Fantasy Junction

Description

1967 Ferrari 330 GTC
s/n 9563, engine no. 9563
Silver with Red Leather Interior

Widely regarded to be one of the best driving and most usable classic Ferraris, the 330GTC is highly sought after today. These cars are a pleasure to drive, even in today’s traffic, because of the wide torque band provided by the 4 litre V-12 and the tractability and balance that result from the combination of the transaxle and torque tube. The cars perfectly tread the line between the classic Ferrari essence and more modern technical features such as rear-mounted 5-speed gearbox, disc brakes and independent suspension all around, and genuinely muscular powerplants. Air conditioning was also optionally available for the first time. Because of its elegant understated lines and classic Ferrari layout, the 330 GTC has finally emerged from years of under-appreciation. Just 600 330 GTC were constructed between 1966 and 1968. While many GTC owners have large collections of important Ferraris, their GTC will often be the choice car for driving events.

This particular example was sold new via Société Anonyme pour la Vente des Automobiles Ferrari in Geneva, Switzerland. Its warranty card was issued on the 21st of March 1967 and the car’s original color combination was an unsual Avorio (ivory) with red leather interior. The car was imported to the United States in the 1970s and although it is an early production serial number likely completed in 1966, the car is titled as a 1967. By 1979, the car was showing 25,000 miles, and by 1988, the car had an indicated 63,800 miles when it was offered for sale as a running and driving example that would make an ideal restoration candidate.

A long term owner purchased the car in 1988, keeping the car until 2013. This owner is an avid vintage racer, running many Formula 1 race cars. During this ownership period, the car received significant work, including rebuilt engine and transaxle, as well as cosmetic restoration. In the mid 1990s, an inattentive driver ran a light and hit the front right corner of the car, which necessitated replacing the headlight bucket and grille surround. Since the car was receiving paintwork, a comprehensive restoration was undertaken, which was completed in the early 2000s. Included in this was a complete repaint in the car’s curent silver livery. The repair included the replacement of the headlight bucket and grille surround. The chrome was renewed and the rubber weatherstripping also replaced at that time. During the restoration, the engine was rebuilt to include new pistons, bearings, valves, and guides. The carburetors were also rebuilt and the clutch and motor mounts replaced as well. The transaxle was rebuilt during this period, and in 2001, the tie rod ends and ball joints were replaced. In 2012 and 2013, the car saw further additional work, including new Michelin XWX tires and rebuilt Koni shock absorbers. The paint was also freshened including repainting the trunk lid and one front fender. This work was overseen by Phil Reilly and Co. The mechanical fuel pump was also rebuilt by Patrick Ottis.

The car makes a strong impression cosmetically. The paint is glossy and was done to very good standards. The clearcoat is excellent with high gloss although there is some subtle unevenness in the base coat on the left rear fender that is visible in certain light. The paint is in excellent shape overall, with a handful of chips on the front end from road use. The panels are straight and free of any evidence of corrosion. The car sits on beautiful Borrani wire wheels wearing Michelin XWX tires, which were replaced in 2013. The chrome varies from good to excellent. The bumpers are excellent, as are the window frames, while smaller items such as the fender vents and rear badge show some thinning to the finish. The glass is excellent throughout other than a bit of delamination at the bottom of the rear windscreen. The lights are in excellent shape as well.

The interior is stunning with very fresh red leather upholstery. The leather is virtually unmarked, as are the door panels. The carpets are excellet as well, as is the dashboard, which has excellent wood. The steering wheel is excellent as well and appears freshly restored, although there are some cracks in the horn button. The switches and instruments are correct in appearance and in excellent condition throughout. The headliner is correct and excellent as well, with working dome lights. All instruments, including the clock, function as well, although the fuel gauge reads innaccurately.

The engine compartment is detailed to high level driver standards, being very clean and generally correct in appearance. On balance, the finishes and components are correct, including the wrinkle finish to the valve covers, and other paint finishes to areas such as the airbox, engine, and inner fenders. The factory airbox is present with correct knurled keepers. A January 2014 inspection by Ferrari Club of America concours judge Patrick Ottis reveals a few minor incorrect items such as hose clamps, windscreen washer bag, spark plug connectors, and one fuel hose. The trunk is attractively presented with correct carpet in excellent condition. The spare is an alloy which is present under the trunk floor.

The car runs and drives very well. The motor starts easily and is well-tuned, and a January 2014 compression check performed by Patrick Ottis showed compression of 160 to 185 pounds on all twelve cylinders. The transaxle is excellent, with great synchromesh, including second gear from cold. The brakes work as they should, with good linear pedal feel and effectiveness. The suspension, steering, and chassis are harmonious and have correct effort and freeplay. The overall experience is a complete pleasure, reminding why GTCs are so highly regarded and sought after for enthusiasts seeking to enjoy their cars.

Long a favorite among Ferrari connoisseurs who appreciate their excellent road manners and elegant styling, the secret around the 330 and 365 GTC is out, with a recent explosion in values. After years in the shadow of some of their less understated brethren, GTCs are now appreciated for their mechanical sophistication, performance, elegance, and rarity. Just 600 examples were built and this is a high level driver example that would make an ideal car to drive and enjoy. A matching-numbers car, this GTC was inspected by Patrick Ottis in January 2014 and found to be an excellent driving example with good compression, virtually no mechanical needs, and few minor incorrect aspects.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608