1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso
The Lusso had evolved from the dual-purpose 250 GT Short Wheel Base (SWB), which was delivered as both as alloy bodied competition or a steel-bodied grand touring car. When the SWB became outdated, it was replaced in 1962 with the more curvaceous 250 GT Lusso.
The very first Lusso appeared in October of 1962 at the Paris Salon and received lots of interest with its exquisite proportions. It became instantly recognizable with a sweeping side profile, full-length fenders, slim pillars, truncated tail and minimal bumpers. Production began in January of 1963 and lasted until August of 1964.
Inside, the Lusso was well appointed with ample room for two and a luggage area behind the front seats. This was possible because the Lusso used the earlier SWB chassis, but with its engine mounted 4 inches further forward to increase passenger space. The engine used was the same type 168 version for the 250 motor, along with a 4 speed gear box. The rear axle was better located with the addition of a watts link. Rear axle ratios typically fitted were ether 9×34 (3.78 to 1) and 8×32 (4.0 to 1).
350 examples of the Lusso were constructed with the bodies built by Scaglietti.
Restoration Update: December 12, 2011
The steering wheel had never been refinished and had developed a lot of hairline cracks. I stripped the wheel and glued up the cracks with West Systems epoxy. Then i stained the wood and applied 8 coats of Epiphanes Spar Varnish. One technique that worked especially well was attaching the wheel to a rotisserie while the varnish dried. This helped