When we think of Ferraris, images of Testarossas, Formula 1 racers and sleek, mid-engined Pininfarina creations instantly spring to mind. Too often we forget about the attractive grand tourers from the 1960s, cars which helped cement Ferrari's image as a manufacturer of top notch sporting vehicles amongst the monied elite. This 330 GT is precisely one of those vehicles. Powered by the famed Colombo V12 engine, the 330 GT replaced the 250 GT/E in the lineup, and added such refinements as an overdrive manual gearbox and dual circuit four-wheel disc brakes. The earlier models, such as this one, had a unique front clip, with quad headlamps, which would be replaced with dual lights in 1965.
This 330 GT for sale in California was restored by its previous owner and is a fine example of a thoroughbred geared more for the boulevard than the race circuit.
1964 Ferrari 330 GT
1964 Ferrari 330 GT Coupe, restored inside and out. Low miles, rare collectible: this classic Ferrari is a wonderful example of the Ferrari 330 GT in red with black leather. Restoration by previous owner included complete rebuild of engine and transmission. The 12 cylinder classic Ferrari's are becoming a prized investment due to appreciating values in the worldwide marketplace. The classic Ferrari 330 coupes were built to exacting specifications including: 300bhp, 3,967 cc overhead camshaft alloy block and head V12 engine, four-speed gearbox with overdrive, independent front suspension with upper and lower A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bar, solid rear axle with parallel trailing arms and semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.
Wheelbase: 104.2" Introduced in 1964, the 330 GT succeeded the 250 GTE, which proved the soundness of Ferrari's move into the expanding high performance, four- seater market. The 330 GT 2+2 featured a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and a somewhat higher roof line than its predecessor along with improved passenger accommodations. Styled by Tom Tjaarda, the 330 GT 2+2 initially featured a slightly canted four- headlight treatment before front-end styling reverted to a more traditional two- headlight design in 1965. The 330 GT with it's four seat touring capability was an instant hit with consumers as it offered the same level of classic Ferrari performance with expanded seating. It was powered by the Tipo 209 Colombo V12 engine, enlarged to four liters, producing 300 brake horsepower. Refinements included Koni adjustable dampers, coil spring-assisted rear leaf springs, and separate front and rear braking circuits, while power steering and air conditioning were optional. All told, the 330 GT 2+2 was capable of luxurious, stylish high speed travel at speeds approaching 240 kilometers per hour. Very few of these fine cars remain due to the small production run (just 1,080 manufactured between 1963 and 1967).
Four seat V12s from the 1960s can be some of the most affordable ways into a Ferrari from this period, but even these models are increasing in value. A 330 GT in this kind of condition can usually be found in the realm of $80,000 to $130,000, so this car is priced a little bit high. Depending on the quality of the restoration and provenance of this particular vehicle, it might be worth it, but from the looks of it, this 330 GT appears to be valued a bit on the high side.
-Paul