When we think of actor Sylvester Stallone, the iconic character Rambo often comes to mind, alongside another favorite, Rocky. Rambo is famously associated with the Lamborghini LM002, a high-end vehicle that combines luxury with the powerful V12 engine from the Countach, perfectly mirroring Stallone’s on-screen persona.
Additionally, Stallone has a well-known appreciation for Ferrari. He has been spotted in various Ferrari models, including the striking 599 GTB Fiorano, which he was seen driving in Ibiza. Recently, a significant piece of history re-emerged: Stallone’s first supercar, the 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4, which he purchased used in 1984.
Limited Production
The 365 GTC/4 was revealed at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show with a mere 500 units made, primarily for the North American market. Replacing the 365 GT 2+2, it featured an impressive 4.4-liter V12 engine generating 340 hp paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. Despite its athletic design, it included rear seats suitable for children or short passengers, albeit foldable.
This particular model, chassis 15,471, once owned by Stallone, was delivered in a luxurious Oro Kelso hue with a beige leather interior. Its features included air conditioning, electric windows, and a speedometer in miles. The car was initially sent to Modern Classic Motors in Reno, Nevada, where it was picked up by its first owner.
A Star’s Connection
By the late 1970s, Stallone sold the car to Michael Ovitz, a significant figure in Hollywood known as the head of the Creative Artists Agency, whose clientele included Sylvester Stallone, Tom Cruise, and Steven Spielberg.
Stallone likely observed his agent’s gold Ferrari multiple times. Interestingly, shortly after purchasing it in August 1978, Ovitz repainted it black, upholstered it in black leather, and opted for chrome Borrani wire wheels instead of the original five-spoke alloys.
The Purchase in 1984
While Stallone enjoyed massive fame from his iconic roles in Rocky and Rambo, he finalized his purchase of the 365 GTC/4 in 1984, coinciding with the shoot of Rambo II. This decision appeared to be well thought out, avoiding the impulsiveness often found in celebrity car purchases.
He used the car frequently around California and properly maintained it at Hollywood Sports Cars, a renowned location for celebrity car upkeep.
The End of an Era
However, as the late 1980s approached, Stallone decided to sell the Ferrari, which subsequently changed hands among several car aficionados aware of its famous history before being purchased in 1992 by the father of its current owner.
Excitingly, this historic vehicle is set to go to auction on January 24. Experts at RM Sotheby’s anticipate it will fetch between 121,000 and 145,000 euros, which, while still quite a sum, is surprisingly lower than expected and marks a promising investment opportunity, likely to appreciate in value over time.