Eric Clapton’s Iconic Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer Goes Up for Sale
The legendary Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer, previously owned by rock icon Eric Clapton, has hit the market with a price tag of £285,000. This striking vehicle, renowned for its association with Clapton’s music, has only clocked a mere 14,000 miles over the past fifty years, making it a rare gem for collectors.
This particular model, a 1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer, was famously featured on the cover of Clapton’s 1977 album Slowhand, which includes the timeless ballad Wonderful Tonight. The car, displayed in a breathtaking two-tone black and red finish, is not just a vehicle; it’s a piece of rock history.
Interestingly, the car’s journey reflects the tumultuous world of rock and roll. Clapton’s Ferrari is depicted on the back cover of Slowhand with a noticeable dent, a reminder of a chaotic moment in the guitarist’s life. Shortly after acquiring the car, Clapton crashed it while driving under the influence, a harrowing experience he recounted in his autobiography. He had purchased the vehicle, which was then the most expensive car in the world at approximately $30,000, after being inspired by fellow musician George Harrison’s sleek ride.
Clapton had a history with Ferraris; he crashed his first one in 1970 during a significant moment in his early romantic life. Despite the mishaps, his passion for luxury cars remained intact. After the accident with the 365 GT4, Clapton decided to sell the car, and it was eventually purchased by a keen-eyed individual who kept it in pristine condition for fifty years.
The current owner has meticulously restored the vehicle, painting it a striking red and ensuring that it remains in excellent condition. Only 367 units of this model were produced between 1973 and 1976, capable of reaching top speeds of 186 mph.
Documentation from Clapton’s original purchase is available, including papers confirming the vehicle’s delivery on Christmas Eve in 1974. The car retains its matching chassis, engine, and gearbox, with the numbers perfectly aligning with the original order sheets.
As the auction approaches, scheduled for April 13 at Bonhams during the Goodwood Members Meeting Auction, the listing boasts: “You could look wonderful tonight” in this iconic Berlinetta Boxer. With its impeccable interior featuring a black leather finish and a three-spoke steering wheel adorned with the prancing horse logo, this Ferrari promises to be a collector’s dream.
