The 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider by Scaglietti represents the absolute pinnacle of front-engine, open-top motoring from Maranello’s golden era. Completed in late 1971 as chassis number 15007, this exceptional example was originally destined for the American market through Bill Harrah’s legendary Modern Classic Motors. Beyond its mechanical prestige, this Daytona Spider carries an alluring Hollywood provenance, having been sold to Warner Brothers Pictures in 1975. Today, it stands as a Ferrari Classiche certified masterpiece, blending verified matching-numbers authenticity with a cinematic history that few automobiles in the world can rival.
Rosso Chiaro Curves and Borrani Wire Wheels
The exterior silhouette of this Daytona Spider is a triumph of Scaglietti craftsmanship, recently refreshed with a professional repaint by the official Ferrari distributor, Charles Pozzi, in Paris. Finished in its original Rosso Chiaro, the car’s long hood and short rear deck epitomize the classic grand touring proportions of the early 1970s. It sits elegantly on factory Borrani wire wheels, which perfectly complement the chrome brightwork and quad-exhaust tips. As one of only 121 genuine factory spiders produced, its visual character is defined by a level of exclusivity that distinguishes it from the more common Berlinetta variants.
Beige Connolly Leather and Cinema-Correct Refinement
Inside the cockpit, the car is currently outfitted with a beige interior, the same specification it would have worn during its believed role in the 1976 film The Gumball Rally. The cabin features high-quality Connolly leather and is equipped with factory Borletti air conditioning, a luxury essential for a premium American-market delivery. Though originally delivered in Nero over Rosso seat inserts, the current tan configuration with early-style Daytona seats provides a warm, inviting contrast to the red exterior. The tactile experience is anchored by the gated shifter and a period-correct dashboard that remains remarkably preserved.
Colombo V-12 Power and Modernized Drivability
Under the expansive hood lies the heart of the legend: a 4.4-liter Tipo 251 Colombo V-12 engine, which was rated at factory benchmarks of 352 hp (357 PS) and 318 lb-ft (431 Nm) of torque. This matching-numbers powerplant is paired with a five-speed manual transaxle, delivering a balanced weight distribution and a visceral mechanical feel. In 2018, the car underwent an extensive £48,019 service at Joe Macari in London, receiving an upgraded aluminum radiator, high-torque starter motor, and sport exhaust. These enhancements ensure that the high-revving V-12 remains reliable and performant in modern traffic conditions while retaining its iconic acoustic signature.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Chassis Number | 15007 |
| Engine Number | B 1488 (Original) |
| Engine Configuration | 4.4L Colombo V-12 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual (Correct Type) |
| Certification | Ferrari Classiche Certified (2017) |
| Exterior Color | Rosso Chiaro (20-R-190) |
| Interior Material | Beige Connolly Leather |
A Scarcity Advantage in the Global Ferrari Market
In the landscape of elite car collecting, the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider by Scaglietti occupies a space far above its primary rival, the Lamborghini Miura Jota or the Maserati Ghibli Spyder. While over 1,200 Berlinettas were built, the genuine factory spiders are a vanishingly rare commodity that consistently sets benchmarks at global auctions. This car’s unique selling point is its documented history, ranging from its display at the 1972 Los Angeles Auto Show to its tenure with Warner Brothers. Such a combination of low production numbers and high-profile provenance ensures its status as a cornerstone asset for any world-class collection.
Single-Family Stewardship and Classiche Assurance
The value of chassis 15007 is significantly bolstered by its ownership history, specifically the 34-year period of single-family stewardship under Robert D. Toney and his heirs. Such long-term retention often signals a car that has been cherished rather than traded, a fact reinforced by its 2017 Classiche Certification. This red book confirms the presence of the original body, chassis, and engine, providing the ultimate peace of mind for the discerning investor. Following a period of European residence and expert servicing, its recent repatriation to the United States makes it a turnkey entrant for the most prestigious concours events on American soil.
Final Verdict on a Cinematic V-12 Legend
The 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider by Scaglietti is more than a vehicle; it is a cultural artifact that captures the intersection of Italian engineering and Hollywood glamour. Its survival as a Classiche-certified, matching-numbers example with a film-used legacy makes it one of the most compelling Ferraris currently available. Whether appreciated for its screaming V-12 soundtrack or its documented history in two iconic 1970s films, this Daytona Spider offers an experience that is as profitable as it is pleasurable. It remains a definitive statement of speed, style, and silver-screen immortality.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
