THE FORGOTTEN FERRARI: Meet the 365 GTC/4
August 8, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
Written by Nicole Ellan James
2024 SCOTTSDALE FALL AUCTION – 1972 FERRARI 365 GTC/4 – NO RESERVE
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4, often dubbed the “Forgotten Ferrari,” frequently stands in the shadow of its more celebrated sibling, the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona.” With a production run spanning just two years and a mere 500 units crafted, the 365 GTC/4 remains elusive in Ferrari’s storied lineup.
When the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 made its debut in 1971, it faced a formidable challenge. Similar to the Daytona, the GTC/4 had to navigate the growing wave of stringent safety regulations, especially in the United States. These regulations signaled the end of the era, marking a significant shift in automotive design.
Styled by Filippo Sapino at Pininfarina, the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 showcased an elegant and understated design that seamlessly incorporated front and rear rubber bumpers into its sleek form. This integration marked a departure from the gleaming chrome bumpers of both the Daytona and the Dino, Ferrari’s other models of the era. Compared to the Daytona, the 365 GTC/4 offered a more practical alternative, featuring two small rear seats ideal for children or, when folded down, providing ample luggage space for long journeys.
Beneath its refined exterior, the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 bore a striking resemblance to the Ferrari Daytona. Both models utilized a variant of the same chassis, and the Daytona’s engine was adapted with modified double overhead cam heads. These modifications enabled the use of side-draft Weber carburetors, with the intake now routed between the camshafts instead of the V of the V12 engine. This engineering tweak allowed for a lower, more streamlined hood line.
In contrast to the Daytona, the 365 GTC/4 did not feature a rear transaxle. Instead, its transmission was mounted directly to the rear of the engine in a more conventional layout. Additionally, the engine was slightly detuned to emphasize torque over outright horsepower, offering a different balance of performance characteristics.
This 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 from The Alan Smith Collection will sell with No Reserve during Barrett-Jackson’s 2024 Scottsdale Fall Auction. The Ferrari is powered by a matching-numbers powertrain, which includes its 4.4-liter V12 engine and 5-speed manual transmission.
Originally finished in a distinctive Gold, the Ferrari’s current black-on-black color scheme offers a timeless appeal. Enhancing the overall aesthetic of the car is a set of classic chrome wire-spoke wheels.
Recent service updates, including a thorough tune-up, alignment and new tires, ensure this vehicle is as road-ready as it is visually stunning. With just over 30,000 miles, this Ferrari 365 GTC/4 has been preserved with care, retaining its original spirit while benefiting from necessary modern maintenance.
Barrett-Jackson bidders will have the opportunity to take this No Reserve GTC/4 home with them at the 2024 Scottsdale Fall Auction, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos, Oct. 10-13 at WestWorld.