December 20, 2017
Posted By : Barrett-Jackson
Written By : independent automotive journalist Tom Jensen

PRANCING PERFECTION: A pristine 1967 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2

PRANCING PERFECTION: A pristine 1967 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2

December 20, 2017
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by independent automotive journalist Tom Jensen

1967 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2

Of the 1,099 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2s produced, just 455 were Series II models – and this 1967 example, Lot #1393 at the upcoming Scottsdale Auction, is one of them.

There is a simple, but irrefutable, truism in the world of collector cars: If you’re looking for long-term value, buy the very best example of the model you covet.

Tastes change, trends change, what’s hot and what’s not changes, too. But what doesn’t ever change is that absolute top-tier cars invariably prove to be better choices than lesser examples of the same make and model.

1967 Ferrari 330 GT_Front3-4Yes, the best costs more. Always has, always will. Over time, though, getting the finest car is the prudent and fiscally sound decision. The finest quality pays off in the long run.

And that brings us to the current feature car that will roll across the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction block as [Lot #1393](http://). It’s a gorgeous 1967 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 that has been meticulously and correctly restored by skilled craftsmen trained in the nuances and intricacies of the Prancing Horse marque.

So impressive was the work on this Ferrari that it captured the “Best in Class Award” at the prestigious Cavallino Classic event in 2016. Organized by Cavallino magazine, a bi-monthly publication dedicated to the history of Ferrari, this is the show where the best of the best Ferraris are displayed and admired each year. Winning here is indeed a big deal.

This pristine Ferrari was styled by the legendary Italian designer Pininfarina, and it’s trimmed out in black paint over red leather, an extremely desirable color combination.

1967 Ferrari 330 GT_InteriorTo make a black car capable of winning awards at a Ferrari show, the bodywork has to be absolutely perfect, because black is the one automotive color that reveals any and all flaws. But the restoration on this Ferrari was stellar in every respect and will stand up to the closest scrutiny.

Now, for a bit of a history lesson: The Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 was introduced in January 1964 as a replacement for the 250 GTE 2+2, which had evolved into the 330 America, a car that looked identical to the 250 but sported a larger 4.0-liter V12 engine.

The formal coming-out party for the Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 was at the Brussels Salon in 1964, where it was shown publicly for the first time. The big news was under the hood, where Ferrari introduced a new engine, a 60-degree V12 known by the moniker Type 209.

Slightly longer than the engine it replaced, the Type 209 engine was a 60-degree, single-overhead-cam V12 that produced 300 horsepower from its 4.0 liters of engine displacement. Like all Ferrari V12s, this motor is smooth and powerful with a unique and glorious exhaust note signifying its presence with authority. Three Weber 40 DCZ/6 carburetors ensure plentiful distribution of the fuel/air mixture that keeps this powerful Ferrari grand tourer going strong.

1967 Ferrari 330 GT_EngineThe engine in this car is a matching-numbers unit, meaning it is original to this car and not a replacement block, as found in so many mid-1960s high-performance cars. This Ferrari also features books, an extensive log of receipts and a full, correct tool kit.

The original Series I Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 had four headlights, an arrangement not to everyone’s aesthetic tastes. But in mid-1965, Ferrari upgraded the 330 GT 2+2 to its Series II edition, the version that will cross the auction block at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale.

The Series II Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 received a host of significant upgrades: The headlights were changed to the more attractive layout of one to a side, the car got a new and better gearbox, and the old mechanical clutch gave way to a hydraulic one.

On the Series II models, the interior received numerous improvements, highlighted by a new center console and enhanced switchgear and ventilation outlets.

1967 Ferrari 330 GT_Rear3-4Taken as a whole, this series of improvements made an already dynamic grand touring machine even better. From an exterior design standpoint, the Series II 330 GT 2+2 now bore much more of a family resemblance to the Ferrari 275 GTS model – a good thing.

There were 1,099 330 GT 2+2s produced, not a huge production run to begin with, but of those, just 455 were Series II models. When you combine rarity and the upgrades in features, clearly the Series II model is extremely desirable, whether you are a collector or driver.

It looks great in the garage and feels amazing on the road. And it’s going to cross the block at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale, creating a great opportunity for some proud buyer to give it a wonderful new home.

For up-to-date information on this vehicle, click HERE.

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