A Legacy of Luxury: The Ferrari 365 GT 2+2
As Ferrari transitioned into the 1960s, it was a brand on the rise, both on the racetrack and in the luxury car market.
With major victories in Formula 1 and Le Mans, Ferrari’s credibility soared, and the demand for its road cars grew exponentially. In 1959, Ferrari introduced the 250 GT 2+2, marking its first foray into four-seat grand touring cars with a front-mounted V12 engine. The thrill of Ferrari performance was married with a touch of practicality, making it a popular choice among the brand's booming customer base. Its success helped pave the way for the brand's expansion in the decade that followed.
Building on this momentum, Ferrari launched the 330 GT 2+2 in 1964, which featured a 4.0-litre V12 engine, a more powerful upgrade from its predecessor. With a five-speed gearbox, optional power steering and air conditioning, the 330 GT 2+2 catered to the American market and became a top seller, with over 1,000 units produced. However, by 1967, Ferrari recognised the need for a fresh design that could keep up with evolving tastes and technology.
Enter the Ferrari 365 GT 2+2, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1967. This grand tourer was equipped with a 4.4-litre V12 delivering 320 horsepower and was the first Ferrari GT 2+2 to feature all-independent suspension, which significantly improved ride comfort. Designed as a spiritual successor to the luxurious 500 Superfast, the 365 GT 2+2 came standard with power steering, servo-assisted brakes, and air conditioning, enhancing its appeal as a high-performance luxury vehicle. With a spacious interior, ample luggage space, and advanced hydro-pneumatic self-levelling rear suspension, it struck the perfect balance between comfort and the exhilarating Ferrari driving experience many had become accustomed to, reaching 100 km/h in just over seven seconds and topping out at 246 km/h.
The example, offered by DK Engineering in a Carhuna auction, is a flawless 1970 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 with a storied history. Originally ordered by Gerald Thomas, the renowned British film director of the "Carry On" series, this vehicle was one of only 52 UK right-hand-drive models. It came in the striking Oro Nashrullah with a Pelle Tobacco interior and factory-fitted Campagnolo wheels. Over the years, it has been meticulously maintained, with a detailed history documented through original records, service files, and even the tool roll and Ferrari leather wallet.
This Ferrari has seen several dedicated owners who each took great care in preserving its condition. After an initial repaint to dark green by its second owner, William Shand Kydd, the car eventually made its way to the United States, where it was repainted again in Rosso with a Pelle Crema interior. It returned to the UK in 1990, continuing its legacy of maintenance and careful use under various owners. The current custodian has enjoyed the car for 17 years, showing it at events and keeping it in pristine condition with the help of DK Engineering.
Most recently, the car underwent a full re-chrome and exterior body seal replacement in 2022, with its last service in June 2024. Now showing 83,277 miles, this Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 is ready for a new chapter. Don’t miss your chance to own this exceptional example when it goes live on Carhuna on November 13th, concluding on November 20th.
