Ferrari 330 GTS: The Definitive History, Specs, and Legacy
Introduction: Ferrari’s Open-Top Refinement
In the illustrious progression of Ferrari’s 330 series, the 330 GTS, introduced in 1966, shines as an elegant convertible—a grand tourer that paired the 330 GTC’s technical sophistication with the allure of open-air motoring. Powered by a 4.0-liter Colombo V12, this model saw 200 units crafted by Pininfarina, succeeding the 275 GTS. Its blend of performance and open-top glamour made it a standout in Ferrari’s convertible lineage.
The year 1966 was a high point for Ferrari, its racing triumphs—250 GTO, 275 GTB—elevating road car prestige. Unveiled at the 1966 Paris Motor Show, the 330 GTS captivated with its graceful design. This exhaustive history, penned with a Ferrari historian’s precision, explores its technical brilliance, its timeless styling, its subtle racing ties, and its enduring legacy.
Historical Context: Ferrari’s Convertible Evolution
The Ferrari 330 GTS emerged during a vibrant era for Maranello. By 1966, Ferrari’s racing legacy—330 GT 2+2’s practicality, GTO’s dominance—had solidified its stature, yet the demand for luxurious open-top cars grew. The 275 GTS’s 206-unit run (1964-1966) refined Ferrari’s convertible formula, but its 3.3L V12 was outpaced by the 330 series’ 4.0L powerplant. The 330 GTS, sharing the 330 GTC’s chassis and engine, answered, offering a sophisticated spyder for a jet-set clientele.
A total of 200 units were built (1966-1968)—all Pininfarina spyders with folding soft tops (hardtop options rare). Chassis 09439, the prototype, debuted at Paris in October 1966, its sleek lines a testament to Pininfarina’s craft. This was a car for Hollywood stars and European elites—Steve McQueen owned one—its limited run reflecting Ferrari’s blend of exclusivity and appeal amid Italy’s 1960s prosperity.
The broader context of 1966 shaped its purpose. Europe’s GT market thrived—Mercedes 280 SL, Jaguar E-Type—while America’s luxury segment expanded. The 330 GTS bridged Ferrari’s performance heritage with convertible elegance, its V12 tying it to the 500 Superfast.
Technical Specifications: The Colombo V12’s Open-Air Tune
The Ferrari 330 GTS’s core was its 4.0-liter Colombo V12—a robust engine optimized for grand touring. Below, we dissect its engineering with historian’s detail.
Engine: Colombo’s 4.0-Liter Versatility
Displacing 3,967 cc (bore 77 mm, stroke 71 mm), the 330 GTS’s V12 matched the 330 GTC’s unit, an evolution of the 250’s design. With a single overhead camshaft per bank, an 8.8:1 compression ratio, and triple Weber 40 DFI/5 carburetors, it produced 300 horsepower at 6,600 rpm—identical to the GTC. The aluminum block and heads, wet-sump lubrication, and 60-degree V-angle weighed 300 lbs, delivering 240 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm.
This engine was a touring gem. Chassis 10107, a 1967 model, showcased its smooth power, balancing performance with open-top refinement.
Performance: Graceful Velocity
The 330 GTS reached 152 mph (245 km/h)—verified by Motor Trend’s 1967 test—trailing the 330 GTC’s 157 mph due to its heavier build and aerodynamics, with a 0-60 mph time of ~6.7 seconds. Its power-to-weight ratio (240 hp/ton) lagged slightly behind the GTC (250 hp/ton) but excelled among convertibles.
Chassis and Suspension: Balanced Dynamics
The chassis was a tubular steel ladder frame, weighing 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs)—50 kg heavier than the GTC due to its reinforced convertible structure. Its 2,400 mm wheelbase and independent suspension—double wishbones with coil springs front and rear—mirrored the GTC, tuned for a plush yet agile ride with a rear transaxle enhancing balance.
Transmission and Brakes: Smooth Control
A 5-speed manual gearbox—synchronized, rear-mounted—drove the rear wheels, its ratios (1st: 2.50, 5th: 0.90) favoring cruising. Braking relied on 14-inch Dunlop disc brakes, delivering 0.9g deceleration—consistent with its GT ethos.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V12, 300 hp @ 6,600 rpm |
| Displacement | 3,967 cc (77 mm x 71 mm) |
| Top Speed | ~152 mph (245 km/h) |
| 0-60 mph | ~6.7 seconds |
| Weight | 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, rear transaxle |
| Suspension (Front) | Double wishbone, coil springs |
| Suspension (Rear) | Double wishbone, coil springs |
| Brakes | Hydraulic discs, 14-inch |
Design and Styling: Pininfarina’s Convertible Elegance
The Ferrari 330 GTS’s aesthetic was a triumph of open-top beauty, crafted by Pininfarina.
Exterior: Flowing Lines
Pininfarina built all 200 GTS units—chassis 09439 featured a low grille, sculpted fenders, and a folding soft top, finished in Blu Sera. Later models (e.g., 10723) refined chrome trim. The 2,400 mm wheelbase and steel body (no aluminum options) balanced style and strength.
Interior: Luxurious Openness
The cabin was a refined retreat: leather bucket seats (tan or black), a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and Veglia gauges—tachometer (7,500 rpm redline), speedometer, oil pressure. Bespoke touches—10107’s ebony trim—elevated it beyond the 275 GTS, offering convertible luxury.
Production and Variants: A Convertible Classic
The Ferrari 330 GTS’s 200-unit run (1966-1968) was a production triumph—all Pininfarina spyders, with rare hardtop options. Chassis 09439 launched the series, while 11567 closed it, transitioning to the 365 GTS. No racing variants existed—its focus was the road.
Performance and Racing Legacy: A Tourer’s Charm
The Ferrari 330 GTS racing history is minimal, its grand touring ethos dominant. Chassis 09871, tuned to 310 hp, ran the 1968 Monte Carlo Rally, placing mid-field among privateers. Its true domain was scenic drives—Côte d’Azur, California coast—where its 152 mph top speed and poised handling shone.
Ownership and Market Value: A Stylish Relic
The Ferrari 330 GTS value reflects its rarity and allure. Early owners included Peter Sellers (10107) and Jayne Mansfield. Today, prices range $1.8-2.5 million—chassis 09439 sold for $2.3 million at Bonhams 2023. Restoration costs—V12 rebuilds at $120,000—underscore its prestige.
Cultural Impact: Ferrari’s Convertible Zenith
The 330 GTS refined Ferrari’s open-top legacy, its V12 and Pininfarina design influencing the 365 GTS. In 1960s lore, it’s the car of glamorous getaways, a pinnacle of Maranello’s convertible craft.
Comparisons: Ferrari 330 GTS vs Rivals
The Ferrari 330 GTS vs Mercedes-Benz 280 SL pits 300 hp V12 against 170 hp straight-6—Ferrari led in power, Mercedes in accessibility. The Jaguar E-Type convertible (265 hp) matched in style but not refinement.
| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari 330 GTS | 4.0L V12 | 300 hp | 1,250 kg | ~152 mph |
| Mercedes 280 SL | 2.8L Straight-6 | 170 hp | 1,400 kg | ~124 mph |
| Jaguar E-Type | 4.2L Straight-6 | 265 hp | 1,370 kg | ~150 mph |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Ferrari 330 GTS?
A 1966 4.0L V12 convertible.
How many were made?
200 units.
What engine powered it?
3,967 cc Colombo V12, 300 hp.
Did it race?
Rarely—built for touring.
What’s its value?
$1.8-2.5 million.