The 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta by Scaglietti represents one of the final expressions of Ferrari’s classic front-engined V12 era. Delivered new to the United Kingdom in December 1972, this rare right-hand-drive Daytona remains an exceptional example of craftsmanship, originality, and enduring performance heritage.
Design and Development
Nicknamed the “Daytona” in tribute to Ferrari’s victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona, the 365 GTB/4 marked a turning point in Maranello’s grand touring lineage. Designed by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina, the car broke away from the softer forms of its predecessors, replacing them with sharper, more assertive lines. Beneath its distinctive profile, the Daytona continued Ferrari’s racing-inspired engineering ethos, blending elegance with purposeful aggression.
Chassis and Origins
Chassis number 16331 is one of just 158 right-hand-drive examples built. Originally ordered through Maranello Concessionaires, it was finished in the striking factory colour of Argento Auteuil over a Nuvola leather interior. This combination, paired with desirable options such as Cromodora wheels, air conditioning, and a bumper bar, captured the understated sophistication Ferrari clients sought during the early 1970s.
Distinguished Provenance
The car’s first owner, the Honorable John Dawnay, Viscount Downe, was known for campaigning legendary cars including the Aston Martin DP214, Ferrari 250 GTO, and Ford GT40. Shortly after delivery, the Daytona was sold through Maranello Concessionaires to Sir Raymond Johnstone CBE, who retained it until 1980. It then passed to collector David Lomas, a man meticulous in his care and documentation, who kept a detailed logbook of every journey alongside extensive service records.
Condition and Preservation
Throughout its life, this Ferrari has remained in outstanding condition. A bare-metal respray by RS Panels in 1993 and ongoing maintenance by renowned specialists such as DK Engineering and Italia Autosport reflect the attention to detail afforded by successive owners. The car’s matching-numbers engine, gearbox, and body confirm its authenticity, while accompanying books, manuals, and purchase documents provide a full trace of its history.
Power and Performance
Under its long bonnet lies Ferrari’s legendary 4.4-litre quad-cam Colombo V12, producing around 352 horsepower through six Weber carburettors. Combined with a rear transaxle and near-perfect weight distribution, the Daytona delivers balance and precision unmatched in its era. The combination of brute power and refined control cemented its reputation as one of the most capable front-engined Ferraris ever built.
Documentation and Details
This example is accompanied by its Ferrari books, manuals, and a rare warranty card, along with copies of original purchase paperwork from Maranello Concessionaires. Presenting with chassis number 16331, engine number B 2156, and body number 1002, it carries UK registration and remains eligible for export under licence.
Summary
This 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta by Scaglietti combines rarity, impeccable provenance, and timeless design. As a right-hand-drive model retaining its matching numbers and factory-correct finish, it embodies the essence of Ferrari’s grand touring legacy, graceful, powerful, and pure.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
