Filling a gap in Ferrari’s line-up between the four-seat 330 GT 2+2 and the high-performance 275 GTB, the two-seat 330 GTC was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966. It was essentially a coupe version of the 275 GTS. Pininfarina’s elegant coachwork combined elements of the latter at the rear, with the 500 Superfast influencing at the front. It would be hard to argue with Car & Driver’s assessment that “the GTC is a tasteful blend of the mean-and-low look of Ferrari competition GT cars, with the elegance of super-luxury street Ferraris of the past. Detail work, finish, panel fit – every aspect is superlative.”

Under the 330 GTC’s hood is the 4.0-liter, 300-bhp version of Ferrari’s famous twin-cam, 60-degree V-12, as used in the 330 GT 2+2. Broadly similar to that of the concurrently produced 275 GTB, the short (2,400-mm wheelbase) chassis followed Ferrari’s established practice of tying together sturdy oval-section main tubes in a steel space-frame, while the suspension was independent all round by wishbones and coil springs. First introduced on a road-going Ferrari (the 275 GTB) in 1964, the rear suspension incorporated the five-speed gearbox in a transaxle, an arrangement that created a better-balanced car and one that gave its driver “the wonderful sense of knowing just exactly what’s going on between one’s posterior and the pavement.”

Ferrari devoted a generous amount of development work that concentrated on interior noise reduction, which with its slim pillars and large glass area, grants the occupants excellent visibility and a sense of spaciousness. The 330 GTC was luxuriously equipped in the finest Gran Turismo style, with leather seats, electric windows, and heated rear glass as standard (radio and Borrani wire wheels were optional). With a top speed in excess of 150 mph, superior ride comfort, and sure-footed handling, Ferrari could justifiably claim the 330 GTC to be the finest of high-speed touring machines available for two people and their luggage.

Originally delivered new to Luigi Chinetti Motors of Greenwich, Connecticut, this 330 GTC was first sold to well-known Ferrari customer John Messore of Miami, Florida. The car remained in Florida until the mid-1980s before making its way to San Francisco, California, where it would eventually be exhibited at shows. This 330 GTC became the first production Ferrari to be invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 1998, a testament to the high quality and authenticity of this car.

Junior Conway of Junior’s House of Colors painted this striking Fly Yellow Ferrari in 2005 and, as is typical of his renowned perfectionism, the quality of paintwork is exceptional. The bodywork is excellent and the chrome, rubber, and glass are all highly presentable. Renowned automobile upholsterer Tony Nancy expertly trimmed the interior and, to this day, it continues to look amazing. Fitted with the classic AM/FM radio, leather bucket seats, and wood-rimmed steering wheel, the interior embodies the elegance of a 1960s Gran Turismo.

The beauty of this 330 GTC is more than just skin deep. The exacting mechanical restoration is a testament to the work of Norbert Hofer’s Gran Touring Classics of Los Angeles, and upon inspection, it is clear that the engine bay and undercarriage are all prepared to the highest standards of authenticity and finish. The engine bay features the correct crackle-finish texture, copper tubing, hoses, and clamps. It is tidy, correct overall in appearance, and shows little use. Even the stance is perfect as it is fitted with the optional Borrani wire wheels and correct XWX tires. At the time of its restoration, the car had covered approximately 60,000 miles and was said to be in excellent condition.

The authentic restoration has earned this 330 GTC a bevy of 1st place prize awards at such venues as Santa Barbara, Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, Torry Pines, and Concorso Italiano. It has also received two Platinum Awards, one each in Monterey and the 2005 Cavallino Classic in Palm Beach. It has been properly maintained and driven sparingly in recent years, maintaining a high level of quality of appearance and drivability. A head-turning, exciting color scheme matched with an impressive provenance and quality restoration and care make this Ferrari exceptional among others.