Description
The Ferrari 275 GTB/C Competizione was the ultimate competition version of the 275 series, purpose-built for endurance racing and produced in extremely limited numbers between 1964 and 1966. It combined the elegant Pininfarina styling of the standard 275 GTB with extensive engineering modifications by Ferrari’s competition department, resulting in a car that could compete at the highest levels of international sports car racing while still retaining its grand touring silhouette.
The first examples, built in 1964 and 1965, were based on the short-nose 275 GTB chassis but used thin-gauge aluminum bodywork by Scaglietti, riveted for added strength while keeping weight to a minimum. These cars featured extensive lightening measures, including Plexiglas side windows, stripped-down interiors, and minimal trim. Under the bonnet sat a competition-tuned 3.3-liter Colombo V12 with six Weber carburetors, producing around 300 horsepower, paired with a rear-mounted five-speed transaxle for optimal weight distribution. Suspension remained fully independent, but settings were revised for racing, and brakes were upgraded for endurance events.
By 1966, Ferrari introduced the definitive 275 GTB/C, sometimes referred to as the “third series” competition model. This version was developed alongside the four-cam GTB/4 but retained a two-cam engine for durability under long-distance racing stresses. The V12, designated Tipo 213 Comp, used a lightweight crankshaft, high-lift camshafts, and special pistons, producing around 280–300 horsepower with excellent reliability. The body was even more radically lightened, with ultra-thin alloy panels and extensive use of riveted construction, resulting in a car that weighed roughly 150 kg less than a standard steel-bodied GTB.
Aerodynamic refinements included the long-nose front end for stability at high speeds, subtly flared wheel arches to accommodate wider racing tires, and additional cooling vents. The interior was bare and functional, with lightweight bucket seats, essential gauges, and little else. Everything was engineered for speed, endurance, and driver focus.
The 275 GTB/C Competizione achieved considerable success in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 1000 km of Monza, and the Targa Florio. At Le Mans in 1965, a privately entered 275 GTB/C finished third overall and first in class, proving its ability to run at the front against pure prototypes. The model earned a reputation for durability, balance, and high-speed stability — all essential qualities for a GT endurance racer.
Only a handful of true factory-built 275 GTB/C Competizione cars were produced, making them among the rarest and most valuable Ferraris ever built. Today, they are celebrated as one of the last front-engined Ferrari GT cars to achieve major international racing success, combining the beauty of a Pininfarina design with the uncompromising engineering of Ferrari’s competition program. Owning one represents the pinnacle of both Ferrari collecting and historic racing pedigree.