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
*The perfect Ferrari for the whole family
*Classic Ferrari 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. '61717' was delivered new to Florida, arriving into the United States on April 7, 1986. Likely a grey market car, it was brought in by Shelton Ferrari and declared to meet US highway safety standards in August of 1986.

Finished in Rosso Corsa (red) with a tan and red leather interior, little is known about this car's history. Clearly a carefully ordered machine, its tan seats and door cards are contrasted by a red dash and center console that matches the exterior of the car. A racy Momo steering wheel wrapped in red leather gives this big Ferrari coupe a certain amount of sporting flare. The CARFAX report, while clean, only details the history of the vehicle up to 1993 when it was recorded as having 10,350 based on a New Jersey inspection. Acquired by the seller in 2013, the Ferrari has been on static display for the past 9 years and will require mechanical recommissioning before active use. As can be seen from the photographs, the rear suspension will require some attention lest one become a member of the Stance Nation.

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.