In the late 1960s, the automotive world buzzed with innovation as mid-engined supercars began stealing the spotlight. By October 1966, when Ferrari unveiled the classic front-engined 275 GTB/4, competitors like Ford and Lamborghini had already embraced this revolutionary layout. Ford kicked things off with the Mk1 GT40, delivering road-ready versions by late 1965, while Lamborghini followed suit with the breathtaking Miura, reaching its first owners in 1966. Unlike the limited-production GT40, the Miura posed a serious challenge to Ferrari, boasting Italian craftsmanship and series production appeal.
Ferrari, however, didn’t sit idle during this mid-engine surge. Their V6-powered Dino 206 GT hit the market in 1968, targeting Porsche 911 buyers as an entry-level option. Meanwhile, a 12-cylinder mid-engined Ferrari, later known as the BB, was under development but lagged behind schedule. To bridge the gap and succeed the 275 GTB/4, Ferrari introduced the 365 GTB/4—a front-engined, two-seat grand tourer that debuted at the 1968 Paris Motor Show. This new model, heavier yet more powerful than its predecessor, brought superior braking and a bold design, earning the nickname “Daytona” after Ferrari’s triumphant 1-2-3 finish at the 1967 Daytona 24 Hours.
Robust Chassis Design for Optimal Handling
The Ferrari 365 GTB/4 rested on a sturdy Tipo 605 welded tubular steel chassis, maintaining the 2400mm wheelbase of the 275 GTB/4. For added rigidity, it featured a fiberglass inner tub. Independent suspension with unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, and telescopic dampers ensured a smooth ride, while anti-roll bars and ventilated disc brakes at all four corners enhanced control. The car rolled on striking five-spoke Cromodora alloy wheels—15 x 7.5 inches—fitted with Michelin XWX tires. Compared to its predecessor, the Daytona’s track widened by 39mm at the front and 36mm at the rear, boosting stability. Dual 64-liter fuel tanks, one in each rear wing, provided a generous 128-liter capacity.
Powerhouse Engine and Seamless Transmission
Under the hood, the 365 GTB/4 housed a refined version of Gioacchino Colombo’s iconic short-block 60° V12, dubbed Tipo 251. This all-alloy, dry-sumped engine ballooned to 4.4 liters, up from the 275’s 3.3 liters, thanks to a 4mm bore increase to 81mm and a 12.2mm stroke extension to 71mm, yielding 4390cc. While earlier 4.4-liter Ferrari models like the 365 GT relied on single overhead camshafts, the Daytona’s dual overhead camshaft setup mirrored the 275 GTB/4’s advanced engineering. Equipped with six twin-choke Weber 40 DCN 20/21 carburetors and a 9.3:1 compression ratio, it delivered 352 horsepower at 7500rpm and 318lb-ft of torque at 5500rpm. A five-speed transaxle, paired with a single-plate clutch and limited-slip differential, kept power flowing effortlessly to the wheels.
Sculpted Bodywork by Pininfarina
Crafted by Pininfarina and built at Scaglietti’s Modena facility, the 365 GTB/4’s body blended elegance with aggression. Its sharp nose, sleek cabin, and taut tail fused classic curves with the emerging wedge-style aesthetics of the 1970s. Steel formed the main structure, while aluminum shaped the hood and doors. Subtle engine-cooling vents on the hood maintained a clean look, free of excessive spoilers or ducts, signaling its high-speed prowess. A standout feature was the Plexiglas nose panel with etched lines framing fixed headlights, accented by minimalist chrome bumpers for a touch of sophistication.
Luxurious and Functional Interior
Inside, the Daytona offered better visibility than its mid-engined rivals. Leather adorned the bucket seats, door panels, and headliner, complemented by black vinyl accents and, later, anti-glare alcantara on the dash. The redesigned dashboard featured an oval binnacle housing eight gauges, including a prominent speedometer and tachometer, flanked by smaller dials for fuel and time. Additional gauges monitored vital stats like oil pressure and water temperature. Standard electric windows and a radio elevated comfort, making long drives a pleasure.
Customization and Performance Highlights
Buyers could personalize their Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona with options like air conditioning, headrests, and wider 9-inch rear Cromodora wheels. At 1280kg, the car achieved a top speed of 174mph and sprinted from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds—impressive figures that showcased its grand touring pedigree.
Evolution and Variants
The Daytona evolved over time. Early prototypes, like chassis 11795 shown at Paris in 1968, paved the way for production models. By 1969, the 365 GTS/4 Spyder debuted with a folding canvas roof, while a unique notchback hardtop variant remained a one-off. In response to U.S. regulations, retractable headlights replaced the Plexiglas panel between 1970 and 1971, ensuring compliance without sacrificing style. Production wrapped in 1973, yielding 1284 GTB/4s and 121 GTS/4 Spyders, before the mid-engined 365 GT4 BB took over.
Legacy of the Daytona
Today, the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona remains a legend among classic car enthusiasts. Its blend of power, style, and engineering excellence continues to captivate collectors. Whether you’re researching Ferrari Daytona specs, exploring vintage supercars, or seeking the ultimate grand tourer experience, this iconic model stands as a testament to Ferrari’s enduring innovation.
