1968 Ferrari 330 GT

The Ferrari 250 GTE proved that a Ferrari could have four seats and still be considered a true example of the breed. But its sales figures also proved that a practical 2+2 was attractive to the buying public, something that ensured a 2+2 would always feature in the Ferrari sales catalogue from then on.

At the end of Ferrari's 250 GTE production, 50 examples were given the new 4-litre V-12 engine and badged as the 330 America, but it was not until 1964 that the real Ferrari 250 GTE replacement was unveiled - the Ferrari 330 GT 2+2.

The first generation cars had an unusual twin-headlamp nose, which was a big departure in design terms from earlier Ferrari models. On balance, though, the car was well received by the motoring press, and considered an improvement over its predecessor.

In addition to the new 300hp version of the Colombo V-12, which improved performance considerably, its wheelbase was two inches longer, resulting in a better ride as well as allowing a larger interior for up to four occupants.

In 1964, the Series II Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 appeared with a more traditional front end treatment that now used single headlights on each wing. The Series II cars also had foot pedals that were top hinged as well as a new 5-speed gearbox instead of the first series’ 4-speed overdrive unit. Later in the run, optional power steering and air conditioning also became available. Just over one thousand 330 GT 2+2s were built from 1964-1967, including 124 interim Series I cars that had the quad headlights of the earlier cars with the pedals and 5-speed transmission of the later Series II cars.

The Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 is the relative bargain of the V-12 Ferrari world, with a value roughly half of that of its Ferrari 330 GTC sibling. However the car’s practicality and classic styling has seen values rise in recent years with the Series II single headlight cars seeing the most gains, especially those fitted with power steering and air conditioning. Alternatives for the collector are few and include the Lamborghini 400GT 2+2 and the Jaguar E-Type 4.2-litre 2+2.