore a classic 250-series drivetrain.

The Colombo V12, Ferrari’s iconic early V12 architecture, was produced in various iterations from 1947 through 1988. The 250-series version displaces 2,953cc (3.0 liters) with a 73mm bore and 58.8mm stroke, constructed from aluminum alloy for lightweight performance. This engine was documented with an invoice from 2006 noting replacement of the cylinder heads, camshafts, and intake manifolds.

Technical Specifications

• Engine Type: Ferrari Colombo V12

• Application: Ferrari 250 GTE Series I

• Displacement: 2,953 cc (3.0L)

• Bore x Stroke: 73 mm x 58.8 mm

• Block & Heads: Aluminum alloy

• Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshafts per bank

• Ignition: Dual Magnetti Marelli distributors included

• Included Components:

  • Black-finished valve covers

  • Oil sump pan

  • Roelofs Engineering cylinder heads with camshafts, valves, and springs

  • Pistons, connecting rods, camshaft followers, timing chain (all removed for transport)

• Engine Codes: Block stamped 2799 and 582 E

Condition & Notes

• Partially disassembled engine, sold as a rebuild core

• Low compression on cylinder #10 and a leak at the water pump noted prior to disassembly

• Carburetors, exhaust manifolds, and various ancillaries not included

• Engine retains key components suitable for restoration, including distributors, valve covers, cylinder heads, and internal hardware

• Recommended inspection, replacement of removed internal components, and full rebuild prior to installation

Collector & Restoration Value

• Original Colombo V12 for Ferrari 250 GTE Series I

• Includes documented replacement cylinder heads and camshafts from 2006

• Retains critical Ferrari components for authenticity, including dual distributors and Roelofs Engineering heads

• Perfect candidate for a high-value restoration or concours-quality rebuild

• Increasingly rare opportunity to acquire a core Ferrari Colombo V12 from the early 1960s