Description
The nickname ‘Queen Mary’ could be construed as a rather crude one. After all, the RMS Queen Mary was over 1, 000 feet long. However, truthfully, it’s a moniker that should be considered a token of endearment. The Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 gained its tag not only because of its extended length that ensured it was a true 2+2 unlike some competitors but also because of its unmatched levels of luxury.
This example is a 1971 model, ordered new by Maranello Concessionaires Ltd in November of 1969. It was collected from the factory in May of 1970, it was first registered to a Mr. G. Glegg of Morayshire. Externally, the car is finished in Grigio Argento. It’s often said that Ferraris should be finished in lairy colours, Rosso Corsa or Giallo Modena for example. But truth be told, this colour suits the 365 GT 2+2 perfectly.
The Pininfarina coachwork is allowed to show off its beauty without compromise. The paintwork itself is in decent condition. There are blemishes in places, but this is not a restored car. The brightwork, light clusters and trims are a similar story, the faded Pininfarina badging telling more stories than we can only imagine. The knock-off 10-hole Campagnolo wheels are in good shape, and are wrapped in a matching set of period-correct Michelin XWX tyres.
To ensure excellent road-holding and comfort, Ferrari alongside suspension specialists Koni developed a self-levelling system for the rear suspension—ideal for a car that could see luggage loads, and 4 adult passengers.
The interior is the place to be when it comes to the 365. As is typical of Ferrari’s of this period, there are more gauges than can shake a stick at. Eight in total, all in working order, housed in a dashboard wood dashboard fascia wrapped in Nero hide. The gauges, which are made by Veglia Borletti show an indicated 97, 148 miles.
The thin-rim three-spoke wooden steering wheel is lightly worn like a well broken in loafer or the neck of one of Eric Clapton’s Stratocasters. The seats, door cards and dash are all black whilst the carpet is in a contrasting shade of Dark Rosso. The rear bench seat looks as comfortable as the best offering from your local DFS.
Whilst the rear seat shows very little wear, there is some wear to the bolster of the driver’s seat. Similarly to the steering wheel, it can be easily addressed, but it holds many memories of many miles covered. Just below it on the doorstep, you’ll see the original plaque added by the supplying dealership Dickson Motors. The boot area is carpeted, and two leather rolls contain a tool kit and a jack kit as well as a full-size spare wheel which also wears a Michelin tyre.
In the engine bay is Ferrari’s iconic Colombo V12, now in 4. 4-litre or 4390cc guise. Fitted with a triple-set of Weber 40 DFI/ 5 carburettors and a claimed power of 320bhp. During the car's early life, an issue was reported of low-oil pressure under load. It was traced to a faulty gasket and the engine was rebuilt under warranty at around 4, 000 miles on the clock.
Today, however, the engine runs sweet, and the engine bay is clean and tidy. Everything is correct and present, and the car remains a numbers-matching example. The car delivers its power through a 5-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels.
The impressive history collection details the extensive maintenance this Ferrari has been subjected to throughout its life, as well as the original order request forms. In more recent times the car has been cared for by Foskers, where amongst other things a conversion to traditional rear shock absorbers was completed as well as a full mechanical overhaul in 2018, costing more than £40, 000.
In 2010 the car was subjected to a sympathetic lower body restoration that involved cutting out and removing corroded metal and a respray. This work was completed by GTO Engineering.
This is a well-loved and cared-for example of a now iconic Ferrari. From a period when cars were still built with passion and purpose. Cars are built to be driven and enjoyed, and that is exactly what this car has been, and it's now ready for a new owner to continue that tradition.
It's undeniable that all Ferraris are special. Anything that has rolled out of the doors of Maranello comes with a built-in factory sprinkle of greatness. But this car is legitimately special in part because of its preserved condition, in part because of the amazing history that comes with the car (including once being owned by a member of Mungo Jerry) but also because of its ability to transport you from point A to point B in unrivalled style, comfort and speed.
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.
