2014_09_13-motor-uk

MOTOR CARS | 71

Introduced in January 1964, the 330 GT 2+2 was based on the
preceding 250 GTE model, Ferrari’s first quantity-production four-
seater road car. Ferrari’s production partner, Pininfarina, had again
been entrusted with the latest model’s styling. Most notably – and
controversially - they adopted a four-headlamp frontal treatment
that reflected the perceived contemporary tastes of Ferrari’s most
important export market, the USA. Although some criticized its
styling, and the departure from European norms in its adoption of the
four-headlight system, what would become known retrospectively as
the ‘Series 1’ four-headlight 330 GT would become truly evocative
of 1960s fashion, lauded both for its individuality and for Pininfarina’s
purity of design in such a Grand Touring conveyance for the gentry.

Like its predecessor, the 330 GT employed a sturdy tubular chassis
welded-up from mixed oval and round stock, though this time some
50mm – 2-inches - longer in its wheelbase, which greatly improved
cabin space for the occasional rear-seat passengers. Suspension
was independent at the front by wishbones and coil springs while at
the rear a live axle/semi-elliptic system was retained. Improvements
to the model’s disc brake system saw separate hydraulic circuits
provided for the front and rear brake calipers.

The 330’s Colombo-type, 60-degree, two-cam, V12 engine had first

appeared in the 330 America (effectively a re-engined 250 GTE 2+2)

introduced in 1963. Displacing 3,967cc, the all-alloy unit was good

for 300-plus horsepower at 6,600rpm, an output sufficient to propel

the 330 GT to a maximum velocity of 152mph (245km/h) making it,

when introduced, the fastest road-going Ferrari. Built alongside the

ultra-exclusive Superamerica, the 330 GT became Ferrari’s ultimate

Gran Turismo for the sophisticated client during the “swinging

‘sixties”. A personal favorite of Enzo Ferrari himself, the 330 GT

would become the first of his production cars to sell more than 1,000

units.

This is a handsome example of the now rare ‘Series I’ 4-headlight

330 GT and it is offered here direct from very long-term museum

display. We therefore recommend expert inspection and careful

re-commissioning before a new owner might consider using the car

in earnest.

Please note this vehicle is subject to import tax should it remain in

the EU.

£120,000 - 150,000

€150,000 - 190,000