1979 Ferrari 512 BB

The Ferrari 512 BB was the second generation of the 365 GT4 BB to have the 12 cylinder boxer engine. Enzo Ferrari, contrary to his engineer's wishes, had delayed the introduction of a mid-engine car, doubting the ability of his customer base to handle this configuration. The capacity was increased to nearly five litres and a dry sump fitted, then with suspension changes and various modifications Ferrari was back at number one in the supercar pecking order. The competence of the 512 BB was re-iterated by the world's motoring press as many of them proclaimed this Ferrari as the best all round Sports GT of the day in 1976.

This original UK right-hand drive 1979 Ferrari 512 BB, was delivered new to Maltin Car Concessionaires Limited of Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire on 4th July 1979. The earliest documents in the history file show the Ferrari Modena Warranty Card, signed by Innes Ireland, and the very first service stamp shows that work was carried out on 19th September 1979.

The first owner was a Mr George Williams of Norfolk, who registered the car in his company name. Despite a number of keeper changes from the company to Mr Williams, the car remained in his possession until 1995, when it was purchased by Serruys Property Company and shortly after moved to a dealer called David Wainwright of Leicestershire. He sold the car to Peter Harris Limited in 1997 and a large amount of work was carried out on the Boxer at this time. This 512 BB then found its was to a Mr Jeremy Holmes of Dinas Powys, Wales via Talacrest in January 2001. He had some work carried out by Bob Houghton in 2004, which included a full engine inspection, carburettor rebuild, cambelts, clutch, replacement of gaskets and a suspension rebuild. Between 2005 and 2014 the car was taken off the road with the intention of undertaking a full restoration, however, the project was never completed.

In January 2015, chassis number 27863 was delivered to marque experts, Foskers Engineering in Kent for restorative works. Most amazingly, at this time the odometer reading was only 15,660 miles and based on a large number of previous MoT certificates and service stamps, we believe this mileage to be genuine. Recent work has included a full strip to bare metal and repaint in the original colour of Blu Dino Metallizzato. The blue over cream interior is original and has been Connolised, and the car will be fully serviced with a cambelt change prior to coming to the auction.

Other than the superb overall condition, one of the most important aspects of this vehicle is the fantastic history file. There is a vast array of original documentation, from early correspondence, service invoices and old MoT certificates. In addition, the original cloth wallet, service book, manuals, sales paraphernalia and jacking kit are also supplied. This collection of documents is a fantastic record of the life of this Ferrari and we urge all potential buyers to come and take the time to inspect the file carefully.

A Foskers condition report will be made available at the auction and we welcome independent inspections prior to the sale. A mere 929 512 BB models were manufactured between 1976 and 1981, of which only 101 were in right-hand drive form. Chassis number 27863 represents an unrepeatable opportunity to invest in a highly collectable, restored Ferrari that boasts both low-mileage and an impeccable history.