Ferrari 512 BBi Rosso Corsa

A collector’s item like no other: this Rosso Corsa gem comes directly from a French car collection filled with collectibles. However, there can only be one finest piece. Looking at the beautiful condition, low mileage, and complete history, we’re placing our bets on this Ferrari 512 BBi. This exceptionally beautiful classic was originally delivered by Ferrari dealer Radicci Automobili in Bari, Italy, and is renowned for its trendsetting mid-mounted V12 engine. Now, the Berlinetta Boxer is ready to embark on a new adventure anywhere in the world. Although we’d prefer to keep this rolling piece of art as close to us as possible…

History
On paper, it seemed like an impossible task to follow in the stylish footsteps of a legend like the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona.” In Maranello, they opted for the challenging route by breaking away from the familiar Ferrari formula with the 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer – or “BB” for short – introduced in 1973. For the first time in history, the Italian engineers moved the engine to a position behind the seats instead of in front of them. Of course, this was inspired by modern Formula 1 technology, but it was also done to continue offering stiff competition to Lamborghini. The advanced F1 technology was further applied as the model evolved, with Lamborghini following up the Miura with the Countach. The engine displacement received an upgrade, and the 512 BB was later renamed BBi after the debut of a new Bosch fuel injection system. Our example is originally from Italy, having been first registered at Ferrari Bari. France followed when a passionate collector set his sights on the 512 BBi. Now geographically moving up, the classic is being offered in the Netherlands. Can you already reveal its next destination?

Exterior
The Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer was not just a break from tradition; it symbolizes a seismic shift in the world of supercars. The styling followed the technology, as the BB was radically different from all other road-going Ferraris up to that point. Although the nose remained sharp and the front overhang was still prominent, the focus was clearly on the rear: the space behind the cabin was larger than ever due to the mid-engine configuration. Additionally, the headlights were divided into two separate segments, with the lower section housed behind glass and the upper part flipping up when in use. This feature would remain a staple in future Ferrari designs. Another characteristic of the BB is its two-tone bodywork, which emphasizes the car’s sleek profile. The lower part is black, and the upper part in this case is finished in Rosso Corsa. The 512 BB with the “i” designation stands out with slim indicators in the front bumper and fog lights in both the front and rear bumpers. The NACA air ducts on the sides, front lip spoiler, dual round taillights, and twin exhausts were introduced earlier on the BB without the “i.” Pay attention to details such as the Ferrari logos on the side mirrors…

Interior
From behind the Nero leather steering wheel, the angular dashboard immediately catches the eye, bearing a strong resemblance to that of the Testarossa, its successor. The same goes for the instrumentation, complete with orange lettering. Notably, the spokes of the steering wheel are also painted black, while the stitching in the leather provides a contrasting color. The iconic patches in the Daytona Style seats are, of course, part of the legacy from the Ferrari that preceded this Berlinetta Boxer. The seats are also upholstered in black leather. A noteworthy feature: the original Pioneer radio dates back to the BBi era and even includes an equalizer, which is neatly integrated separately on the left side of the dashboard. Toggle switches and other characteristic controls surround the beautifully milled shift gate of the 5-speed manual transmission, arranged in the iconic aluminum H-pattern. Welcome to the ’80s!

Technology & Performance
The Ferrari Flat 12 engine, bored out from 4.4 to 4.9 liters (though technically not a boxer), is a 180-degree flat engine that largely corresponds with the power unit in the younger Testarossa. In the 512 BBi, the naturally aspirated 12-cylinder engine produces 360 hp. Furthermore, the BBi benefits from the new Bosch K-Jetronic CIS fuel injection. Interestingly, the “512” designation not only refers to nearly 5.0 liters of displacement and 12 cylinders, but also to the first generation of Ferrari V12s used in the 1964 Formula 1 car, the 512 F1. Clearly, the rear-wheel-drive road car also drew inspiration from the pinnacle of motorsport in terms of performance…

Best regards,
Team Prins.