Ferrari 275 GTB: A 60s legend celebrates its 60th anniversary
Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, the Ferrari 275 GTB is one of the most iconic Ferraris of its time. With its elegant lines and revolutionary technology, it marked a turning point in the brand’s history. . Premier modèle routier de Ferrari à intégrer une boîte de vitesses arrière à cinq rapports, la 275 GTB a su combiner performances et design exceptionnel, faisant d’elle une icône intemporelle.
Ferrari elegance and innovation
Introduced in 1964, the Ferrari 275 GTB quickly established itself as one of the most powerful sports cars of its era. Equipped with a 3.3-liter V12 Colombo engine, it developed 280 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of over 250 km/h. At the time, this performance was impressive, placing it at the pinnacle of road cars.
But it’s not just speed that sets the 275 GTB apart. Ferrari innovated with this model by installing, for the first time on a road car, a rear-mounted five-speed gearbox (transaxle). This system improved weight distribution and thus the car’s dynamic behavior. This innovation marked a turning point for Ferrari, laying the foundations for the brand’s future technical designs.
A dramatic, timeless silhouette
The body, designed by the famous coachbuilder Pininfarina, is a masterpiece of automotive design. Its long hood, muscular curves and aerodynamic lines give it a dramatic, almost theatrical appearance. It is also distinguished by its round headlamps and distinctive side vents, which not only improve engine cooling but also add a touch of sportiness.
Classic car enthusiasts in Paris can still admire this model at events such as the Rétromobile show or at exclusive gatherings. This Ferrari is often compared to the legendary 250 GTO, but it stands out for its more modern look and technical innovations.
A legend
An interesting anecdote about the Ferrari 275 GTB concerns the participation of its variants in endurance races. In 1965, a 275 GTB Competizione finished third in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a feat for a car derived from a road-going model. This testifies to Ferrari’s ability to create cars equally at home on the racetrack and on public roads.
Compared to other models of the time, the Ferrari 275 GTB was a direct competitor to the Jaguar E-Type and Porsche 911. While the Jaguar also offered elegant lines and decent performance, the 275 GTB surpassed it in terms of technology and mechanical refinement. As for the Porsche 911, although very popular, it was no match for the Ferrari’s raw V12 power.
A model coveted by collectors
Today, the Ferrari 275 GTB is one of the most sought-after models among classic car collectors. Its rarity, combined with its performance and iconic design, makes it a gem at auction. In 2014, a 275 GTB/C Speciale sold for over $26 million, becoming one of the most expensive Ferraris ever sold.
For Ferrari enthusiasts, the 275 GTB remains an essential benchmark. Its influence is still felt in modern models, which continue to incorporate this quest for technical and aesthetic perfection. In Paris, the Ferrari 275 GTB makes regular appearances at luxury car shows and exhibitions, attracting the attention of all car enthusiasts.
Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the Ferrari 275 GTB reminds us why Ferrari is synonymous with performance, design and innovation, a combination that few brands have been able to maintain for so long.
Ferrari’s history continues to be written, and the 275 GTB remains one of the most glorious chapters in this automotive legend.
