1973 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 Coupe

Description

Like a well-made Italian suit, the Ferrari 365 GT4 creates an impression of discreet style thanks to the superbly elegant lines penned by Pininfarina.  First seen at the 1972 Paris Salon, the 365 GT4 was the latest 2+2 Ferrari in a lineage stretching back to the 250 GTE of the early Sixties and part of a tradition that continues to the present day with the magnificent GTC4 Lusso.  The conservative, handsome styling by master stylist Pininfarina broke away from the soft curves of previous models, with a low, chiselled nose featuring pop-up headlights and smooth, uncluttered lines.  Inside the GT4's cabin, the Ferrari exuded a luxurious ambience, with four leather-trimmed, very comfortable seats and a surprising amount of room in the rear compartment.  The heart of any Ferrari is the engine and in this case, it was an engineering masterpiece.  The 60-degree V12 (shared the F101AC type number with the 365 GTC/4) featured wet-sump lubrication, six Weber carburettors and developed 320 bhp at 7000 rpm.  With a five-speed manual gearbox, fully independent suspension and ventilated disc brakes behind the classic five-spoke light alloy wheels, the Ferrari was as technically sophisticated as one might expect from an Italian exotic car company of the era.  In production until 1976 when the 400 series was phased in, the 365 GT4 was produced in limited numbers - some 521 were built, few of which were delivered new to Australia - and unlike its successor, was only sold in manual configuration.  The basic shape of the 365 GT4 spanned 17 years and these lovely Gran Turismos represent phenomenal value for money when compared to the 365 GTB/4 Daytona or 365 GTC/4.  Indeed, the 365 GT4 is the most affordable model wearing the famous Prancing Horse to offer the ultimate combination of a V12 engine fed by Webers, traditional gated manual transmission and knock-off wheels.