THE EVOLUTION OF THE 275 GTB COMPETIZIONE Maranello experienced so much success in GT-class racing with the venerable 250 GT platform—from the Testa Rossa and California Spider through the Short-Wheelbase Berlinetta and the GTO—that Enzo Ferrari nearly took continued success for granted.

But the FIA threw a series of hurdles at the manufacturer that proved nearly as daunting as the competition.

First, the powerful 250 LM was denied GT homologation status due to its 275-specification engine.

The model was forced to run in the prototype category, where it was hopelessly outclassed.

The new 275 GTB model became the obvious foundation for continued attempts at GT racing, and during late 1964 Ferrari began work on a competition variant that shaved significant weight from the production version.

Again the FIA denied homologation status—this time claiming the car was too light in comparison to the standard production car.

After a political tug-of-war, Ferrari ultimately complied by buil...