Older readers of Motor1.com maybe look at this 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder and immediately think of Don Johnson as Sonny Crockett early in the season Miami Representative. Others may see one of the most beautiful Ferraris from the 1970s. Despite the thoughts that come to mind, Jay Leno gets to drive it in the latest video from his garage.
Owner David Lee brought the Daytona to Jay. As Leno explains, this vehicle is Ferrari’s answer to the Lamborghini Miura. In fact, they are very different machines. Instead of placing the V12 engine behind the driver like the Lambo, the 365 GTS/4 has a classic layout that places the large engine under the long hood and transmits power to the rear wheels.
Various sources, including threads on Ferrari Chat forum, let’s say there are only 122 factory examples of this Daytona droptop, making it pretty rare. Although, there is a market for some people to take the coupe variant and turn it into a convertible.
Join owners and fans in discussing this topic on FerrariChat.com!
On the road, Leno seemed very pleased with the Daytona Spyder. He repeatedly pointed out that it was a vehicle about 50 years old. This Ferrari is not as fast as the modern vehicles of the brand. However, the driving experience is comfortable, yet interesting. Without power steering or assist brakes, you have to pay attention to the road. Acceleration is fast but still allows for easy cruising. Plus, the sound is sublime.
Leno pointed out some issues with this particular Daytona. The car’s clutch needed to be replaced, which made sense since the owner thought the part was genuine. Also, there are intermittent faults from the engine. Leno was able to solve this problem in his shop. The wires to the alternator are loose, and repair is as simple as putting them back together.
