Fantasy Junction

Description

1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona” Spyder
s/n 16903, Engine no. B2720
Black with Tan Leather

Originally shown at the Frankfurt motor show in 1969, the Daytona Spyder was almost instantly collectible. About 124 genuine Daytona Spyders were built, making them exceedingly rare finds, even when new. In spite of their rarity, or perhaps because of it, they found their way onto the silver screen on such memorable occasions as in “The Gumball Rally” (who can forget Raul Julia’s opinions on the topic of Italian driving: “What is behind you is not important!”) and “Miami Vice” (even if that was a replica). As a result of the collector car boom of the late 80’s, many coupes were decapitated to replicate this legendary car and consequently, a genuine Spyder is an even more remarkable find today. They are certainly among the most coveted road-going Ferraris ever built and this car is an exceptional opportunity to acquire one.

Produced in April of 1973, this particular car is a late production, spectacular documented original low mileage example that remains in excellent condition. The car is a US-specification model fitted with air conditioning, and aside from regular maintenance and a repaint by Bill de Carr, the car is original. s/n 16903 was sold new through Bill Harrah’s Modern Classic Motors in Reno, Nevada, and historical records on file confirm the steady progression of its mileage to the current 7,500 miles. It was owned for many years by Mel Blanc (perhaps better known as the voice for many characters from Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck to Barney Rubble), and has been in Southern California under the care of the same mechanic for the last approximately 18 years. The previous owner purchased the car approximately eleven years ago with 3,500 miles on it and has had the car serviced annually, as well as fitted a correct new Ansa exhaust system, and new top fabric. s/n 16903 has been shown several times and it has always won Platinum. The car comes with complete tools, books with leather pouch (including a “chassis service manual abstract” as supplied with US cars), spare factory bulb pack, jack, and a paperwork file of historical records, recent invoices FCA judging sheets confirming platinum results, articles discussing the car winning Best In Class awards, as well as Ferrari Classishe certification paperwork, and an extra set of correct Campagnolo alloy wheels, which wear the tires with which the car was originally delivered when new.

The car is in excellent cosmetic condition, with high quality paint over straight panels. The gaps are consistent and tight throughout, while the paint itself is extremely nice, with just a handful of minor blemishes but no other appreciable wear. The chrome is similarly nice, without pitting or other deterioration apparent. The glass, lights and lenses are excellent as well, including the four Cibié headlamps. The top is new and excellent (including the rear window), as is the tonneau cover. The Borrani wire wheels are spotless.

The interior is original and has been wonderfully preserved. The leather remains supple and uncracked, including the frequently worn area of the driver`s seat. The carpets are in excellent condition throughout, as is the dashboard, which is free from shrinkage, water marks, and significant fading. A period Becker Mexico radio is fitted and working, as is air conditioning, which blows cold.

The engine compartment, trunk, and underside are all spectacular, and speak to the quality of this example. Where other examples are merely clean or presentable, this car is spectacular. The engine is spotless and highly original. There are no signs of any fluid leaks, and all components bear the correct stencils and decals, right down to the shocks that hold the hood open. All wiring and hoses appear as new, and all components are immaculately clean. The original Magnetti Marelli ignition boxes are present, and all finishes, including the cadmium plating, are unmarked. The trunk is equally lovely, with correctly fitting carpet and trunk lid lining, tools, books, jack, and detailed Borrani wire spare. Even beneath the floor of the trunk is spotless. The underside is similarly nice, with correct plating and finishes on all components, and minimal signs of leakage. The exhaust system is new, while the suspension, brakes, transaxle, and engine are all beautiful.

As would be expected of a car of this caliber, s/n 16903 runs and drives exceptionally well. The car starts easily with an operational cold start circuit, and revs freely with ample power. The compression when recently tested yielded figures between 180-190 lbs. on all twelve cylinders. The suspension and steering mechanism have the cohesive feel of a never disassembled car. The door shut is positive and crisp, and the seats have an authentic, undisturbed feel. The transaxle is smooth, with excellent synchros up and down, including 2nd gear, even when cold.

This is an opportunity to acquire a fantastic example of this important car. As an almost entirely undisturbed, exceptionally low mileage and well maintained example, this car represents something above and beyond what even a freshly restored car is able to offer. Daytona Spyders are very rare, and are certainly among the most coveted and usable road-going Ferraris ever built. This car with its known history, verifiable mileage, spectacular award-winning condition and level of preparation, we feel is among the finest examples extant, likely the very best on the marketplace today, and is sure to make its new owner proud to be its steward.

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