1981 Ferrari 400 GTi Manual

The 400GT was a larger engined version of the 365GT4 2+2 that it replaced. The 4823cc V12 engine provided the new car with much-improved performance over its elder 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 400 GTi, one of only 31 right hand drive manual cars. was delivered to the UK in 1981 then exported to New Zealand in 1994 with 31,000km indicated, and has been enjoyed by one owner in NZ for the last 21 years. There is an exceptional history file with the car which details a recent extensive mechanical refurbishment by factory Ferrari trained technicians. Finished in Blue Sera Metallic with tan hide and blue leather inserts, a colour combination that is timeless and enhances the angular, early eighties Pininfarina design, the car is in stunning condition. The interior is immaculate and the combination of Dark Blue and Tan leathers with the Royal Blue carpet and that imposing Ferrari dashboard make this cabin a very special place to be. The bodywork is in excellent shape, the lovely blue paintwork sparkles, the glass is fine and the brightwork appears to have been looked after. The Cromodoras are unmarked and the engine bay is clean, tidy and stuffed full of V12 Ferrari. Sometimes you can look at a car and know from the way it stands that it is 'right', and this statuesque four-seat Ferrari gives out all the right signals.

The car is accompanied by its dedicated tools, handbooks, history file and a Ferrari car cover, A NOVA has been issued and it has recently been MoT'd.

These 400 Series Ferraris were essentially Grand Tourers but with its five-speed manual box, 311bhp and 1700kg this is no slouch, and a top speed of 150mph is possible. V12 Ferraris are becoming exceptionally difficult to source particularly really good 400s, and with only 43,000 miles covered and in this stunning condition this 400GTi should make someone very happy.