This 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 original European delivery specification car was delivered to its first owner in Bologna, Italy and was imported into the U.S. in the late 1970s.
When Ferrari introduced the 365 GTB/4 Daytona at the 1968 Paris Motor Show, enthusiasts were immediately struck by the dramatic styling courtesy of Pininfarina's Leonardo Fioravanti. One of the most notable features of his design was a full-width Plexiglas cover that ran from headlamp to headlamp. Attractive as it was, this configuration was not allowed in the U.S. for safety reasons. In order to conform the model for this primary market, Ferrari redesigned the fascia to exchange the Plexiglas cover with pop-up headlamps. Accounting for approximately 400 of the earliest Daytonas the plexinose examples have become particularly prized for their rarity and more faithful realization of the original design.
The car is powered by a 4.4-liter V12 engine fitted with six Weber carburetors coupled to a 5-speed transaxle and equipped with 4-wheel assisted disc brakes and fully independent double wishbone suspension with coil springs.
Design and Features
- Designer: Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina.
- Body Style: 2-door Berlinetta (coupe).
- Chassis: Steel body with an aluminum bonnet and boot lid, mounted on a tubular steel frame.
- Interior: Luxurious and sporty, featuring leather seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a comprehensive instrument panel.
Performance
- Engine: 4.4-liter (4390 cc) V12 engine.
- Power Output: Approximately 352 horsepower at 7,500 rpm.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission.
- Top Speed: Around 174 mph (280 km/h).
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in about 5.4 seconds.
- Suspension: Independent suspension with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers on all four wheels.
Production and Legacy
- Production Years: 1968-1973.
- Total Units Produced: Approximately 1,284 units, including both Berlinetta and Spider versions.
- Price: Among the most expensive and exclusive cars of its time.
Significance
- Cultural Impact: The Ferrari Daytona gained iconic status due to its appearances in popular media, including films and TV shows.
- Racing Heritage: Although primarily a road car, the Daytona also saw success on the track, including a class win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
- Design Excellence: The Daytona's design, characterized by long, sleek lines and an aggressive stance, is often regarded as one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever made.
Challenges
- Competition: The Daytona faced stiff competition from other high-performance sports cars of the era, such as the Lamborghini Miura.
- Market Changes: The 1970s oil crisis and shifting market demands affected the production and sales of high-performance cars.
Notable Features
- Pop-Up Headlights: A distinctive feature of the Daytona, adding to its sleek and aggressive look.
- Spacious Trunk: For a high-performance sports car, the Daytona offered a surprisingly practical trunk space.
- Comfort: Despite its performance capabilities, the Daytona was known for being relatively comfortable for long-distance driving.
You may purchase a print of the 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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