Lot 215

Monterey 2011

1966 Ferrari 330 GTC

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$313,500 USD | Sold

United States | Monterey, California

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Chassis No.
9091
Engine No.
9091

300 bhp, 3,967 cc SOHC V-12 engine with three Weber 2-barrel carburetors, five-speed manual transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with A-arms and coil springs, four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 94.5"

- Cosmetically restored in 2011 with mechanical restoration in 2005

- European-specification example

- Significant ownership and service documentation

- Wonderful driver with show-level cosmetics

- Matching-numbers engine

First appearing at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, the 330 Gran Turismo Coupe was a blend of several models that preceded it. Essentially mating the chassis of a 275 GTB with the engine of a 330 2+2, the GTC’s body featured a tail derived from the 275 GTS and a front end similar to the 400 Superamerica. Though its grand touring cabin was more refined than its predecessor, the 330 GTC still delivered trademark Ferrari performance, prompting The Motor magazine to compare its handling to that of a racecar.

According to Hilary Raab’s definitive book on Ferrari road cars, this 330 GTC, chassis 9091, was the 66th car in the assembly sequence and was optioned with air conditioning. Though the very early history of this car is unknown, research by the late Ferrari historian Gerald Roush indicates that in 1974 the car was offered for sale by Stephen D. Barney on behalf of Foreign Cars of Rome, Italy. By March 1976, this European-spec car had found its way to the United States and was advertised for sale in New Jersey. Shortly thereafter, while in the ownership of Steven B. Potter, this car received a complete rebuild of its engine and transaxle by the legendary Luigi Chinetti Motors in Greenwich, Connecticut. Chinetti Motors’ records reflect that later that year this Ferrari was purchased by Mr. Ishimuro, a New York resident who returned the car to Chinetti for servicing in October 1977.

A few years thereafter, chassis 9091 was acquired by Sal Calibbo of Rosemont, Pennsylvania. In March 1987 Mr. Calibbo sold the car to Foreign Cars Italia, a dealer in Greensboro, North Carolina that promptly resold it to Barry Russin of Miami, Florida. In early 1997, this car began a gradual six-month partial restoration conducted by McCabe Automotive Restoration in Mundelein, Illinois. Detailed statements reflect that this work included a repaint and re-wiring, as well as a replacement of seals, lines and hoses and a repair of the radiator. In 2000, chassis 9091 was purchased and further restored by Reid Vann of St. Louis, Missouri, a renowned restorer of European sports cars. Mr. Vann rebuilt the engine, brake booster and clutch pressure plate, repaired the air conditioner, replaced the lower ball joints, dialed in the camshafts and repainted the exterior in a deep finish of Blue Pozzi.

By 2005, this 330 GTC had come into the care of Tim York of Salinas, California. Mr. York retained Fiorano Motors of nearby Monterey to rebuild the carburetors, refinish the manifolds, replace spark plugs and points, replace bushings and refinish the suspension, and replace soft parts as needed. By August 2005, Fiorano had also installed a new ignition system, new carpets and a new vintage battery. Service receipts further reflect that subsequent owner Stephen Block retained the renowned Ferrari restorer Patrick Ottis in June 2007 to conduct a myriad of minor work, including a complete brake servicing.

In early 2010, this elegant Ferrari was acquired by the consignor, who has since invested considerably in correcting minor cosmetic deficiencies and presentation details, including a full diagnosis by Mr. Ottis. Fit and finish were addressed with the re-alignment of numerous components, including the dashboard, hood, muffler and various trim pieces. The steering wheel was refinished, and a period-correct Becker radio was installed. While the interior was freshened with new heel pads and carpeting, the exterior paint was color sanded, buffed and polished, the engine compartment was meticulously detailed, and the Campagnolo alloy wheels were refinished.

This beautifully presented 330 GTC is one of only 600 examples built between 1966 and 1969 and is a wonderful illustration of Ferrari’s vision of late-60s grand touring style. It is accompanied by numerous receipts of service and restoration as well as a set of manuals, one of which is original. Still powered by its original matching-numbers V-12 engine, this Ferrari presents wonderfully and drives with prodigious confidence. It is perfectly suited for exhibition at local car shows or for the spirited cruising for which Maranello’s grand touring coupes are famed.