Ferrari 275 GTB – 1 of 8 RHD With Torque Tube

Furlonger are delighted to present this 275 GTB; 1 of just 8 cars that was supplied new to the UK-market and specified in the most desirable specification of long-nose with torque tube. Replacing the iconic 250-series, the 275 GTB was unveiled at the 1964 Paris Motor Show, with many notable improvements, including the upgraded 3.3-litre V12 Colombo engine and all-round independent suspension. Other changes included the reduction in engine height creating a lower centre of gravity, and a rear mounted 5 speed transaxle gearbox.

In addition to the initial innovation of the 275 GTB, Ferrari would continuously upgrade and refine the model throughout production, the key examples of which Chassis 8391 benefits from. The installation of a torque tube dramatically improved the durability and driveability of the drivetrain and the re-profiled long-nose design reduced the high speed ‘lifting’ that earlier cars suffered from.

This remarkable example is finished in its original colour combination of Celeste Chiaro Metallizzatto over Nero and was delivered new to Colonel Ronnie Hoare or ‘The Colonel’ himself in 1966 through his Maranello Concessionaires. After using the 275 GTB for a short period as his personal car, and covering 4,100 miles, Col. R.J Hoare sold the car to a gentleman named Mr Raymond Thompson of Sussex after meeting him and his wife in Paris the week before. Among the car’s early history is a letter from Mr Hoare to Mr Thompson dated 11th October 1966, congratulating him and expressing his delight that he has purchased his personal 275 GTB.

This period history that accompanies the car remains consistent and comprehensive, with known ownership and extensive documentation from Maranello Concessionaires from the late 1960s. Remaining in the UK for the duration of its life, Chassis 8391 was used regularly by its enthusiast owners, before which Terry Hoyle was commissioned in the early 1990s to change the car to six-carb configuration, before the car was then extensively restored by Maranello from 1991-1993.

We first handled this car in 2013, when were tasked with sourcing one of the finest UK-supplied 275 GTBs for a good client of the company. Shortly after taking ownership, the owner commissioned Neil Twyman to conduct a complete restoration to factory specification; a process that was documented by Tony Willis of Ferrari Classiche from its inception to completion.

Having recently enjoyed extensive mechanical and cosmetic preparation in the Furlonger workshop prior to being presented at the show, this 275 GTB is surely one of the finest available today. Being 1 of just 8 cars originally configured in this specification, the car is complete with Classiche Certification and matching colours and numbers. This is further complemented by a comprehensive and interesting period history; a significant car that is ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.

Please ask about further details on Chassis 8391’s period history and 2010s restoration.