The 365 GTB/4 berlinetta was announced at the Paris Salon in October 1968 and featured brand-new coachwork penned by Pininfarina designer Leonardo Fioravanti. The shark-nose styling was a significant departure from prior models that was never to be repeated, making the model one of the most unique in Maranello’s entire production history. As Ferrari had recently swept the competition with a 1-2-3 finish at the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona with an assortment of P3, P3/4, and 412 P models, the new road car was nicknamed the Daytona, although this name was never officially endorsed by the factory.
Despite looking quite unlike its predecessor, the 365 GTB/4 was directly developed from the 275 GTB/4. Two prototypes left the factory showing the evolution between the two models but underneath the skin was a similar chassis. Despite the engine increasing in capacity by over a litre, the quad-cam timing, six twin-choke Weber carburettors and dry-sump lubrication remained, all features derived from Ferrari’s dominant success at the race circuit. The 275’s outstanding weight distribution remained with the continued use of the transaxle.
When the 365 GTB/4 was launched it was one of the most powerful cars ever produced, designed to easily cross continents at outrageous speeds. This was typified by Dan Gurney and Brock Yates claiming the first Cannonball Run victory in a 365 GTB/4, charging from New York City to Los Angeles in just under 36 hours. Away from illegal road racing, the 365 GTB/4 was developed by Ferrari for Group IV GT racing. Results were tremendous, as the race-prepared Berlinettas captured 4th overall at the 1971 Tour de France, 5th overall and 1st in class at the 1972 24 Hours of Le Mans, 1st and 2nd overall in the 1972 Tour de France, two further class wins at Le Mans in 1973 and 1974, and at the 24 Hours of Daytona a 2nd overall and class win in the 1973 running and a further class win there in 1975. So potent was the Daytona Competizione that one even achieved 2nd overall at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1979, over a decade after the model was introduced.
This extraordinary race record secured the 365 GTB/4’s reputation amongst the greatest GT competition cars ever to compete on track, reminding the motorsport world of Ferrari’s dominance in endurance racing with the 250 SWB, 250 GTO, and 250 LM.
** SIMILAR VEHICLES ALWAYS REQUIRED**
Selling? Our brokerage sale program is a great way to utilise and access our marketing services and knowledge while maximising the return of your vehicle with minimal hassle, If you’d like to take advantage of this then please get in touch for further information.
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website has been compiled by Classic Insider with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. Classic Insider is not liable for any errors or mistakes.
Comments