1971 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 Coupe

Description

Replacing the 365 GTC in Ferrari’s model line-up and powered by the classic quad cam 4.4-litre V12 engine, the 365 GTC/4 was launched at the 1971 Geneva Salon.  Closely related to the legendary Daytona, the C/4’s curvaceous bodywork was the work of master carrozzeria Pininfarina with typical design details of the era such as pop-up headlamps, six tail lights and Kamm tail, along with a distinctive black rubber front bumper surrounding the classic egg-crate grille.  The 2500mm wheelbase allowed for two-plus-two seating in the roomy cockpit, upholstered in either Connolly leather or plaid cloth with leather surrounds.  With an emphasis on luxury rather than outright performance, the 365 GTC/4 boasted power-assisted steering and hydraulic self-levelling on the rear suspension, while the 60-degree V12 employed six Weber side-draught carburettors and wet-sump lubrication to fit under the lower bonnet line, developing a healthy 320bhp at 7000rpm.  Power was fed to the rear wheels via five-speed transmission with a single-plate Borg & Beck clutch and limited-slip differential while other notable features include the five-spoke alloy wheels (Borrani wires were still an option popular with American customers) with triple-ear knock-off hubs and ventilated disc brakes.  Weighing in at 1480 kg, the Ferrari was capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 6.4 seconds on the way to top speed of 161 mph, putting the car in an exclusive club.  Produced from 1971 until 1973, just 500 units were completed (roughly one third of the Daytona), making the 365 GTC/4 considerably rarer than most contemporary models.  Only a handful were delivered new to Australia through distributor W H Lowe but a few more have reached our shores over the years, swelling the total to around 20.