1972 Ferrari 365 – Exterior and Interior – Retro Classics Stuttgart 2022
In 1972, Ferrari offered a V12 grand tourer that combined Daytona performance with genuine everyday usability. The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 shared its engine architecture with the legendary 365 GTB/4, yet delivered it in a quieter, more refined 2+2 format. It remains one of the most understated front-engined Ferraris of the era.
Technical Details:
The 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 was powered by a front-mounted 4,390 cc Colombo V12 engine. The “365” designation refers to the approximate displacement per cylinder, multiplied across twelve cylinders. The engine featured a 60-degree V configuration, dual overhead camshafts per bank, and six twin-choke Weber carburetors.
Unlike the 365 GTB/4 “Daytona,” the GTC/4 used a slightly lower compression ratio and different carburetor setup, resulting in a more touring-oriented output of approximately 340 PS (around 250 kW) at about 6,200 rpm. Torque delivery was smoother and better suited to long-distance driving rather than outright racing performance.
Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox, integrated into a rear-mounted transaxle unit. This configuration improved weight distribution, contributing to balanced handling characteristics. The chassis consisted of a tubular steel frame derived from the Daytona platform, paired with fully independent suspension using wishbones and coil springs at all four corners. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted front and rear.
Top speed was approximately 260 km/h, placing the 365 GTC/4 firmly among the fastest four-seat grand tourers of its time.
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Model Name: Ferrari 365 GTC/4
- Year of Manufacturing: 1971–1972
Design:
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 was designed by Pininfarina and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. Visually, it differs noticeably from the more aggressive Daytona. The front end features a wide, black grille panel integrating headlamps behind clear covers, giving the car a cleaner and more modern appearance for the early 1970s.
The proportions reflect its 2+2 configuration: a long hood housing the V12, a slightly extended cabin area, and a more practical rear section. Subtle chrome trim and restrained detailing reinforce its grand touring identity rather than overt sportiness.
At the rear, twin circular taillights on each side echo Ferrari’s design language of the period. The side profile is elegant and fluid, with minimal ornamentation.
Inside, the 365 GTC/4 offers a more luxurious cabin than the Daytona. Leather upholstery, extensive instrumentation, and a center console with auxiliary gauges reflect its dual nature as both performance car and long-distance cruiser. The rear seats are suitable for shorter journeys, making the car genuinely usable as a four-seater—an important distinction within Ferrari’s lineup at the time.
Historical Significance:
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 occupied a strategic position in Ferrari’s early 1970s range. Introduced in 1971, it was designed to bridge the gap between the two-seat 365 GTB/4 Daytona and the larger, more comfort-oriented 365 GT4 2+2.
By 1972, the model represented Ferrari’s refined interpretation of the front-engined V12 grand tourer. While the Daytona emphasized high-speed performance and motorsport lineage, the GTC/4 offered a more accessible and versatile alternative without sacrificing engine sophistication.
Production was limited, with approximately 500 examples built between 1971 and 1972. This relatively low figure reflects its niche positioning and short production span. The 365 GTC/4 also marked one of the final applications of the traditional Colombo V12 in a classic front-engined 2+2 layout before Ferrari moved further into new design and engineering directions in the mid-1970s.
Quirks and Pop Culture:
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 is sometimes overshadowed by the more famous Daytona, despite sharing its core engine architecture. Enthusiasts often describe it as a “Daytona for grown-ups” due to its slightly detuned engine and more comfortable character.
One distinctive feature is the black front grille panel housing the headlights, which differs from many earlier Ferraris with exposed round lamps. This gives the GTC/4 a subtle but modern look for its era.
Although it lacks the racing pedigree of the Competizione Daytonas, the 365 GTC/4 represents a significant part of Ferrari’s road car evolution. Its balance of speed and comfort has made it increasingly appreciated among collectors who value usability alongside V12 performance.
Display and preservation:
The vehicle was exhibited at the Retro Classics Stuttgart in 2022. This car show is one of the major events on the classic car calendar in Germany. In 2022, it took place across five exhibition halls. Visitors can enjoy special showcases, hunt for rare parts and books, and buy cars—both private sellers and dealers offer a wide range of classic and youngtimer vehicles. In 2022, there was a noticeable increase in low-mileage youngtimers and classic cars.
Conclusion:
The 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 stands as a refined front-engined V12 grand tourer from a pivotal period in Ferrari’s history. Technically defined by its 4.4-liter Colombo V12, rear-mounted transaxle, independent suspension, and disc brakes, it combined high performance with enhanced practicality. Its Pininfarina design emphasized elegance over aggression, while its limited production ensures exclusivity. Positioned between the Daytona and the 365 GT4 2+2, the 365 GTC/4 remains an important and often underrecognized chapter in Ferrari’s early 1970s lineage.
