[Llarry]

For lots of folks, the term "1970s Ferrari V-12" brings to mind the fabulous Ferrari 365GTB4 Daytona. At introduction in late 1968, it was the fastest and most expensive Ferrari ever. Automotive magazine road tests soon confirmed the factory's claimed top speed of 174 miles per hour.

The Daytona shared engine dimensions with the plain 365s but featured dual overhead cams and six Weber carbs. The output was 352 hp at 7500 rpm.

A year after the 365GTB4's debut, a spider version was offered. These ended up being much rarer than the berlinettas. The production totals through 1973 were 1,284 coupes and 122 spiders. The rarity of the spider led to a phenomenon where perfectly good coupes had their tops cut off and were converted to spiders. I think those days are long gone -- hopefully all concerned appreciate both cars now.

Those who drive the Daytona for the first time are generally shocked by amount of steering effort. The other thing that can be said about this supercar is that many of our current-era BMWs will easily blow the doors off a Daytona whether in a straight line or a curvy road. Such is progress...