Auction Highlight: 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona

Just saying the name 'Ferrari' conjures images of Mediterranean summers with clear blue skies, and twisting roads overlooking jaw-dropping coastal views, all experienced from the most beautiful, powerful and soulful machines ever to grace tarmac. Collecting Cars has sold hundreds of these breath-taking machines all around the world; from iconic classics, to the latest and most powerful creations.

Since 1947 there have been many models to come out of Maranello that have achieved truly legendary status, and the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’ was most certainly one of them. In September 2020, a beautiful example of the marque’s iconic 1970s grand tourer was listed on the platform; one of fewer than 160 examples sold new in the UK, of which only four were specified in the beautiful shade of Blu Sera Metallizzato. What’s more, courtesy of its Blu Nuvola Connolly leather upholstery, this example represented a unique specification.

Sitting underneath the flowing bonnet was a glorious 4.4-litre naturally aspirated ‘Colombo’ V12, which delivered around 347bhp to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Sold new in January 1972, this example remained with its first owner for three years, before being purchased by Jacques Pierre Labesse, an advocate in the Royal Court of Jersey. This wonderful Daytona remained with Mr Labesse for 38 years, where it mixed with illustrious company, including a Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer, 512 TR and 328 GTS, as well as a striking 1939 Lagonda V12 Saloon.

When the car came up for sale on Collecting Cars, it was offered for sale by just its fourth owner from new, and the odometer showed only 27,983 miles. Presented fresh from a bare-metal respray, with all the chromework renewed, and the interior refreshed with new carpets and upholstery, this Daytona was a truly stunning sight to behold.

Accompanied by a very large history file with excellent documentation of its ownership and Ferrari specialist maintenance history, alongside the owner’s manual, parts book, warranty card, and the sought-after Ferrari Classiche certificate; this 365 GTB/4 Berlinetta was a superb opportunity to acquire an iconic classic grand tourer with a ‘one of one’ specification among right-hand-drive cars.

With a high-revving naturally aspirated V12 engine, presented in its original colour scheme, and with low mileage from new, this Daytona attracted strong attention, gaining 29 bids and ending with a hammer price of £444,000.

Collection Cars is a go-to destination for those looking to sell or buy a Ferrari, with more than 800 cars having found new homes on the platform to date. So, if you have a well-maintained and well-documented example from the marque’s impressive back catalogue, speak to our consignment team today, to find out how we can help you achieve the best result at auction.