Ferrari Daytona, the American dream

To celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Jean-Claude Andruet-"Biche's" victory, the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 "Daytona" was in the spotlight during the 31st Historic Auto Tour, which took place from April 25 to 30, between Paris and Andorra.

Published on 01/05/2022 à 17:00

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First race outing at the 24 1970 Hours of Daytona for the NART “special”, entrusted to Bucknum-Pickett © DPPI

Rather heavy and bulky, it was not intended for racing. However, it is thanks to its results that it joined the legend of the 250 GT and GTO. Its name echoing the glorious hat-trick of the P4s at the 24 1967 Hours of Daytona was not definitive, since it was presented at the 1968 Paris Motor Show under the name 365 GTB/4. More evocative, “Daytona” will however stand out in people’s minds. By its atypical line as much as by the figures announced (400 hp and 300 km/h), it impressed as soon as it was released. By keeping the engine at the front, Ferrari did not make concessions to modernity, wanting a comfortable GT, usable on the road without being frightened. Built by Scaglietti, the steel bodywork was designed by Pininfarina. The short wheelbase used since the 250 GT SWB is retained, with wider tracks. Coupled to a 5 synchronized gearbox, the engine is a 12 liter aluminum 60° V4.4