Lot 419: 1969 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 1 of 52 right hand drive examples, 15,000 miles from new

With the intention of competing in the worldwide luxury car market, Ferrari introduced the totally new 365 GT 2+2 at the Paris Salon in October 1967. It bore a strong resemblance to both the 330 GTC Special built for Belgium's Princess de Rethy and to the famous 500 Superfast. The car was a technical triumph. It was the first 2+2 Ferrari to have four wheel independent suspension, which also featured a hydro-pneumatic self levelling system. Power steering and air conditioning were standard, whilst excellent insulation from noise and vibration was achieved by stabilising the engine, gearbox and rear axle casing in one unit and mounting it all at four points on special rubber bushes. The engine itself was the new Type 245, with a displacement of 4.4 litres, single overhead camshafts and three Weber carburettors, producing 320bhp at 6,600rpm. And with such an output the car was indeed no slouch, being capable of 152mph and 0-60mph and 0-120mph in 7.2 and 26.2 seconds respectively. During its three year production life only 800 examples of the 365 GT 2+2 were built, yet it is regarded as one of Ferrari's most successful luxury models ever made. Its everlasting good looks, effortless performance and remarkable practicality make it an excellent choice for the Ferrari collector. The example on offer is a particularly rare beast, being one of only 52 right-hand drive models manufactured. Strikingly finished in black with contrasting tan leather interior, and fitted with air conditioning and power steering, the car's good condition throughout is due in part to it having only covered 15,000 miles from new - a mileage which can be verified by the accompanying large history file that includes old MoT test certificates and service invoices. Further bills include those for a bare metal re-spray and re-trim by Terry Hoyle in 1990, requested by its then current owner Lord Brocket. Other major work included a gearbox rebuild and power steering overhaul in 1994 by Talacrest and suspension and mechanical work by other marque specialists. The car is supplied with the original spare parts catalogue and a V5 registration document. More practical, rarer and certainly cheaper than a Daytona, this 365 GT 2+2 is a superb collectors' Ferrari and it is sure to become a sound investment with prices set to rise.