Lot details
Registration No: PHR 45F
Chassis No: 10157
Mot Expiry: June 2008

Heir apparent to Ferrari's revered 250 GT Lusso, the 330 GTC was unveiled during the March 1966 Geneva Salon. Although, long recognised as one of Maranello's most accomplished GT cars, the model arguably began life as something of a 'cherry picking' exercise (at least in stylistic and engineering terms). Derived from that of the 275 GTB, its tubular steel chassis frame featured an identical 2400mm wheelbase (but wider track), all-round independent suspension, worm and peg steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Notably refined and balanced thanks to the use of a rigid drivetrain-linking torque tube and rear-mounted five-speed transaxle, the coupe was powered by a Colombo-inspired 3967cc SOHC V12 engine (variants of which had already seen service aboard the 400 Superamerica and 330 GT 2+2). Credited with developing some 300bhp and 288lbft of torque, this smooth and flexible unit reputedly enabled the 330 GTC to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds and onto 151mph.

Linked via a wheelarch skimming crease line and offset by a delicately pillared glasshouse, the newcomer's handsome visage and subtly rounded tail were borrowed from the 500 Superfast and 275 GTS respectively. Typical Pininfarina, the two-seater's elegant yet understated design belies its forty plus years with ease. Handling and riding with considerable aplomb, the Ferrari rode on 'ten hole' cast alloy Borrani wheels that were 2.5 inches wider than those found on the contemporary Porsche 911S. Further benefiting from a light and airy cabin boasting thickly padded rake / reach adjustable leather seats, electric windows and a generously stocked teak veneered dashboard, the 330 GTC was loved by the press and public alike. Superseded by the equally polished 365 GTC in 1968, just 600 are thought to have been made (though, reputedly only 21 were to UK right-hand drive specification).

First registered to Maranello Concessionaires on 7th August 1967, chassis 10157 spent just over a year in use as a demonstrator before being acquired by its first private keeper, Colonel Derek Gordon Clancy of Tadworth (Surrey), on 17th September 1968. Driven extensively in Belgium as surviving Ecurie Francorchamps invoices from July 1970 (34,537 BEF) and March 1973 (137,651 BEF) reveal, the right-hand drive coupe entered the current (second private) ownership via G.M. Campbell Motor Engineers of Barking on 23rd June 1975. The subject of various number plate changes over the years, the Ferrari is believed but not warranted to have covered some 86,000 miles from new. Treated to a major mechanical refurbishment by Tony Curtis of Brimscombe, Gloucestershire some 12,000 miles ago (June 1989), work not only included an engine overhaul (new cylinder liners, pistons, main / big-end bearings, timing chains, camshaft rollers and re-profiled camshafts) but also the fettling of various ancillaries (water / oil / fuel pumps, engine mounts, distributors, carburettors, disc brakes and front suspension).

Upgraded with a stainless steel exhaust in 1989 and twin Kenlowe fans five years later, the 330 GTC has since benefited from a partial bodywork restoration, full respray and extensive re-trim. Carried out between 1999 and 2001, these more recent improvements were entrusted to Mike Clarke Classic Cars of Malmesbury, Pat Yat Developments of Kemble and T.A. & J.M. Coburn of Blunsdon respectively. Finished in metallic silver with light blue leather upholstery and dark blue carpets, chassis 10157 appears to be in good overall condition. Starting readily upon a recent inspection, its last long journey was apparently a return jaunt to Scotland. Requiring little more than two new track rod ends to pass its latest MOT test, this handsome and rare RHD Ferrari 330 GTC is offered for sale with history file, various tax discs back to 1977, assorted MOT certificates back to 1989, continuation green logbook, numerous restoration invoices, owner's handbook, spare parts list and MOT certificate valid until June 2008.

PLEASE NOTE: Since the catalogue went to press the vendor's agent has informed us that this vehicle is accompanied by two leather rolls one containing a jack and the other various tools (though, he guesses that the latter is only 70% - 80% complete).