Ferrari 275 GTS (1965)

The 275 GTS was launched alongside the 275 GTB in October 1964 at the Paris Salon, the GTS was an overdue replacement for Ferrari's Series II 250 GT PF Cabriolet that had ceased production back in 1962. Producing 280bhp, the GTS was still a formidable performer. With its top speed of 147mph and 0-60 requiring just 6.6 seconds, little else could match it as a great all-rounder due to its excellent chassis shared with the GTB, independent suspension all round, a silky smooth yet powerful and torquey 3.3 Litre V12, disc brakes all round and of course a 5-speed transaxle to match. These attributes, especially the 5-speed gearbox, make a 275 GTS a delight to own and enjoy in the modern environment.

Of the 200 275 GTS built by Ferrari, only 14 examples were originally built in right hand drive configuration, including the example presented here. Delivered new to Mr. G.D. Claridge of Hertfordshire, the was delivered to him in July of 1965 finished in Blu paintwork over a matching Pelle Blu leather interior with Borrani wire wheels.

The car would only remain with Mr. Claridge until January of 1967, when it was sold to Mr. R.G. Cobden who was living in London. Records show that he part exchanged a very-early Jaguar E-Type for this 275 GTS. Passing then to Mr. R.J. Thornhill of Derbyshire, it remained in his ownership until the mid-1980s. Interestingly, during his ownership the car was picutred in Godfrey Eaton’s well known book, “The Complete Ferrari”, which was published in 1985.

In the early 1990s, the car was shipped to Maranello Concessionaires who carried out a complete restoration. Afterwards, the car was owned by the Honourable Michael Pearson (Lord Cowdray), as well as Peter Lloyd, an avid collector and active member of he Ferrari Owners Club. The car also had a short stint in the United States where it was displayed at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, California.

Since 2006, the 275 GTS’ maintenance has been entrusted to marque specialist Bob Houghton who carried out a complete engine rebuild in 2008. Numerous invoices for his work are on file, with the latest being an annual service in February 2018 which also included the fitment of four new tyres. In 2010, car attained Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming that it retains its original chassis, engine, gearbox, and bodywork. More recently, the interior has been retrimmed in red leather, lending a more sophisticated and characterful appearance to the car.

Owned and enjoyed in the U.K. from new, a RHD 275 GTS is a very rare proposition and a car that should not be overlooked. Brilliant to drive and enjoy, it attracted lots of attention at Salon Prive in 2021, where it completed the tour and was voted Most Elegant car. Presented in attractive colours with Classiche certification to its name, it would be a fitting addition to any collection.

This 275 GTS is presently available for inspection at our facilities just outside of London.