Lot details Registration No: VPG 99G Chassis No: 11381 Mot Expiry: 14.3.2008
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 Superseded by the equally polished 365 GTC in 1968, just 600 are thought to have been made (though, only a small number were to right-hand drive specification).
Finished in Amaranto with beige leather upholstery, this particular right-hand drive example is variously described by the vendor as being in "all working" (electrical equipment), "good" (engine, wheels / tyres), "very good" (seats, bodywork) or "excellent" (paintwork) condition. Reportedly arriving at Maranello Concessionaires sometime during April 1968, 'VPG 99G' is rumoured to have spent the next few months in use as a demonstrator before being acquired by M.J.R. Alderson Esq. of Mansfield House, Sunninghill for the princely sum of £6,500. Serviced by Maranello Concessionaires until passing into the hands of its London-based second keeper N.M. Smith in 1979, the 330 GTC has since been specialist maintained. Treated to a bodywork restoration and interior re-trim by Prestige of Brocket Park and Moto-Trim of Chertsey respectively in 1995, the following year saw its appearance further smartened by Moto Technique of West Moseley. Apparently the recipient of "a £3,000 transmission overhaul in 2006", the Ferrari performed well during a recent test drive. Believed but not warranted to have covered just 65,000 miles from new, 'VPG 99G' has been in the current (fourth private) ownership for five years. Said to have been "maintained properly throughout its life with whatever work necessary being done", this delectable Ferrari 330 GTC is offered for sale with service history, MOT certificate valid until March 14th 2008 and historic class (free) road tax.
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