The "330" designation refers to the approximate displacement of a single cylinder in cubic centimeters. The series served as a successor to the Ferrari 250 and 400 Superamerica lines. All models utilized a 4.0 L Colombo V12 engine featuring an unusual bore and stroke of 77 mm by 71 mm. This powerplant was substantially revised from its predecessors, incorporating wider bore spacing and an alternator in place of a traditional generator.
The first model in the lineage was the 1963 330 America. This vehicle was essentially a 250 GT/E chassis and body fitted with the new Tipo 209 V12 engine, capable of 300 PS at 6600 rpm. Visually nearly identical to the Series III 250 GT/E, the 330 America was a transitional model; only 50 units were produced in late 1963.
In January 1964, Ferrari introduced the 330 GT 2+2 at the Brussels Show. Unlike the America, the GT 2+2 featured distinct styling with a sharper nose and tail, a wide grille, and a quad-headlight configuration. While power remained at 300 PS, the wheelbase was lengthened by 50 mm, and handling was refined through the use of Koni adjustable shock absorbers. The braking system utilized a dual-circuit Dunlop disc setup that separated front and rear braking.
A "Series II" version arrived in 1965, introducing a five-speed gearbox to replace the original four-speed overdrive unit. This revision also saw a return to a dual-headlight front design and the addition of alloy wheels. Between the two primary series, Ferrari produced 125 "interim" cars that combined the quad-headlight exterior of the Series I with the five-speed transmission and suspended pedals of the Series II. Total production reached 625 Series I and 455 Series II units before the model was replaced by the 365 GT 2+2 in 1967.
In 1966, Ferrari expanded the range with the 330 GTC and 330 GTS. These models were more closely related to the 275 series, sharing its short wheelbase and independent rear suspension. The GTC was a two-seater coupé designed by Pininfarina, debuting at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966. The GTS spider followed at the Paris Motor Show in October of the same year.
These models were noted for increased refinement, being quieter and easier to drive than previous Ferraris. Approximately 600 coupés and 100 spiders were manufactured. Both utilized the 300 PS four-litre engine and were eventually succeeded by the 365 GTC and GTS in 1968.
Several unique or limited-run variants were produced on 330 chassis:
330 GT 2+2 Shooting Brake: Commissioned in 1967 by Luigi Chinetti Jr. and designed with illustrator Bob Peak, this Series II car featured custom bodywork by Carrozzeria Vignale.
330 GTC Speciale: Pininfarina constructed four unique coupés in 1966 using 330 GTC underpinnings, incorporating styling cues from the 365 California.
Zagato Convertible: A 1967 330 GTC was rebodied by Zagato in 1974 with targa top bodywork for Luigi Chinetti.
Felber FF: In the early 1970s, Ferrari authorized Swiss specialist Felber to use the Ferrari name for a retro roadster. Built between 1974 and 1977, these cars used 330 GTC underpinnings and aluminium bodies by Panther Westwinds.
The 330 engine was also utilized in dedicated racing machinery, beginning with the 330 LMB (Le Mans Berlinetta) in 1963. Four units were built, essentially developing the 250 GTO concept with a 390 hp version of the 4-litre engine. The 330 LMB featured a 2,420 mm wheelbase and distinct raised plates on the rear fenders to clear the tires. Its competitive career was brief as Ferrari transitioned to mid-engined layouts; the best result for the model was a fifth-place finish at the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans by Jack Sears and Mike Salmon.
The 330 designation reached its performance peak with the mid-engined P series. The 330 P, P2, P3, and P4 models were the primary Ferrari works racers of the mid-1960s. The 330 P4, the final evolution, produced 450 hp at 8000 rpm. Weighing only 792 kg, the P4 was capable of a top speed of 320 km/h (198.85 mph).