Ferrari, a name synonymous with speed, luxury, and innovation, has been producing some of the world’s most desirable sports cars since its inception in 1947. Although primarily known for their sleek coupes and convertibles, there have been occasions when Ferrari ventured into the realm of shooting brakes. Let’s explore the brief history of these unique Ferrari models.

The term “shooting brake” originated in Britain during the early 20th century, where it described a wooden-bodied wagon used by wealthy hunters to carry their game and hunting equipment. Over time, it evolved to describe a sporty car that combines practicality and performance in a two-door wagon body style.

1. Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 Shooting Brake (1968)

The first genuine Ferrari shooting brake wasn’t an official Maranello production model but rather a custom creation built on the chassis of the 330 GT 2+2. Designed by Italian coachbuilder Vignale in collaboration with New York importer Luigi Chinetti Jr., this shooting brake featured a squared-off rear end with elongated windows, epitomizing a radical departure from traditional Ferrari designs.

2. Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Shooting Brake (1975)

The next example came from another partnership between Luigi Chinetti Jr. and designer Gene Garfinkle. They modified a Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona by adding angular rear bodywork featuring gullwing-style glass panels for additional cargo space and unique aesthetic appeal. The result was both unmistakable and highly controversial – an excellent representation of a bespoke Ferrari shooting brake.

3. Ferrari FF (2011 – 2016)

Marking the return of Ferrari’s involvement in shooting brakes after almost four decades, the FF (Ferrari Four) was introduced as an all-wheel-drive grand tourer designed for those who sought both superior performance and practicality. The FF featured V12 power capable of pushing the car to a top speed of 208 mph, making it one of the fastest production four-seaters ever made. The use of a hatchback design provided ample cargo space, ensuring the FF lived up to its shooting brake credentials.

4. Ferrari GTC4Lusso (2016 – present)

The GTC4Lusso replaced the FF as Ferrari’s luxurious grand tourer. Building on the successes of its predecessor, it offered more power, greater efficiency, and improved aerodynamics. This elegant four-seater is equipped with a front-mid V12 engine and all-wheel drive, continuing Ferrari’s commitment to delivering peak performance and unmatched versatility in their shooting brakes.

In conclusion, while Ferrari has predominantly focused on building sports cars and grand tourers throughout its history, it has occasionally dabbled in creating high-performance shooting brakes for enthusiasts seeking ultimate luxury and practicality combined. These rare models showcase the breadth of Ferrari’s design capabilities and remain a fascinating chapter in the brand’s storied history.