1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4

1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4
Sold for $335,500 Including commission
RM Auction, Amelia Island, Florida 2014
Chassis no. 15859


320 bhp, 4,390 cc dual overhead-camshaft V-12 engine with six Weber 38DCOE59/60A side-draft carburetors, five-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel upper and lower wishbone coil-spring independent suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 98.4 in.

•Recently fully restored
•Rare model; one of 505 produced
•Excellent attention to detail
•Platinum Award for First in Class at the 2014 Cavallino Classic


The Ferrari 365 GTC was developed to meet the ever-growing demand among Ferrari's clientele for high performance automobiles, while also accommodating up to four passengers. It was introduced in March 1971 to replace the 365 GTC, which had been phased out two years earlier. Enveloped in a sinuous and streamlined shape, it was clearly developed in Pininfarina's new wind tunnel, which came into operation at the time the car was being developed. It was clear that Ferrari intended this to be a much sportier alternative to other 2+2 grand tourers on the market at the time.

Its engine was based on the Daytona's 4.4-liter dual overhead-cam V-12, but the major difference was that the 365 GTCs utilized side-draft carburetion, which allowed for a sleeker and lower hood line. The chassis of the 365 GTC/4 was essentially that of a Daytona as well, albeit it was stretched an additional 100 millimeters for extra cabin room. As the 356 GTC/E employs completely unique body panels that were in no way continued from or carried over to any other model, it remains a particularly singular link in the Ferrari road car lineage, with just 500 examples built over an 18-month period.

As with all of Ferrari's four-seat models throughout the company's history, the 365 GTC/4 was lavishly appointed with sumptuous Italian leather, ZF power steering, and a radio, and many models were equipped with air conditioning. Power steering and power brakes were standard, as well as a hydro-pneumatic self-leveling device on the rear suspension, which presumably helped to accommodate its owner's luggage.

As documented by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini, this 365 GTC/4 was delivered new to a Mr. Gargano, who resided in Italy. By 1986, the car had immigrated to the United States and was listed in the Ferrari Owners' Club membership roster as under the ownership of Craig A. Davis, who resided in Atherton, California, until 1988. It remained in California until it recently joined the collection of an East Coast enthusiast, who had the car fully restored. During this process, emphasis was placed on factory originality, and the car was repainted in its correct color of Blue Ribot over the existing correct beige leather interior. Factory-correct Cromodora wheels were sourced, along with the correct mousehair interior trim.

The same level of attention to detail was carried over mechanically, as the engine received a complete service. The original carburetors were restored to as-new condition, and factory-correct engine bay wiring, coils, and distributor cap were all installed, leaving the engine bay just as it was when the car left the factory. The car is accompanied by numerous service receipts and receipts from its recent restoration, and it also includes a complete set of books and tools, as well as the original jack.

Four-seater Ferraris of any kind are ideal for grand touring, as they combine the best elements of Italian engineering and luxury. Considering its recent engine service and cosmetic refinishing, this 365 GTC/4 would be excellent for the individual looking to enjoy many fast-paced miles down the autostrada en route to concours events.

Robert Myrick Photography