Founder’s Grandtourer - Some cars are remembered for setting records, while others become memorable because of the people who chose to drive them. The Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 belongs to the second group. Although Ferrari produced many celebrated models, this grand tourer gained a special place in history because it was among the few production Ferraris personally used by Enzo Ferrari. Success in motorsport had increased public interest in the brand, creating demand for a car that could offer more comfort without losing Ferrari’s performance DNA.
1962 Ferrari 330 GT Prototype Coupe with chassis number #4085 used by Enzo Ferrari as his personal car. (Picture from: Schmitt)
To answer that need, Ferrari introducedthe first 330 GT 2+2 prototypein the summer of 1962. The model evolved fromthe limited-production Ferrari 330 America, but it was far more than a simple update. A new chassis with a wheelbase two inches longer than its predecessor helped improve its grand touring character. The car also featured a classic Ferrari silhouette, defined by a long hood, elegant proportions, and a short rear deck.
Enzo Ferrari pictured with his personal 1962 Ferrari 330 GT Prototype Coupe with chassis number #4085. (Picture from: Schmitt)
Its stylish appearance was the work of Tom Tjaarda, a young designer who joined Ferrari in 1961 after working for Pininfarina. At just 27 years old, he created a shape that balanced sophistication with sporting intent. The 2+2 cabin layout added practicality, making the car suitable for longer journeys while preserving its exclusive feel.
1962 Ferrari 330 GT Prototype Coupe comes with a 2 + 2 layout and also carries a distinctive shape with a long hood and a Ferrari's classic short trunk profile. (Picture from: InsideHook)
Power came from a refined Colombo V12 engine enlarged to 3,967 cc, or roughly 330 cc per cylinder. Equipped with three Weber carburetors, the engine produced 300 horsepower at 6,600 rpm. Ferrari paired it with a four-speed manual gearbox featuring electric overdrive to make high-speed cruising more efficient.
1962 Ferrari 330 GT Prototype Coupe with chassis number #4085 is featured in a light ivory beautiful color plus a gorgeous black leather interior. (Picture from: Schmitt)
The 330 GT 2+2 was engineered as a true long-distance performance machine. Independent front suspension and a robust rear axle with longitudinal pushrods and tubular shock absorbers helped deliver stability at speed. Its smooth road manners earned praise from Car and Driver in 1965, which described the car as exceptionally composed at speeds above 80 mph.
1962 Ferrari 330 GT Prototype Coupe with chassis number #4085 powered by a Colombo V12 refined engine is fed by three Weber carburetors to produce 300hp of power at 6,600rpm. (Picture from: InsideHook)
Production ended in 1967 after only 1,087 examples were built. The first 627 cars were easily recognized by their distinctive four-headlight front design. One 1962 prototype finished in light ivory with a black leather interior became especially significant. Ferrari kept the car for two years, used it for the original brochure, and displayed it at the 1962 Brussels Motor Show. Carrying chassis number 4085, it later served as Enzo Ferrari’s personal car before being sold to Luigi Chinetti Motors in June 1964.
Decades later, Daniel Schmitt & Co.sold the same car for US$495,000 in 2018, more than double the model’s average market value according to Hagerty. Today, it remains one of the clearest links between Ferrari’s legendary founder and one of the company’s most elegant grand touring cars. *** [EKA [24122020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SCHMITT | INSIDE HOOK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
