1971 FERRARI 365 GTB/4 DAYTONA - 28,000 MILES

This Ferrari 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’ Berlinetta is a stunning example of the marque’s iconic 1970s grand tourer, presented in its original factory colours, and with official Classiche certification. Its engine is the 4.4-litre ‘Colombo’ V12, producing around 347bhp, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 27,983 miles from new.

Chassis number 14747 is an original right-hand drive, UK market example with pop-up headlights. Previous research by Ferrari specialist Mike Wheeler of Rardley Motors revealed that the build slot was originally specified in Giallo Fly, but when the gentleman cancelled his order, the specification was changed to the more appealing Blu Sera Metallizzato hue.

One of only four 365 GTB/4 Berlinettas to arrive on UK shores in this particular paint colour; it so happened that each car was trimmed in a different colour from Connolly’s leather palette. Of those four, this is therefore the sole car trimmed in Connolly’s ‘Blu Nuvola’ light blue hide.

The car was sold to its first private owner, Mr Hue-Williams, in January 1972, and the original registration plate is believed to have been JPE 86K. It is understood to have remained with this owner for the next three years, before it was purchased by Jacques Pierre Labesse, an advocate in the Royal Court of Jersey.

The Daytona would remain in Mr Labesse’s care for the next 38 years, until he passed away in January 2013. The car was part of a significant collection, which at one time or another also included a Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer, 512 TR and 328 GTS, as well as a striking 1939 Lagonda V12 Saloon. During its time on Jersey, the 365 GTB/4 was cared for by Melbourne Garages, and latterly by Paul Keens - a former employee of the workshop who had set up his own concern.

After Mr Labesse’s death, his car collection was discreetly sold off. However, before this Daytona left Jersey, Paul Keens carried out some recommissioning work to the car as it had been largely unused for around 10 years. In preparation for listing this 365 GTB/4 on Collecting Cars, Mr Keens has confirmed Mr Labesse’s near 40-year ownership, as well as the fact that it is a genuine low-mileage car - thanks to it being part of such a substantial collection where cars were used sparingly.

Five years ago, the car was acquired to join another significant collection, and was more recently sold to the seller, who is only the third UK owner on the log book, and the fourth from new. It is now offered for sale to a Ferrari enthusiast who can continue to cherish this remarkable Daytona as its few owners have done so far.

The bodywork and paint presents in superb condition, and is fresh from a photo-documented bare-metal repaint by a Ferrari specialist. The shut lines and panel gaps are impressive all around the car, and the renewed chrome is also in excellent order, with a mirror finish on the window surrounds as well as the front and rear bumpers. It is supplied with both the original specification 7.5-inch width Cromodora rear wheels, as well as the larger optional 9-inch rear items, so the next owner can fit whichever they prefer. A full-size spare is also present under the boot floor.

In the cabin, the light blue Connolly leather has been refreshed with new carpets and upholstery for the seats, again with work carried out by a recognised Ferrari specialist, bringing the interior up to the same high standard as the paintwork. The correct steering wheel and gear knob are present, and the car has headrests for both seats, as well as factory-fitted air-conditioning. There are no known faults with any of the switchgear or electrics.

The car is reported to have a very large history file, providing excellent documentation of its ownership and maintenance, which is fully up-to-date and carried out by marque specialists. It is said to be in fine mechanical order, ready to take to the open road and enjoy the song of its high-revving four-cam V12.

While now exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, the Daytona was last put through a test on 18 December 2017 at 27,639 miles, which it passed at the first attempt with no advisories.

Accompanying the car is the aforementioned history file, as well as the owner’s manual, parts book, and a warranty card in the tan leather wallet. The car has Ferrari Classiche certification, and the report folder is present. A full original 365 GTB/4 tool roll is also included in the sale.

With fewer than 160 examples sold new in the UK, this Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Berlinetta is a rare yet instantly recognisable classic V12 grand tourer. This particular car surely ticks all the boxes for the serious collector, boasting genuine low mileage and low ownership, a unique factory colour combination among the UK-supplied cars, and impeccable provenance. It is an opportunity not to be missed if you have always wanted the legendary ‘Daytona’ among your collection.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.