Ferrari 275 GTB (1965)

By the mid-1960s it seemed Ferrari could do no wrong, winning on all fronts from sports car racing to Grands Prix and producing the most beautiful cars in the world. Ferrari's dual-purpose cars seemed unstoppable combining race-winning performance with film star good looks. As the legendary 250 GT LWB "Tour de France" gave way to the marvelous 250 GT SWB Berlinetta - and led ultimately to the awe-inspiring 250 GTO in 1962. Introduced at the 1964 Paris Auto Show, the new 275 GTB gave Ferrari a chance to incorporate all the best characteristics of this fabled bloodline. Many consider the resulting car to be the finest production Ferrari ever built, combining the thoroughbred mechanical pedigree of its road racing forebears with sufficient creature comforts to make the 275 GTB a superlative grand touring automobile.

Under the skin, the 275 GTB incorporated the best Ferrari chassis design, starting with the oval section tube backbone chassis. Independent suspension was fitted all around for the first time on a road-going Ferrari, and a 5-speed gearbox was also included in the specification. The transmission was mounted at the rear of the car for improved weight distribution in a transaxle. Now enlarged to 3.3 litres, the 60-degree V12 engine remained the familiar Colombo type producing 280bhp at 7,600rpm. A higher, claimed 300bhp, state of tune was available by employing six Weber carburettors instead of the standard three. In addition, customers purchasing a 275 GTB for road use could also specify aluminium coachwork.

This coachwork was all new too, a stunning Pininfarina design that evoked the graceful lines of the legendary 250 GTO. A long bonnet combined with a Kamm-tail rear body created a striking profile, while vents in the front wings gave the car a muscular edge. Vents in the sail panels added to the effect and paid tribute to the 250 GT 'Tour de France' Berlinettas. A smoothly integrated rear spoiler helped give the car a strong visual identity. Although the 275 GTB was a car of many firsts, it was also the last car that could be considered a true coach built road/race Berlinetta in the great Ferrari tradition. Although most lived their lives on the streets, many led a dual life, winning on road courses and hill climbs on the weekend, while providing stylish and exciting transportation during the week.