1976 Ferrari 365 GT 2 + 2

In 1972, at the Paris Auto Salon Ferrari unveiled an all new series to the world. It was a fast, svelte and elegant 2+2 powered by the classic VI2 engine, known as the most expensive series produced by Ferrari for 17 years. The first model was the 365 GT4 2+2 and it was followed by the 400 and 412 series, with production ending in 1989. The 365 GT4 2+2 is easily identified from its stable mates by its six rear tail lights, knock off alloy wheels and no front spoiler and was produced between 1972 and 1976, with 521 units produced, in both right or left hand drive versions.

The bodies were built and fully trimmed at the Pininfarina works in Turin, and then shipped to the Ferrari factory in Maranello for the installation of the mechanical components. Under the hood Ferrari placed a 4.4 liter V12 unit producing 340bhp at 7000rpm - the world's most potent full four-seater. Despite its 1450 kilos, the car sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds and was capable of a top speed of 155 mph.

We are informed by the vendor that this cars service history tells the story of huge chunks of money spent: 19K here, 16k there, plus more frequent wads of £5000 per time than any other service history you will have ever seen. There is a detailed almost fanatical history file to this car with bills for restoration of an incredible £137069.20, all from a classic car specialist who rebuilt this car over a period of three years from 1993 to 1996 and involved bodywork, trim and engine rebuild.The car subsequently came third in class at the 1996 Ferrari Owners Club concours competition event, of which there is obviously supporting documentation.

The 365s engine bay is filled to bursting point with that colossal V12 engine, described as mechanically superb with no noises or signs of leaks, plus all fluids are clean and to level. The clutch is described as being surprisingly light and progressive while the posotive gearbox will happily take second from cold and gets slicker the harder the engine is revving. It also benefits from a complete stainless steel exhaust system which is notoriously expensive to replace and merely highlights the fact that no expense has been spared on the upkeep of this car. This big Ferrari breathes deeply, thrums along beautifully and drives with a properly mechanical feel; investigate further and the mighty motor quickens its pulse and fires you authoritatively down the road.

We are told the bodywork is superbly straight and all the panel shut lines are excellent throughout. Likewise, the inner sills, outriggers and the rear of the chassis are also reported to be in superb order as is all bright work.. The knock-on, knock-off alloy wheels are unmarked, look superb and are shod with excellent rubber all round; this cars paw prints are of Ferrari's finest.

The guide price reflects around a fifth of the restoration cost. Sold with a new MOT certificate, this is a fantastic alternative to a similarly priced but considerably more common Aston or Bentley and is a hugely tempting proposition given its expenditure. Furthermore, each sortie feels like an occasion - pick your children up from the local school in a Ferrari and they will love you forever more!