Classic Ferrari 250 GT Build Exudes Wolfish Charm

RML Short Wheelbase Ferrari appeals with classic sophistication; but a savage V12 gives the wolf in sheep’s clothing a vicious bite.  

Go big or go home. That have been the driving force behind RML Group as they undertook a very ambitious build. Their RML Short Wheelbase conceptualizes a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB with modern technology and power. And we do mean power. Beneath the refined, sleek lines lies a Ferrari V12 engine. It isn’t often you come across Ferrari restomods from this era; especially one that blends the classic with the contemporary so artfully.

As an engineering company, RML has worked on a range of products for OEMs; including race cars, supercars, and continuation models. But the team was ready for a very different challenge in the RML Short Wheelbase; the first car to wear the RML nameplate. They wanted an old-school Ferrari that incorporates the marque’s legacy of driving purity, with a resolute goal of adding modern power and amenities.

The result is a staggeringly beautiful classic racer that subtly, thoughtfully, and effectively uses modern tech. And beyond the V12’s firepower, the car is more driver friendly, versatile, and capable than its 60-something inspiration.

Powered by a 5474cc (5.4L) Ferrari V12 engine, it produces 478 hp and 419 lb-ft of torque. Drive is delivered to the rear wheels through a Ferrari six-speed manual gearbox, and controlled by an open-gated manual shift. Performance is optimal, making a with 0-60 mph sprint in 4.1 seconds with top speed in excess of 185 mph.

“The Short Wheelbase was never conceived to compete … with a typical supercar’s acceleration or top speed,” said Michael Mallock, RML’s Chief Executive. “Our car takes a step back from that, and while it’s certainly rapid, our emphasis has always been on capturing a more organic driving experience; with less intervention and more useable performance, while still making it comfortable and convenient enough for people to enjoy regularly on modern roads.”

Convenience extends to the spacious cabin that cleverly integrates modern components throughout.

Maintaining the familiar classic proportions was a priority from the start. While the car is larger dimensionally, the famous lines have been retained, and features like the stacked rear lights, exposed fuel filler, chip-cutter front grille and vents appearing behind each wheel and on the hood have all been carefully reimagined.

“After almost three years, we are nearing completion of the Short Wheelbase’s development,” Mallock says. “So this car showcases much of the experience we’ve gained from not only designing and building low-volume, high-end motor cars, but also implementing thorough testing procedures to make sure that driving them is an emotional experience for all the right reasons.”

Oh we have no doubt that this carbon fiber-rich Ferrari will hit many on a visceral level.

The RML Short Wheelbase will go on sale later this year, with a limited production of around 30 cars.

Photos: RML Group 

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S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.