Ferrari 330 GTS (1967)

Ferrari discontinued production of the 250 GT Lusso in 1964, leaving the firm without an intermediate model to occupy the gap between Ferrari's flagship Berlinetta's (the 275 GTB) and their grand four-seater Coupe's, the 330 GT. Launched during March 1966 at the Geneva Salon, the 330 GTC was an immediate success with customers and road testers alike, successfully filling the gap in Ferraris range. The 4-litre 330's were available in two alternative body styles - Coupe (GTC) or Spyder (GTS).

The 330 GTC frame was designated Tipo 592. These chassis' were outwardly very similar to those already used on Ferrari's 275 GTB being a traditional tubular steel chassis. Hydraulic disc brakes were fitted all-round along with fully independent suspension. Borrani's beautiful ten-hole cast alloy wheels were standard although spoked wheels from the same manufacturer were optionally available.

Engine-wise the GTC used Ferrari's twin cam four-litre Tipo 209/66 60° V12. Power was quoted by the factory as being 300bhp at 7000rpm with three twin-choke Weber 40 carburettors. The engine was matched by a five-speed transaxle. Performance was impressive with a car reaching 0-60 in under 6.5 seconds whilst top speed was in excess of 150mph.

The GTS was introduced during October 1966 when chassis 8899 GT was given its public debut at the Paris Salon. The 330 GTS could be described as a "series II 275 GTS" with a revised grille and bumperettes, as opposed to a one-piece full width front bumper. Of course, in addition to the visual changes the 330 benefitted from increased power and torque as well as character changing smooth driveline with the use of torque tube over an open prop shaft thus making in our opinion the 330 GTS a far superior car.

Only 99 330 GTS's were produced before Ferrari discontinued production in late '68 to make way for the new 4.4-litre 365 GTS. Electric windows were fitted as standard along with a full leather interior and comfortably padded rather than figure hugging bucket seats. Air conditioning was an optional extra.