Ferrari 365BB (1974)

The 365 GT4 BB replaced the immortal 365 GTB/4 Daytona. It would be substantially different from previous models in two respects. Firstly, Ferrari opted for a Flat-12 engine as opposed to the traditional V12. Equally importantly though, the F1-derived motor would be mounted in the middle of the chassis to improve handling. Lamborghini had adopted the mid-engined layout nearly seven years earlier with their incredible Miura. 1973's BB production car was inspired by the unique P6 Berlinetta Speciale, a one-off shown on Pininfarina's stand at the 1968 Turin Salon. The mid mounted Flat-12 featured a displacement of 4390cc and was clearly derived from the three-litre motors used so successfully in the 312 B and B2 Grand Prix cars raced by the Scuderia Ferrari between 1970 and '74. These engines are always referred to as a Flat-12 over-square Boxer, the dimensions of these engines are actually more like those of a V-banked engine with an angle of 180°. Hence the car was give the "BB" suffix for "Berlinetta Boxer"

With a top speed in excess of 175mph and 0-60 in just 5.4 seconds, the GT4 BB was an impressive performer in 1973 and remains so even today. The 365 GT4 BB was launched at the Paris Salon during October 1973, although the first prototype had been seen as long ago as Turin '71. Production continued until late 1976, by which time the successor to this 4.4-litre 365, the new 5-litre 512, had replaced it. Just 387 GT4 Boxer's were completed in little more than three years, 58 of which were in right-hand drive.

This particular 365 BB was completed in October 1974 and was originally finished in Bianco Polo Park over Nero. It was supplied by Maranello Concessionaires to Wearwell Ltd. It would pass through several owners before being purchased by Mr Orlovsky in 1990. At the time of purchase, the car was refinished in Rosso Corsa. During his ownership, the car would benefit from occasional use but saw regular maintenance at the original supplying dealer. Mr Orlovsky then carried out a full restoration and repaint of the car along with a mechanical overhaul with Maranello Concessionaires completing the work in 2000. He would go on to enjoy the car for a further 14 years until it was sold via Rardley Motors to PMC Ltd in 2014. After purchase, the car was once more treated to a mechanical overhaul including a full engine rebuild at SMDG Ferrari Specialists. This example has covered just 6,500 documented miles since 1987.

This lovely 365BB is currently available at our showrooms just outside London and is available to view immediately.