They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to Scaglietti’s 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta, it’s hard to deny its stunning allure. This masterpiece from Maranello is not just a car; it represents an era of excellence and passion that Ferrari has always been known for.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
In the late 1960s, Ferrari faced tough competition from Lamborghini’s Miura. The question was whether to reinvent themselves with mid-engined supercars or stick to what they did best – building the finest 12-cylinder, front-engined grand touring cars. Ferrari chose the latter, and thus, the 365 GTB/4 Daytona was born in 1968.
Powered by a 4.4-litre V-12 engine producing a staggering 352 horsepower, this car was a beast on the road. With a top speed of 280 km/h, it held the title of one of the fastest production automobiles of its time. Renowned Ferrari driver and automotive journalist, Paul Frère, even claimed to have hit 176 mph on the autostrada in 1969. But it wasn’t just the speed that mesmerized enthusiasts; it was the symphony created by its engine. As Frère aptly put it, “It’s the engine that makes the music,” and indeed, it played the finest music of all, especially in a well-equipped car with luxurious amenities.
A Story of Evolution
The 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta, with chassis number 16437, was built as a late-specification model. Finished in Rosso Chiaro Ferrari over a Pelle Nera interior, it exuded a classic and timeless elegance. Originally imported to Spain, it made its debut at the 1973 Barcelona Motor Show, alongside other iconic Ferraris of the time.
Unfortunately, little is known about its early history, but it remained in Spain throughout the 1990s. The car caught the attention of enthusiasts and appeared on the cover of the Spanish classic car magazine Motor Clásico in 1993. It was evident that this beauty had captured the hearts of many.
A Timeless Journey
In 2000, the 365 GTB/4 Daytona found a new home in France, where it joined the collection of a well-known Ferrari enthusiast. Throughout his ownership, the car was cherished and well-maintained, as evidenced by the meticulous invoices available for perusal.
In 2018, the current owner acquired this marvel and immediately embarked on a restoration journey to bring the car back to its former glory. The process included a full repaint in the original Rosso Chiaro, upholstery work on the interior, and the replacement of worn-out rubber components. With new Michelin XWX tires, fresh spark plugs, and new engine mounts, the car was rejuvenated, and invoices totaling approximately €60,000 stand as a testament to the owner’s dedication.
MMSPLAY – Your Destination for Automotive Wonders
At MMSPLAY, we believe that true automotive magic comes from the stories behind the machines. The 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta is a prime example of a car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts for decades. Its timeless design, powerful engine, and rich history make it an icon worth cherishing.
To explore more automotive wonders and experience the allure of iconic brands like Ferrari, visit us at MMSPLAY. Discover the stories that make these machines so much more than just cars.