1981 Ferrari 512 BB Coupé

• One of only 929 512 BB models produced
• One of the most capable supercars of its era
• In the same ownership for over 30 years


Having reasserted itself at the top of the supercar hierarchy with the first 'Boxer' - the 365 GTB/4 BB - Ferrari went one better with its successor: the 512 BB. For the new Boxer, Ferrari abandoned its long-standing practice of denoting a model by the capacity of an individual cylinder and adopted the Dino-type nomenclature where '512' indicates 5 litres/12 cylinders. Displacement was increased by enlarging both bore and stroke, while in addition the compression ratio was raised and dry-sump lubrication adopted. The result of all these changes was a useful increase in torque which, coupled with revised gear ratios, made the 512 more tractable.

Changes to Pininfarina's inspired coachwork were, not surprisingly, few. The running gear likewise came in for only minor revision while the already excellent all-round ventilated disc brakes remained unchanged. Inside, the 512 remained virtually the same as before but for the welcome adoption of multi-way adjustable seats in place of the fixed originals. Road & Track magazine had achieved a speed of 175mph (280km/h) in the preceding 365 GT/4 BB, and although lack of road space prevented the discovery of their test 512's capability, Ferrari's claimed maximum of 188mph (302km/h) was felt entirely realistic.

In 1981 the model was updated with Bosch fuel injection, becoming the 512 BBi. Once again, maximum power remained unchanged but there was more available at lower revs and torque increased still further. Possessing an engine directly related to Ferrari's contemporary Formula 1 unit, as well as being both lighter and faster than the legendary Daytona, the 512 BB was one of the most capable and exciting supercars of its era and is still capable of providing all the thrills that an enthusiastic owner-driver could wish for.

One of only 929 512 BB models produced by Ferrari, the example offered here is described by our vendor as in beautifully unrestored condition. Although the first owner was an American and the Ferrari remained in the USA for many years, it is believed it is an European car. The most recent owner had the car for almost 30 years in a large Ferrari collection and has taken very good care of it. The bodywork is said to be very nice, with neatly fitting panels and beautiful paintwork, around 75% of which is still believed to be original. The gaps are consistent everywhere, while the lighting lenses and other details such as rubber mouldings, mirrors, and windows are said to be in good condition.

Boasting Daytona-style cognac-coloured leather seats, the original interior likewise is described as in good condition, possessing a lovely patina. The carpeting and door cards are said to be well preserved, as is the dashboard. Light brown dominates, with nostalgic black gauges with orange numbers and needles, and it is reported that everything functions properly, including the factory-fitted air conditioning.

In the vendor's own words: "Driving the Ferrari is simply fantastic, a sensation in fact. Everything about the car is in good condition, including the braking system and the suspension, providing a confident feeling when driving at higher speeds. As if you're strapped to the front of a rocket, the 512BB takes off with breathtaking acceleration. The sensation and experience of the power combined with the howling twelve-cylinder right behind the occupants are simply magnificent. The intake sound of the six Weber carburettors is phenomenal and is complemented by a fantastic exhaust sound. The steering responds to every minimal input you make, and the car instils incredible confidence. It's simply amazing what Ferrari managed to achieve almost 50 years ago." The car has a US title but the EU taxes have been paid.