
The 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB-C Berlinetta is a racing evolution of the road-going 275 GTB, crafted to maintain Ferrari’s dominance on international circuits. A blend of exquisite design, groundbreaking engineering, and raw racing power, this car is one of the most iconic and desirable Ferraris of the 1960s.
The pictured vehicle was the first official competition GTB. It was first raced at the Nurburgring and the Targa Florio as a prototype. It was then painted yellow and raced by Ecurie Franchorchamps with drivers Willy Mairesse and Jean Blanton. After being homologated the car was raced at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1965 were it placed first in the GT class garnering the first 275 GTB victory. This was followed by an outright win for Charlie Kolb at Nassau.
Overview
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Production Year: 1965
- Designer: Pininfarina (bodywork by Scaglietti)
- Class: Grand tourer, competition version
- Chassis: Lightweight tubular steel
Engine Specifications
- Type: 3.3-liter (3286 cc) V12 engine
- Configuration: 60-degree naturally aspirated Colombo V12
- Bore x Stroke: 77 mm x 58.8 mm
- Power Output: Approximately 320 horsepower at 7,500 rpm
- Valvetrain: Single overhead camshaft per bank, 2 valves per cylinder
- Fuel Delivery: Six twin-choke Weber carburetors
- Compression Ratio: 9.7:1
Transmission
- Type: 5-speed manual transaxle with a rear-mounted gearbox
Performance
- Top Speed: Over 160 mph (260 km/h)
- 0–60 mph: Approximately 6.0 seconds
Design and Construction
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Lightweight Aluminum Body:
The 275 GTB-C featured thinner gauge aluminum body panels for weight reduction, fabricated by Scaglietti with precision to enhance aerodynamics and performance on the track. -
Independent Rear Suspension:
A major advancement over its predecessor, the 250 GTO, the 275 GTB-C utilized fully independent rear suspension, offering superior handling and cornering stability. -
Improved Aerodynamics:
The long nose design of the GTB-C, introduced in 1965, reduced front-end lift and improved high-speed stability.
Racing Heritage
The 275 GTB-C made its mark in endurance racing with notable successes:
- 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans:
A 275 GTB-C finished 3rd overall and 1st in its class, showcasing the car's durability and performance. - Racing Prowess:
Designed to compete against Shelby Cobras and other GT-class cars, the 275 GTB-C was a formidable contender in FIA GT events during the mid-1960s.
Innovations
- Transaxle Layout:
The combination of the rear-mounted gearbox and differential improved weight distribution, a hallmark of Ferrari’s engineering advancements in the 275 series. - Dry-Sump Lubrication:
This system reduced the risk of oil starvation during hard cornering, a critical feature for endurance racing.
Legacy
- Rarity and Value:
Fewer than 12 275 GTB-C models were built, making them some of the most sought-after Ferraris. Auction prices for well-preserved examples often exceed $15 million. - Influence on Future Models:
The innovations in the 275 GTB-C influenced Ferrari’s approach to subsequent grand tourers and racing cars, including the Daytona (365 GTB/4).
Summary
The 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB-C Berlinetta represents a perfect fusion of competition-level engineering and timeless design. Its success on the track and its rarity make it one of Ferrari’s most revered and collectible racing cars, embodying the spirit of mid-century motorsport innovation and Italian craftsmanship.
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