1968 Ferrari 365

Defining the pinnacle of Ferraris history is no easy task but the period from 1958 to 1968 stands out as a particularly notable era. During this decade Scuderia Ferrari achieved remarkable success winning three Formula 1 World Drivers Championships and two Constructors titles. At Le Mans Ferrari cars claimed an impressive seven victories in eight years. Simultaneously the companys road car production grew substantially from 183 cars in 1958 to approximately 729 by 1968.A key factor in Ferraris growth throughout the 1960s was the introduction of a series of four-seat grand touring cars with front-mounted V-12 engines. The first of these models was the 250 GT 2+2 launched in 1959. It featured the same 3.0-liter V-12 engine and 96.5-inch wheelbase as the two-seat 250 GT but with a 12-inch extended body and a repositioned drivers seat. The relocation of the fuel tank and a modest increase in weight ensured that the driving experience remained exceptional. With 957 units sold it surpassed the 250 GT Coup Pinin Farina which had previously been Ferraris most produced model.In 1963 Ferrari introduced the 330 America which debuted with a new 4.0-liter Tipo 209 engine providing an increase of around 60 horsepower to reach 300 horsepower. This engine was later featured in the 1964 330 GT 2+2. The 330 GT 2+2 with its revised Pininfarina design included a five-speed gearbox and offered optional power steering and air conditioning catering to the American market. The model proved popular with 1087 units produced between 1964 and 1967.By 1967 the 330 GT 2+2 was considered outdated both technically and stylistically. Ferrari responded with the introduction of the 365 GT 2+2 at the Paris Motor Show. This model came with a new 4.4-liter Tipo 245 V-12 engine delivering 320 horsepower and was the first Ferrari GT 2+2 to feature all-independent suspension. As a spiritual successor to the 500 Superfast the 365 GT 2+2 came generously equipped with standard power steering servo-assisted brakes and air conditioning. It boasted a spacious interior and ample luggage space with a hydro-pneumatic self-leveling rear suspension for added comfort. Despite its focus on luxury the 365 GT 2+2 offered impressive performance reaching 100 km/h in just over seven seconds and a top speed of 246 km/h. Its responsive engine four-wheel ventilated disc brakes and excellent steering ensured it remained a drivers car at heart.This Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 chassis 11507 was first delivered on July 11 1968 to Giuseppe Gambino of Palermo Sicily and was originally finished in Blu Sera with Beige Connolly Leather. The car stayed in Italy until 1982 when it was exported to California by a Milan-based dealer. It was later advertised in the Ferrari Market Letter as a Red with Tan interior multiple first place winner and $125000 Ground-Up Restoration. In 2003 it earned a Platinum award at the 40th Annual Ferrari Club of America event in Sebring Florida. By 2014 the car had moved to Toronto Canada joining the collection of Michael Louli an experienced Ferrari Challenge driver and car collector. The current owner acquired the car in 2021.While it is an older restoration the car has been meticulously preserved over the years. The paintwork remains exceptional and the brightwork is both sharp and brilliant and the car rides on bright Borrani wire wheels with Pirelli 215/70/R15 tires. . The distinctive quad-tip exhaust is remarkably clean and prominent while delivering a beautiful tone from the robust V12 engine. To further preserve the vehicle it was fitted with a clear protective bra and clear headlight covers another testament to the care it has received throughout the course of ownership. The commitment is evident today with a reproduction of the original Italian license plate still mounted on the rear a lasting tribute to its early ownership.The interior of this 365 GT 2+2 while showing some minor signs of age and use over the years continues to exude its classic charm. The leather upholstery has been beautifully restored the lovely wood dashboard is in excellent condition and features a Becker Grand Prix AM/FM radio. This car also features powered front vent windows and a power antenna. The engine bay is remarkably clean and tidy reflecting its ongoing maintenance and care. Included with the car is a Marcel Massini report reproduction Italian owners manual original Italian parts catalog a car cover and scores of original wear items such as belts hoses fuses etc. that were saved as parts were renewed.The 2+2 presented here has participated in the Copperstate 1000 Rally five times The New England 1000 as well as completing the Pebble Beach Motoring Classic from Seattle to Pebble Beach highlighting the joy and excitement it delivers to its drivers. Each caretaker has meticulously maintained this 1968 365 GT 2+2 contributing to its remarkable current condition. With a classic color combination gorgeous Pininfarina lines and a powerful V-12 under the hood chassis number 11507 offers a definitive Ferrari experience fully befitting Road & Tracks Queen Mother of Ferraris declaration. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7774-1968-ferrari-365-gt-22/