1982 Ferrari 512 BBi

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 any mid-engine set-up, 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. The Bosch fuel injected BB 512i was introduced in 1981 and was the very last of the series. The fuel injected engine produced cleaner emission and offered a better balance of performance and daily drivability.This left-hand drive car is one of only 1,007 512 BBi's produced by Ferrari and formed part of a significant Japanese collection until 2013. The service booklet shows 4 service stamps in Japan and a letter from Tony Willis of Maranello Concessionaires Archive confirms the engine and chassis numbers.The current owner imported the vehicle on 15th July 2013 and sent it immediately to Ferrari marque specialists QV London for a major service. A UK HMRC letter confirms that all taxes and duties have been paid on this vehicle and it is ready for registration in any country. Bidders that require specific mechanical details can contact QV London for an overview or general discussion. A full independent condition report will be available from QV London and this can be viewed at the auction or emailed to international bidders.Finished in the famous BB two-tone combination of Rosso Corsa with Nero lower section, this BBi is presented in fine order. The bodywork is free from any visible corrosion and the paint is still in lovely order. Fire up the 12 cylinders and the engine simply comes to life with an instant howl from a stunning stainless exhaust system. The interior is a wonderful place to be. The black leather seats are fresh, blemish-free and everything from the dash to the prominent gearbox to the instruments retain an exotic 1970s feel. The engine bay is as clean as any 512 BB we have seen. In total the car has covered a believed to be genuine 37,000 kilometres (22,990 miles) from new. The current owner has spared no expense on the maintenance and general upkeep of this car. Complete with owner's manuals, service book and Ferrari Wallet, this 512 offers a genuine investment opportunity, as collectors are starting to see the value in these first series of Ferrari mid-engined 12 cylinder road cars. In fact, prices even in the last year have showed continued bullishness. This is because BBs are being pulled up in value by proceeding models, such as its older brother, the Ferrari Daytona.