Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
ZFFJA09B000044231
Estimate:
$180,000 - $220,000 US
Following the lead of the 365 GT/4 BB and the 512 BB before it, Ferrari’s 512 BBi is considered to be the most livable of the Berlinetta Boxer family of Ferraris. The 512 BBi was introduced at the 1981 Frankfurt Salon with only minor cosmetic and mechanical changes made to the existing 512 BB form, namely exposed driving lights at the front and the addition of rectangular parking lights next to the exhausts at the rear. The major change was the replacement of the earlier model’s carburetors with a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection system.
Performance was exceptional, with a 0– to 60-mph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 174-mph. The fuel-injected engine of the 512 BBi boasted 20 foot-pounds of additional torque over its carbureted sibling, and it proved to be more tractable. The 512 BBi remained in production until 1984, and a total of 1,007 examples were produced by the time it was replaced by Ferrari’s next mid-engined, flat 12-cylinder model, the Testarossa.
This 1983 512 BBi, finished in Rossa Corsa with black Boxer trim and a tan interior and is equipped with the strong 4,942 cubic centimeter, 340 horsepower alloy horizontally opposed 12-cylinder engine with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection, five-speed manual transaxle, front and rear independent suspension with unequal length A-arms, twin rear coil springs, anti-roll bar, hydraulic dampers and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.
The well-presented Ferrari is reported to be sparingly driven and is in excellent condition all-around; along with displaying nice leather interior and “great paint.” This is reported as a survivor that runs and drives in a very nice manner. A radio with cassette and Pioneer graphic equalizer, air conditioning, factory knock-off alloy wheels, power windows, power steering and power four-wheel disc brakes contribute to this great car.
Regardless of many believing that post-Enzo era Ferraris will never be collectible, the 512 BBi proved that assumption to be incorrect, as they are quickly becoming collectible to the children of the era that are now adults, and revered their unique looks when they were new. They are exceptional cars that offer incredible performance and aggressive styling. This excellent Berlinetta Boxer is certain to provide enjoyment and excitement as the new owner becomes acquainted with this prized Ferrari platform.
