The Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale is a rare and exquisite masterpiece that holds a special place in the history of automotive design and engineering. Born in the 1960s, this limited-production model is a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and luxury. In the following, we’ll explore the fascinating history, design features, technical specifications, and the legacy of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale, or the Tre Posti.
Origins of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale
The roots of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale can be traced back to the early 1960s when Ferrari was dominating the racing scene with iconic models like the 250 GTO. During this period, Ferrari sought to create a road car that would blend the thrill of racing with the comfort of a luxurious GT car. The result was the birth of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale, a limited-production grand tourer that embodied the essence of Ferrari’s racing pedigree.
The development of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale was spearheaded by Ferrari’s chief engineer, Mauro Forghieri, and the renowned designer Sergio Pininfarina. Pininfarina, responsible for shaping some of the most iconic Ferrari designs, worked closely with Forghieri to create a car that would not only deliver exceptional performance on the track but also provide a refined driving experience on the road.
Design and Styling
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale is its striking and aerodynamically efficient design. The body of the car was crafted with a keen emphasis on both form and function, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design.
The exterior of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale featured clean lines, a low-slung profile, and a distinctive front grille that became a hallmark of Ferrari’s design language. The elongated hood, sculpted fenders, and a sleek roofline contributed to the car’s dynamic and aggressive stance. The design team meticulously integrated aerodynamic elements, such as a rear spoiler and side air intakes, to enhance stability at high speeds.
Inside, the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale showcased a perfect blend of luxury and performance. The cockpit was adorned with premium materials, including leather upholstery, wooden trim, and polished metal accents. The driver-focused layout featured a well-organized instrument panel, providing essential information while maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic. The seats were designed for comfort during long journeys, highlighting Ferrari’s commitment to creating a true grand tourer.
Only two examples were ever created with various distinctive details, both in 1966. (Chassis 8971 & 8815)
Chassis 8971
Centre driving position and seating arrangement.
Two racing chassis of the 365/P2 type were used by Pininfarina to create the usable concept cars. The first of them was built on chassis 8971 and was the one destined to be a show car. Completed in September 1966 and finished in Garenia White paint, the first example was presented, in October the same year, at the Paris Motor Show on Pininfarina stand. Interior, with the three seats, were upholstered in a black imitation leather. It was however lacking any running gear at that time.
The Berlinetta Speciale chassis 8971, was presented all around the world on numerous occasions during 1966 and 1967, appearing at Earl’s Court in London, Brussels, Geneva, and Los Angeles motor shows and salons. After the show tour, US Ferrari importer Luigi Chinetti, acquired the car in May 1967. It was invoiced by Ferrari for the racing chassis with modifications and by Pininfarina for the bodywork and tooling bills. The reported price was around US$21,160, without shipping costs. Chinetti soon sold and bought back the car twice to his customers, at first to a New York banker for US$26,000.
From 1969, the Berlinetta Speciale remained in the Chinetti family, being used by Chinetti’s son Luigi “Coco” Chinetti Junior. In 2014 Gooding & Co. offered the car for sale and even though the reserve was not met and the car unsold, the high bid was US$23.5 million.
Chassis 8815
Berlinetta Speciale s/n 8815 of Gianni Agnelli. Standing from left: Mike Parkes, Gianni Agnelli, Giovanni Nasi, Renzo Carli and Sergio Pininfarina.
You didn’t have time to stop before people were immediately around it. But it was fun. It had monstrous acceleration. You just had to get used to the driver’s seat in the middle, because it gave an ideal any reference points to either side, right or left.
Gianni Agnelli on his Berlinetta Speciale.
The second example, chassis 8815, was reportedly commissioned by Head of Fiat Gianni Agnelli himself, upon seeing the first example presented at the Paris Motor Show. He took delivery of the car sometime in 1966. This example was finished in metallic grey with black-painted line along the length of the car. Originally it had no sunroof but had it installed early on. The car was delivered with a large, chromed rear spoiler and with fabric covered seats and during its lifetime was repainted in metallic blue and then red.
Technical Specifications
Underneath its elegantly crafted exterior, the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale housed a formidable powertrain and cutting-edge mechanical components. The heart of the car was a high-performance engine that epitomized Ferrari’s dedication to engineering excellence.
The 365 P Berlinetta Speciale was equipped with a potent V12 engine, a signature feature in Ferrari’s most iconic models. This engine, meticulously crafted and tuned by Ferrari’s skilled engineers, delivered a symphony of power and precision. The exact specifications varied across different iterations of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale, with some models featuring enhancements for racing purposes.
The chassis and suspension system were designed to provide a perfect balance between responsive handling and a comfortable ride. State-of-the-art technology, such as independent suspension and disc brakes on all four wheels, contributed to the car’s exceptional performance capabilities. The transmission options included manual and, in some cases, advanced automatic systems, catering to the preferences of discerning drivers.
| Manufacturer: Pininfarina FerrariAlso called Berlinetta Tre-posti Ferrari Guida Centrale Production: 1966 Designer: Aldo Brovarone at Pininfarina
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Body style: 2-door 3-seat berlinetta
Layout: Related Ferrari 365 P2
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Engine: 4.4 L (4390.35 cc) Colombo V12
Power output 380 PS
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Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4 in) Length: 4,400 mm (173.2 in) Width: 1,890 mm (74.4 in) Height: 1,190 mm (46.9 in) Curb weight: 1,020 kg (2,249 lb) |
Racing Heritage
While the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale was primarily conceived as a grand tourer for the road, its racing DNA was never far from the surface. Ferrari, with its rich racing history, often used technology and expertise gained on the track to enhance its road-going models.
Some variants of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale were homologated for racing, allowing them to compete in various motorsport events. The inclusion of features like lightweight materials, racing-specific tires, and additional aerodynamic enhancements showcased Ferrari’s commitment to pushing the performance envelope. The car’s participation in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Targa Florio solidified its reputation as a versatile and capable racing machine.
Production and Rarity
The Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale was produced in limited numbers, adding to its exclusivity and desirability among collectors. The exact production figures varied depending on the specific model and its intended purpose—whether as a road car, a track-focused variant, or a custom-built masterpiece for a discerning client.
The limited production not only reflected Ferrari’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail but also contributed to the car’s mystique and allure. Each 365 P Berlinetta Speciale was a work of art, meticulously assembled by skilled craftsmen and engineers at Ferrari’s Maranello factory.
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale endures as a symbol of automotive excellence, blending performance, luxury, and exclusivity. The car’s influence can be seen in subsequent generations of Ferrari models, as elements of its design and engineering innovations have been passed down to newer iterations.
The 365 P Berlinetta Speciale remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, with the two examples commanding top prices. The most recent example sold for $25mil+ USD. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, contributes to its status as a coveted piece of automotive history. The two restored and preserved examples of the 365 P Berlinetta Speciale continue to grace prestigious car shows and events, allowing a new generation of enthusiasts to marvel at its timeless design and engineering brilliance.
Conclusion
In the pantheon of automotive legends, the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale stands as a testament to the artistry and engineering prowess of the Italian marque. From its inception in the 1960s to its enduring legacy in the 21st century, this rare and exceptional grand tourer continues to captivate the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world. With its distinctive design, powerful performance, and limited to two examples, the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale remains an icon of automotive history, a true masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time and technology.