Fantasy Junction

Description

1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona”
s/n 16701, Engine no. B2554
Azzuro with Black Leather

As the last of the classic front-engined V12 flagship Ferraris, the 365GTB/4 “Daytona” needs little introduction. Mechanically sophisticated with its 4.4 litre quad cam V12, rear mounted 5-speed transaxle, and fully independent suspension, the cars are aggressive and beautiful. Quite simply, the Daytona is one of the most evocative and collectible Ferraris ever produced, one that captures the essence of the classic Ferrari experience, while also supplying performance that is exciting, even by today’s standards.

With more Daytonas being restored each year, exceptionally well kept, exceedingly original examples continue to become fewer and further between. Interestingly, we have observed a movement trend among our discerning Ferrari clientele towards low mileage, unrestored, highly original cars. This inverse supply and demand dynamic leads us to believe that the preservation segment of the Ferrari market may very well be where the most investment opportunity exists.

Thus, Fantasy Junction is excited to offer this very late production US market Ferrari Daytona, s/n 16701, a 17,356 mile largely original example complete with a full manual pack and tools, and one of just four examples listed in the Daytona Registry to have been originally finished in Azzuro with black leather interior.

The car presents exceptionally well, especially when considering its age and originality. The paint, which was redone once in the original delivery color of Azzuro, is in excellent order with only the normal minor flex marks near the headlight opening panels. The brightwork, which is thought original, is in very good condition, as are the emblems, lenses, and window glass. The car sits on original 7 ½” Cromodora wheels shod with 70 series tires.

The interior also speaks to the originality of the car. The original “mouse hair” dash material remains, as does the headliner, carpet, seat upholstry, inner door panels, and console. All the switchgear and gauges are original, as well as the steering wheel. This Daytona boasts the correct smell of Connolly leather, one of the unique features of an unrestored car. Even the Original Becker Mexico AM/FM cassette unit remains.

The engine bay also stresses originality, while still presenting well. The car has required minimal restorative or mechanical works, and the original finishes applied to the engine bay components are still in place. Also present are the correct Dinoplex ignition boxes, window washer bag, fuse box covers, exhaust heat shields, battery hold down, and Magneti Marelli badged correct vintage battery. Even present is the often missing US model emissions equipment (smog pump), which is almost impossible to locate as it is also coveted by big block Corvette concours enthusiasts.

Recent mechanical works included new suspension rubber bushings and rebuilt shocks on all four corners. The underside is exceedingly solid, and is entirely free of corrosion. While not freshly detailed, it is representative of a well looked after 17,000 car, and is mechanically sound.

The driving experience of this Daytona is truly superior. The door shut is crisp and solid, and the car starts easily, with beautiful carburetion responsive to throttle input. The steering is also responsive, and seemingly lighter than other Daytonas. The brake and clutch operation is fluid, and the transaxle has wonderful synchros, particularly in second gear, both warm and cold. The experienced Daytona driver will be hard pressed to contain his or her enjoyment behind the wheel, as this car has a wonderfully concise, coherent feeling on the road.

s/n 16701 is complete with its full tool bag containing tools, jack, and leather book pouch containing the appropriate manuals, US supplement, and radio card.

The single repaint aside, we cannot stress enough the wonderfully preserved nature of the 365 GTB/4. Equally appropriate for concours showing where it will stand out among a crowd of restored car, or for high speed touring on the open road, the next custodian of this example will have secured not only an irreplaceable time-warp automobile, but an intelligent investment as well.

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.

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