A 1961 Ferrari 250 Series II Cabriolet was the headline lot of Mecum Auctions' Monterey sale on August 14-16, achieving $2.2m.

Mike Regalia of Regalia Concours Restorations worked extensively on the car before consigning it to the sale. 

He had been searching for a Series II for some time, as he was convinced the model was undervalued, before finding the present example in southern California.

The 1961 Ferrari 250 Series II Cabriolet was restored by expert Mike Regalia

He commented: "The finishes, the paint, the chrome trim, the wheels, the interior, the chassis, the engine compartment, all just looked old and untouched for the most part, but it looked really 'good old.'"

While much of the car is original, Regalia decided not to get bogged down in the search for contemporary parts - particularly in regard to the engine.

"Although there are many places that are imperfect by today's standards, nevertheless those imperfections are an integral part of the overall continuity of the preservation," he explained.

"It's far easier to start from scratch than it is to preserve originality, and making decisions on just how far to go is a constant thought process throughout."

The sale took place as part of the annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in Monterey, California, where some of the world's most desirable cars are displayed and sold.

On August 15 a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta sold for $38.1m, a world record for a car at auction.

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