It's one of the most coveted collector cars in history, considered by many to be among the best looking race cars ever made and Ferrari no longer owns the trademark to it's most recognizable design. European courts have ruled in favor of Ares Design who argued that Ferrari has not used the shape of the car since 1964, far longer than the five year 'use it or lose it' clause in European trademark laws. This opens the door for clone and replica makers to fashion their own versions with the corresponding nameplate.
The Ferrari 250 GTO
With only 36 examples built from 1962 to 1964, the Ferrari 250 GTO still managed to make its mark, firmly placing Ferrari as the best sports car maker in the world. GTO stands for Gran Turismo Omologato, or Grand Touring Homologated. "Homologated" was the process of building just enough road going models to satisfy the Group 3 Grand Touring requirements, where the 250 GTO would face off against the Jaguar E-Type and Shelby Cobra.
Worlds Most Expensive Car
Initially selling for $18,000 in the United States to buyers pre-approved by Enzo Ferrari himself, the car has gone on to become the most sought after car in the world. In 2018 a private sale made it the most expensive car ever sold at $70 million.
Trademark and Clones
Cars like the Cobra and Lotus Super 7 have had second lives as clones, kits, and continuation models have been offered since the original cars were discontinued. In 2008 Ferrari filed a trademark on the shape of the GTO to protect the iconic look of the car, but Ares Design argued that the trademark was filed to block people using the shape that Ferrari hasn't used since the car ceased production in 1964.
This follows similar cases involving Land Rover and Enios over the shape of the Defender. Earlier Italian courts had ruled in a case involving Ares Design that the 250 GTO was a work of art that could not be replicated. Ferrari will retain control over toy versions.
Source: This is Money