 |
www.QV500.com - Ferrari 275 Part 3: 275 GTS |
 275 GTS chassis 6889 GT |
The 275 GTS is an often-underestimated model from Ferrari's past, this because of its restrained styling and slightly de-tuned engine. It used a Tipo 563 chassis almost identical to the Berlinetta, this coming fitted with Tipo 213 engine redlined at 7000rpm (instead of the GTB's 7800). Producing 260bhp then as opposed to the Berlinetta's 280, the GTS was still a formidable performer. With its top speed of 147mph and 0-60 requiring just 6.6 seconds, little else could match it as a great all-rounder. Where undoubtedly the most striking difference between the GTB and Spyder lay though was the roadsters totally new bodywork. |
| Bearing no resemblance whatsoever to the Berlinetta, the GTS incorporated a fusion of Pininfarina's tried and tested features. Unlike the GTB that wore body panels fabricated at the Scaglietti works in Modena, Spyder's were designed and built in Turin. Constructed from steel with alloy doors, bonnets and boot lids, they got open headlights, boat-like tails and strict two-seater cockpits. There was a full-width front bumper and simple quarter units at the rear, Borrani's 72-spoke wire wheels that were an expensive option on Berlinetta's coming as standard. The first six or so GTS' were built with a passenger seat wide enough for two people but due to homologation problems, this interesting feature had to be exchanged for a more standard item. Inside marked another departure from the GTB, Spyder cockpits coming with less heavily bolstered seats trimmed in full Connolly leather. A beautiful teak veneered dash appeared outwardly similar to the Berlinetta facia, this actually featuring several minor switchgear differences. Launched alongside the 275 GTB at October 1964's Paris Salon, the GTS was an overdue replacement for Ferrari's Series II 250 GT PF Cabriolet that had ceased production back in 1962. Public and press reaction was enthusiastic but it wasn't long before Ferrari implemented the first of several minor alterations. |
 A fusion of Pininfarina design cues, 6889 GT |
Most noticeable was the switch from a bank with 11 engine cooling vents to a triple lourved panel behind each front wheel in early 1965. Rocker switches for the centre console were also introduced around the same time. Options included two styles of hardtop and electric windows, production continuing until early 1966 when the even more elegant 330 GTS replaced it. Ferrari's torque tube coupling was never used on the GTS because the Tipo 563/66 chassis did not become available on the Berlinetta until January 1966, by which time the Spyder was soon to be discontinued. During its short production, 200 were completed, 14 in right-hand drive. |
 |
 |