Coys / Blenheim Palace - 15/07/2017 / 1966 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 / Lot 156

1966 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 The 330 GT 2+2 was launched at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1964 as an intended replacement for the successful 250 GTE. It was powered by the 209 engine previously used in the 400 Superamerica, which with various improvements but slight detuning now yielded around 330bhp. The wheelbase was about two inches longer than that of the 250, and Koni adjustable shock absorbers were fitted as standard. The bodywork of the 330 was altogether ‘sweeter’ and more essential than that of its predecessor, and had a particularly attractive sharpness of line. The car was also spacious and comfortable, living up well to its ‘GT’ denomination. Paul Frere, the noted Belgian racing driver and automotive journalist, road tested a 2+2 late in 1966. He came away suitably impressed: “In handling, this car is exactly like all Ferraris which I have driven before … It is close to being as neutral as one could want… But the most impressive feature of the handling of the 330 is the solidness with which it changes direction, particularly in s-bends, where it tracks with about the same precision as a modern race car.” This lovely example that left the Maranello factory in December of 1966 and is presented in stunning black with tan hide interior. The car was owned and driven by a number of various keepers in the United States and America before being imported and sold in the United Kingdom in the summer of 2015, where is was purchased by the current vendor. Since arrival in the United Kingdom the vendor has completed some important restoration and upgrades with the help of Marque specialist GTO Engineering, invoices on file show circa £22,000 having been spent since 2015, with some £18,000 of that with the previously mentioned specialist. Work includes improved and rebuilt steering column, new exhaust pipes and silencers, clutch master cylinder, newly fashioned column switch and indicator stalk. Interior upholstery was also done at this time with new door panels and cleaning of leather seats and trim. The car is offered on a UK V5 registration, with a current MoT valid until August 2017 and a dating letter from Ferrari Classiche department in Maranello. The vendor has informed us that the well suited number plate ’33 OF’ is to be included in the sale of the Ferrari. These iconic Italian sports cars are much sought after, and this 2+2 is no exception. A left hand drive example, now UK registered with recent work carried out by a well respected Marque specialist. These Ferraris were the envy of many in the 1960s, and remain so to this day. Not to be missed.