Classic Cars

1966 Ferrari 330 GTC

September 19, 2015 No Comments

When hearing the name Ferrari, speed and performance immediately come to mind. This powerhouse producer has emblazoned the automobile world with numerous samplings of automotive genius. The 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC is no exception. This beauty exemplifies everything that the Ferrari tradition has mastered. The Pininfarina styling provided the elegance demanded of the top performance machine.

In its favor, the 330 GTC has an independent suspension system among many of the features. Another important element was the addition of disc brakes with servo assist. This allowed for excellent handling and a smooth ride. She runs fast too, reaching speeds of 152 mph. It was recorded to go from 0 – 60 in 6.9 seconds, and 0 – 100 in under 17 seconds. What is it that makes this machine a dream?

The body features steel over tubular steel chassis. Rear wheel drive and worm and roller steering kept this beast in check. With a curb weight of 2866 pounds and 173 inches from bumper to bumper, the Ferrari 330 GTC was a lovely sight to see.

The V12 Type 209 60 engine is supported by an SOHC valvetrain fed by 3 Weber 40 DFI carburetors. The bore and stroke is 77 and 71 mm respectively. The displacement measures out at 3967cc, and the specific output is 75.62bhp per litre.

Any auto enthusiast certainly will respect the class and appearance of the Ferrari line. Although the 330 GTC is not high on the list, there is an appreciation of the fine craftsmanship put into the heart and soul of this machine. Things that the car is known for is the five speed gearbox and optional air conditioning. The wheels also had options with a classy Borrani wire wheels, or the traditional 10-hole alloy wheels. Both provide the striking unmistakable image of a classic Ferrari.

1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Photos:

Cars, Classic Cars, Toyota

1967 Toyota 2000 GT

September 1, 2015 No Comments

Although Japan was not largely known for sports car production, the fastback 1967 Toyota 2000 GT made an impressive debut. The automobile was collaboration between Toyota and Yamaha. This model was only produced for three years, but it brought Japan into the global market and gave Toyota their first Supercar.

The Toyota 2000 GT features a longitudinal mounted straight 6 2.0L engine that was redesigned with a dual overhead cam to add the precision element. Producing 150 HP at 6000 RPMs, the 2000 GT was recorded at reaching 0 – 60 in ten seconds and 100 mph in 24 seconds. Fuel was fed through three two-barrel carburetion units from Solex, Nine of the 351 models manufactured contained a single OHC 2M .3 L engine. This variation allowed for top speeds of 135 mph.

Introducing something new to Japanese automotive standards, the 2000 GT provided all around disc brakes as well as a limited slip differential. Being mated to a 5-speed manual overdrive transmission proved to be a smart move on the part of the maker. When entered into competition, there were several acclaims and speed records set by this small but powerful beauty. Many FIA records held up for several years. The car that made all this history was destroyed in a pace car accident and scrapped out.

Other manufacturers were so impressed with the style, speed, and endurance of this tour car that Shelby incorporated 3 models to his style. Those cars are still in the USA and one is on permanent exhibit in Japan.

The 1967 Toyota together make this a truly remarkable addition to the memorable sports car entourage. 2000 GT featured a wheel base of 91.7 inches, and measured out at 164.4 inches. It was not built with a lot of height, and sets very low to the ground. All of these things combined together make this a truly remarkable addition to the memorable sports car entourage.

1967 Toyota 2000 GT Photos:

Classic Cars, Lamborghini

1967 Lamborghini 400 GT

August 8, 2015 No Comments

The 1967 Lamborghini 400 GT 2 + 2, first presented at the 1966 Geneva Auto Show, was built from 1966 through 1968. Lamborghini wanted to keep the same elegant proportions of the 350 GT while adding an additional two seats in the rear of the car. Designers lowered the floor pan and raised the height 2.6 inches to fit them in. The final result was a length of 184.5 in, width of 68.0 in, and height of 50.6 in.

Space was saved with a reversal of the rear control arms and a new shape for the rear window. To comply with upgraded US safety regulations, paired headlights were installed instead of sculpted units. Another difference from the 350 is the extra front wiper. Only a few of the 242 manufactured 400 GTs were right wheel drives.

With the exception of the trunk and hood, the body changed from aluminum to steel. The heavier steel increased durability and reduced costs of production. Springs and shocks were redesigned to handle the heavier vehicle. Carrozzeria Touring designed the bodywork, coordinating with engineer Giampaolo Dallara.

A 60° V12 engine with an aluminum alloy block was placed at the front in a longitudinal position. The powerful motor had a specific torque of 374.2 nm/ 276 ft lbs @ 4500 rpm. Displacement measured 3929cc, bore 82.0mm, stroke 62.0 mm, and compression 10.5:1.

The ZF transmission was exchanged for a Lamborghini-designed five-speed transmission with Porsche syncro rings on all five gears to reduce noise. A Lamborghini unit also replaced the Salisbury rear differential. The 350’s 6 Twin-Throat 40 DCOE Weber carburetors continued for the fuel feed.

Worm and Roller steering made the rear wheel drive vehicle easier to handle. Front and rear suspension included double wishbones with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers. Girling disc front and rear brakes with Vacuum Assist stopped the 3199 lb exceptional 1967 400 GT Lamborghini.

1967 Lamborghini 400 GT Photos: