1979 Ferrari 400i Coupe

The 400GT was a larger engined version of the 365GT4 2+2 that it replaced. The 4823cc V12 engine provided the new 400GT with much improved performance over its older sister. Later, the 400i would be introduced which would reduce emissions considerably, albeit at a cost of 30hp. All Ferraris built in this period were costly, low-production machines, based on increasingly complex tubular chassis frames and clad in hand-crafted body shells. These body shells had been styled by Pininfarina and were produced at the Scaglietti coach building works in Modena. The 400GT looks very similar to the car it replaced, the main differences being the lamps and spoiler. This model is perhaps best known for introducing automatic transmission to Ferrari customers for the first time.

This Ferrari 400i was first registered on 4th March 1979 and is finished in striking Blue coachwork with cream and blue leather seats and blue carpets. Having travelled fewer than 50,000 miles at time of cataloguing in the hands of only three owners, this is an often overlooked GT that delivers a real sense of occasion. Save for a small scuff to the front bumper and some very minor paint defects, the car is otherwise in really good order.

It has been maintained well throughout its life, being serviced by HR Owen of Greenford nine times in its first four years for its manufacturer recommended checks. In 1988 it went to Jones Auto Garage in London for £1,500 worth of repairs caused by what appears to have been a minor front-end collision that resulted in a panel and headlight flap repair plus some localised paintwork.

From past MoT certificates we can see that by 1998/99 the mileage was still just 45,133 so it has been used only sparingly in the past 15 years. It was given a full bill of health in 1999 by Corten-Miller Garages of Boston, Lincs after a £4,000 spend for miscellaneous checks and adjustments to fluids and hoses, oil and washers, Connolly hide cleaner, shock absorbers and door mirrors plus a radio & alarm were fitted.

Reported to run and drive without fault, it is now offered for sale at a sensible guide price with MoT test certificate to February 21st 2014, V5C registration document and original Ferrari instruction books, plus sales and service handbook, this is an enormous amount of Grand Touring Ferrari for a relatively modest outlay...

Service History:14/05/79 HR Owen, Greenford - 350 & 900 mile checks21/06/79 HR Owen, Greenford - 1900 mile check05/11/79 HR Owen, Greenford - 6000 mile check01/04/80 HR Owen, Greenford - 9500 mile check21/08/80 HR Owen, Greenford - 12500 mile check06/04/81 HR Owen, Greenford - 15000 mile check (at 13