1971 Ferrari 365 GTC/4

1971 Ferrari 365 GTC/4
Coachwork by Pininfarina
Chassis no. 14461
4,390cc DOHC V12 Engine
6 Weber Side-Draft Carburetors
340bhp at 7,000rpm
5-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*1 of only 505 GTC/4s produced
*Recent service in May of 2019
*Long term enthusiast ownership
*European specification model delivered new to Italy
*Elegant Pininfarina styling with V12 power

THE FERRARI 365 GTC/4

Introduced at the March 1971 Geneva Motor Show, the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 was derived from the chassis of the 365GTB/4 Daytona of 1968. The engine was similar to the 4,390cc DOHC V12 of the Daytona, but new heads and a lower compression ratio of 8.8:1 lowered brake horsepower to 340, slightly less for emissions-controlled American cars. Six side-draft Weber 38 DCOE carburetors fueled the engine, which used wet sump lubrication.

The wheelbase, at 94.5 inches, remained unchanged. Improvements included standard power steering and a larger luggage compartment, while the side-draft carburetors allowed a lower hood line. In contrast to the Daytona, however, which used a rear-mounted transaxle, the GTC/4 had its gearbox, a five-speed manual unit, mounted to the engine. Suspension was independent all around, with unequal-length control arms and coil springs, anti-roll bar and hydraulic self-leveling.

Designed and built by Pininfarina, the coupe bodies were shipped to Maranello for assembly. The low hood permitted by the side-draft carburetors incorporated retractable headlamps, and a handsome Kamm tail featured traditional Ferrari tail lamps. The interior was a completely new design with more comfortable seating, although the occasional "+2" seats in the rear were best used folded as luggage space. The seats had cloth inserts as standard, for comfort in warm weather, although air conditioning was standard. Full leather upholstery was available as an option.

The 365 GTC/4's handling has been described as "phenomenal," even with the tire technology of the time. Brakes, 11-plus-inch ventilated discs all around, are similarly up to the task.

Just 505 GTC/4s were built from 1971 to 1973. 325 of these remained in Europe. Road & Track called it 'a graceful, clean and understated design.' It is all that and more.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This outstanding example of Modena's rare grand tourer was born in October of 1971, adorned with Azzurro Gladiateur paint over a Nero interior and sold in Milan for the purchase price of 9'750'000 Italian Lire. After a short stay in its country of birth, the car was exported to California in 1972. After spending time with two enthusiasts, the car was acquired by Continental Classic Motors of Hinsdale, Illinois who conducted a bare metal respray in the current shade of red. The car would eventually make its way back to California where it was purchased by Virgil Elings. Virgil is best known for his world class motorcycle collection which is that of the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum! After Virgil's time with the car, it was entrusted to Winning Makes of Santa Barbara, California, where the consignor purchased the vehicle. The 2006 ad for the car noted a substantial list of mechanical services which had just been carried out. Some of the major items listed included the replacement of the timing chains, replacement of the water pump, a new clutch and flywheel, and a full rebuild of the carbs, braking systems, and ignition.

Since acquiring the car over a decade ago, the consignor has continued to diligently maintain the thoroughbred to the highest of standards. In May of this year, the Ferrari specialists at Competizione & Sports Cars performed a 2-year annual service where all fluids were refreshed. During this most recent service, the air-conditioning system and brakes were also gone through and serviced. Receipts on file document this $4,000 service and the many others dating back to 2007. Thanks to its multiple long-term enthusiast owners and their strict maintenance schedules during the cars less than 50,000 miles, the car performs beautifully. Cosmetically the car shows just as wonderfully as it drives. The paint possesses a deep and rich shine, while the highly original and correct interior shows just the right level patina. A traditional front-engine V12 Ferrari with an elegant and sleek Pininfarina design combines to make the GTC/4 a true classic. Presented with a tool kit, copy of build documents, and a history report by Marcel Massini this sporting Coupe should offer its new owner tremendous pride and sublime driving.