Following the end of production of the 365 GT 2+2 in 1971, a momentary vacuum existed in Maranello’s model line with the absence of a pure 2+2 grand tourer. Ferrari used that year’s Geneva Salon to debut the model’s successor, the 365 GTC/4, a brand-new Pininfarina-designed and built grand touring coupe with a shape reminiscent of the concurrent Daytona. Given the streamlined exterior form, and the rear seat’s diminutive proportions, it quickly became clear that the GTC/4 was envisioned as a much sportier alternative to a typical 2+2 seater.

Ferrari commenced a brand-new chassis and engine designation system with the 365 GTC/4, which employed a revised platform from the outgoing 365 GT 2+2, and an engine based on the Daytona’s 4.4-liter dual overhead-cam V-12. The notable difference in the GTC/4’s powerplant was the revision of the induction to feature side-draft carburetion, a space-saving adjustment that allowed for a lower and sleeker hood line. Employing completely unique body panels that were in no way continued from, or carried over to, any other model, the 365 GTC/4 remains a particularly singular link in the Ferrari road car lineage, with just 500 examples built over an 18-month period.

This mid-production 365 GTC/4 was built during May 1972 and was equipped as a U.S.-specification example. Delivered new to William Harrah’s Modern Classic Motors, in Reno, Nevada, one of the nation’s principal distributors of Ferrari road cars at the time, chassis number 15635 was acquired by Neil O. Chamberlain, of Los Alamitos, California, by 1975, and it probably remained in the Golden State for the balance of its life.

Acquired by Mr. Tilley by the mid-2000s, the GTC/4 has been treated to dutiful care ever since, and it exhibits a strong overall preservation of its largely original condition. Exceptions to this originality are apparent in the seats and interior, which appear to have been reupholstered more recently, and the factory air conditioning, which has been replaced with a trunk-mounted aftermarket unit. The odometer now displays just over 31,000 miles, likely original, and the car exudes characteristic elegance with optional Borrani wire wheels. Tastefully upgraded with a modern Clarion in-dash CD player, this 365 GTC/4 offers a driver-quality Ferrari that will continue to turn heads.

The stunning black finish makes this GTC/4 look particularly sleek. While many collectors find the large black bumpers to be rather obtrusive, they blend in nicely with this color combination. The car is accompanied by a partial tool kit, as well as receipts in the file for various work performed by Fast Cars Ltd., located in Redondo Beach, as well as L.A.-based Blackhorse Motorsports. In addition, this car has been ideally detailed in preparation for its current offering, and the paint, interior, engine bay, and underside appear in very nice and tidy condition.

As the GTC/4 model slowly evolves into a bona fide collectible, 15635 will almost assuredly experience an eventual ramp in appreciation, making this well-treated 365 GTC/4 a relatively inexpensive gateway to Ferrari V-12 speculation. It is a beautiful and superbly maintained example of one of the marque’s most unique 2+2 grand tourers, and it is further distinguished by association with the esteemed Tilley Collection.

Titled as 1973.