1984 Ferrari 512 BBi

Having reasserted itself at the top of the supercar hierarchy with the first 'Boxer' - the 365GTB/4 BB - Ferrari went one better with its successor: the 512BB. 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 365GT/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 512BBi. 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 512BB 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.

First delivered in 1984 in California, this stunning Ferrari 512BBi is presented in the ever-popular combination of Rosso Corsa with Tan leather interior and Daytona seats. ‘A825 BKU’ impressively has a known history from new. After its first owner, the car was purchased by a Roger Pitts of Dana Point, California on 21 June 1984 when the car was just two years old. It would remain in his ownership for an impressive 32 years, spending most of its time in storage and used sparingly before it was sold to the current owner via Gullwing Motor Cars with just 15,788 miles on the odometer in February 2018.

After its purchase, the car was shipped to the UK and subsequently registered in June that year. Unfortunately, during its shipment, the service book was misplaced, but fortunately significant paperwork remains and due to its known history and low ownership, the mileage is believed correct. A new addition to a growing collection of impressive motor cars, the Ferrari would see further occasional use, with maintenance as required.

Now having been in current ownership for six years, the car has been subject to extensive engine works over the last two years with Meridien Modena, Lyndhurst to the tune of nearly £25,000. These recent works included the engine being removed, the cambelt and auxiliary belts replaced, a ‘top end’ overhaul including the cam-cover gaskets, along with numerous O-rings and seals replaced, the injection system overhauled and more. A complete bespoke exhaust system was also fabricated, the engine re-fitted, the car received a full service along with various fettling.

Having recently returned from its extensive works with Ferrari, the odometer still displays little more than it arrived in the country with, at c.16,000. Now ready for its new owner to enjoy, this low mileage, 3 owner from new car comes accompanied with a history folder containing the new 512BBi service record, numerous previous invoices and receipts, MOT certificates, the current V5C document and more.