Ferrari 365 California: The Rarest Ferrari 365

The 365Ferrari registry documents these extraordinary machines, preserving the histories of the 14 examples that represent the final traditional coachwork in California before the nameplate disappeared for 40 years.

Explore more: Ferrari 365 History | 365Ferrari Membership | Submit Your Ferrari 365

Only 14 Ferrari 365 California examples exist worldwide. Unveiled at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, the 365 California represents the final iteration of Ferrari’s legendary “California” nameplate before its 40-year dormancy and eventual modern revival in 2008. As successor to the iconic 250 California, the 365 California continued Ferrari’s tradition of elegant open-top grand tourers built exclusively for discerning collectors.

Ferrari broke with tradition by offering the 365 California exclusively as a full four-seat cabriolet, combining open-air V12 performance with practical seating capacity. Each example featured hand-built Pininfarina bodywork powered by a 320-horsepower Colombo V12, bespoke exotics crafted for the most demanding clientele. These cars rarely appear at auction, and the 365Ferrari registry documents their extraordinary histories.

FERRARI 365 CALIFORNIA QUICK FACTS

• FERRARI 365 CALIFORNIA QUICK FACTS
• Production: 14 examples (1966-1967)
• Serial Numbers: SN8347-SN10369
• Engine: 4.4L Colombo V12, 2-cam, 320 hp
• Configuration: Open-top cabriolet, 4 seats
• Body: Pininfarina coachwork
• Successor To: Ferrari 250 California

Join 365Ferrari – $125/Year | Explore the Registry | Already a Member? Login

Ferrari 365 California History

Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966, the 365 California was unveiled. The 365 California saw Ferrari break with tradition as it was offered exclusively as a Cabriolet (and a full four-seat Cabriolet at that). Ferrari’s prototype 365 California was built on a Tipo 571 tubular steel frame (as used by the 330 GT).

The 365 California succeeded the legendary 250 California, continuing Ferrari’s tradition of elegant open-top grand tourers designed for an exclusive clientele. The “California” nameplate originated in the late 1950s, targeting wealthy American buyers who demanded open-air performance suited to West Coast driving. Production lasted just over one year, from 1966 to early 1967, after which Ferrari discontinued the California nameplate entirely. The name would remain dormant for over 40 years until the California revival in 2008, a completely different car for a different era.