Description
The Ferrari 275 GTB/4, unveiled at the 1966 Paris Motor Show, was the final and most advanced evolution of the 275 series, representing a significant technical leap for Ferrari’s road-going grand tourers. While it retained the elegant Pininfarina-designed fastback silhouette of the earlier 275 GTB, the “/4” designation marked a major mechanical upgrade — the adoption of a four-camshaft version of Ferrari’s Colombo-designed V12, making it the first production Ferrari road car to use a quad-cam engine.
The new 3.3-liter Tipo 226 V12 was an all-alloy unit producing around 300 horsepower in standard tune, with improved breathing from the four overhead camshafts and a dry sump lubrication system derived from Ferrari’s racing engines. Equipped with six Weber carburetors and a five-speed rear-mounted transaxle, the GTB/4 could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just over six seconds and reach a top speed of around 260 km/h. The combination of the transaxle layout and fully independent suspension gave the car outstanding balance and handling precision for a front-engined GT.
Visually, the GTB/4 was very similar to the preceding long-nose 275 GTB, but a few subtle changes distinguished it. The most noticeable was the slightly bulged bonnet, designed to accommodate the taller quad-cam engine. The body, built by Scaglietti, was available in both steel and lightweight aluminum alloy, with the latter often chosen by competition-minded buyers. The long, flowing lines, muscular rear haunches, and signature triple side vents gave the GTB/4 a timeless and purposeful elegance.
The interior was refined yet focused on the driver, with leather-trimmed bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and clear instrumentation. While it offered comfort suitable for long-distance touring, its overall feel was still that of a serious performance car. Buyers could tailor upholstery colors, trim details, and optional equipment to their tastes, making each example subtly unique.
Although the GTB/4 was primarily a road car, its advanced engine and chassis design carried strong competition potential. A handful of special lightweight versions were built for racing, but the majority of production went to discerning clients who valued its blend of speed, beauty, and exclusivity.
Produced from late 1966 to 1968 in a run of just over 300 examples, the Ferrari 275 GTB/4 has become one of the most coveted front-engined Ferraris of the 1960s. It stands as a landmark model, combining Pininfarina’s sculptural beauty with mechanical sophistication that drew directly from Ferrari’s racing experience, making it as thrilling to drive as it is to behold.