4,943 DOHC V12
Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection
318bhp at 6,000rpm
3-Speed GM Turbo Hydramatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Delivered new to Florida
*Under 6,400 original miles
*Elegant color scheme
*The ultimate Gentleman's Express

THE FERRARI 412

Produced between 1985 and 1989, the Ferrari 412 was the final glorious flowering of the '400' series of luxurious four-seaters that had commenced with the introduction of the 365GT/4 2+2 in 1972. The latter was the first four-seat Ferrari to enjoy the benefits of the quad-cam V12 engine, as signified by the '/4' suffix. The new 2+2 was based on the short-lived 365GTC/4, using a similar chassis and a wet-sump version of the 4,390cc Daytona engine coupled to a conventional five-speed gearbox rather than the Daytona's transaxle.

Launched at the 1976 Paris Salon, the 400GT gained a 4.8-liter version of the four-cam V12 engine, but otherwise differed from its immediate predecessor only in detail. Following successful experiments carried out by engineers in the USA the 400 became the first Ferrari to offer automatic transmission as an option. Flagship of the Maranello range, the splendidly equipped 400GT featured self-levelling independent rear suspension, power-assisted steering, electric windows and optional air conditioning. Its arrival re-affirmed Ferrari's determination to compete with the world's finest luxury saloons, though the car's biggest potential market - the USA - remained effectively closed to it because of safety and emissions legislation. Even after it received Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection in 1979, the model - now re-named '400i' - remained effectively a Europe-only car.

Representing evolution rather than revolution, the 412 debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 1985. The newcomer enjoyed a small (119cc) capacity increase, anti-lock brakes, revised interior and bumpers color coordinated with the bodywork, while an improved front air dam and raised boot deck reduced the 412's already low co-efficient of drag by around ten percent. By the time production ceased in 1989, Ferrari's finest 2+2 had been in production for a remarkable 17 years, though its exclusivity meant that there were seldom more than 200 sold in any one year.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Ferrari's decision to equip the 400 series with automatic transmission was vindicated by the fact that more than two-thirds of customers took up the option. '65505' was delivered new to Florida, arriving into the United States on December 22, 1986. Likely a grey market car, it was brought in by Shelton Ferrari and declared to meet US highway safety standards in July of 1987.

Finished in Marrone metallizzato with a tan leather interior, a mere 6,400 original miles are indicated on the odometer. The clean CARFAX report shows the car lived in Florida for the majority of its life, leaving only after being acquired by current owner in 2008. The Ferrari has been on static display for the past 14 years and will require mechanical recommissioning before active use. As can be seen from the photographs, the rear suspension will require some attention unless one is inclined to praise the lowered.

A true executive express, this is the perfect Ferrari for a burgeoning Tifosi—especially if they are unburdened by the ability to drive a stick.