Vehicle Description
Defining the pinnacle of Ferrari's history is no easy task, but the
period from 1958 to 1968 stands out as a particularly notable era.
During this decade, Scuderia Ferrari achieved remarkable success,
winning three Formula 1 World Drivers' Championships and two
Constructors' titles. At Le Mans, Ferrari cars claimed an
impressive seven victories in eight years. Simultaneously, the
company's road car production grew substantially, from 183 cars in
1958 to approximately 729 by 1968.
A key factor in Ferrari's growth throughout the 1960s was the
introduction of a series of four-seat grand touring cars with
front-mounted V-12 engines. The first of these models was the 250
GT 2+2, launched in 1959. It featured the same 3.0-liter V-12
engine and 96.5-inch wheelbase as the two-seat 250 GT, but with a
12-inch extended body and a repositioned driver's seat. The
relocation of the fuel tank and a modest increase in weight ensured
that the driving experience remained exceptional. With 957 units
sold, it surpassed the 250 GT Coupe Pinin Farina, which had
previously been Ferrari's most produced model.
In 1963, Ferrari introduced the 330 America, which debuted with a
new 4.0-liter Tipo 209 engine, providing an increase of around 60
horsepower to reach 300 horsepower. This engine was later featured
in the 1964 330 GT 2+2. The 330 GT 2+2, with its revised
Pininfarina design, included a five-speed gearbox and offered
optional power steering and air conditioning, catering to the
American market. The model proved popular, with 1,087 units
produced between 1964 and 1967.
By 1967, the 330 GT 2+2 was considered outdated both technically
and stylistically. Ferrari responded with the introduction of the
365 GT 2+2 at the Paris Motor Show. This model came with a new
4.4-liter Tipo 245 V-12 engine, delivering 320 horsepower, and was
the first Ferrari GT 2+2 to feature all-independent suspension. As
a spiritual successor to the 500 Superfast, the 365 GT 2+2 came
generously equipped with standard power steering, servo-assisted
brakes, and air conditioning. It boasted a spacious interior and
ample luggage space, with a hydro-pneumatic self-leveling rear
suspension for added comfort. Despite its focus on luxury, the 365
GT 2+2 offered impressive performance, reaching 100 km/h in just
over seven seconds and a top speed of 246 km/h. Its responsive
engine, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, and excellent steering
ensured it remained a driver's car at heart.
This Ferrari 365 GT 2+2, chassis 13471, was delivered new in August
1970 through French dealer Charles Pozzi SA and finished in Oro
Kelso (Gold) with a black interior. Within a decade the car had
migrated to the US, and was acquired by Leonard Blaylock Ill in
Houston, Texas. By 1987, the Ferrari was in the hands of collector
Dick McClure in Stockton, California. During that time, it received
considerable refurbishment work performed by renowned Ferrari
specialist Patrick Ottis. A repaint in black was also carried out,
leading to its display at shows including the Concorso Italiano.
After being acquired by Carter Emerson of Three Oaks, Michigan in
2010, further work ensued, including adding air conditioning, which
was overseen by Greg Jones of Florida. According to records on
file, the Ferrari resided in the U.A.E. in 2021, where it received
further restorative work, including a second refinish in black,
before returning to the US.
While never having a full nut and bolt restoration, the car has
been meticulously preserved over the years. The paintwork remains
exceptional, and the brightwork is both sharp and brilliant, and
the car rides on bright Borrani wire wheels with proper Michelin
XWX 215/70/R15 tires. The distinctive quad-tip exhaust is
remarkably clean and prominent, while delivering a beautiful tone
from the robust V12 engine.
The interior of this 365 GT 2+2, while showing some minor signs of
age and use over the years, continues to exude its classic charm.
The Pelle Nera leather upholstery has been beautifully maintained,
the lovely wood dashboard is in excellent condition and features a
Blaupunkt AM/FM radio. The engine bay is remarkably clean and tidy,
reflecting its ongoing maintenance and care. Ferrari Classiche
certification was attained in 2013, with acknowledgement that the
original engine was replaced by a Classiche-stamped unit, no. 245,
and included with the car is an original owner's manual set in its
leather wallet, as well as the Ferrari Red Book.
The 2+2 presented here has participated the Going to the Sun Rally
as well as having been displayed at Concorso Italiano. With its
sinister color combination, gorgeous Pininfarina lines, and a
powerful V-12 under the hood, chassis number 13471 offers a
definitive Ferrari experience fully befitting Road & Track's "Queen
Mother of Ferraris" declaration.
Offers welcome and trades considered
