Ferrari 512 BBi

 

Featured here is not an original Ferrari 512 BB, but its updated version known as the 512 BBi. This updated version was in production from 1981 to 1984 and is powered by a mid-mounted 4.9-liter flat-twelve with 340 horsepower, 20 less than its predecessor, and 332 pound-feet of torque mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The launch from zero to 60 mph in the 512 BBi occurs in 5.4 seconds, while its top speed is rated at 174 mph. The BB part of this car's name stands for Berlinetta Boxer, while the "i" indicates a newer and improved fuel injection system over the original 512 BB. More specifically, the 512 BBi's fuel injection system is the Bosch K-Jetronic CIS, which generates more consistent performance and cleaner emissions than its predecessor. The 512 BBi also gains some minor exterior styling changes compared to the original 512 BB, such as a revised front grille with lower front running lights and a revised rear bumper with red fog lamps. 

Only 1,007 units of the Ferrari 512 BBi were ever built until it was replaced by the Testarossa in 1984. The 512 BBi was never officially sold in the US through Ferrari, but some examples were federalized for and imported to American shores around the time it was new, and it is now fully legal to import here. Those that do make it to the open market nowadays tend to sell for between $200,000 and $350,000. The example pictured here was on display at the Ferrari Concours show in Carmel that took place during Monterey Car Week last month and almost certainly the first 512 BBi and Berlinetta Boxer model in general that I have seen in person. Out of the vehicles I saw on display at the second car show I attended during the one day I traveled to the Monterey area for Car Week this year, this 512 BBi was one of the coolest and rarest cars that stood out to me the most. It may not be my absolute favorite Ferrari model, but the 512 BBi is undoubtedly a beautiful, amazing, and incredible classic Prancing Horse. Enjoy and stay tuned for the best of the rest from this year's Carmel Ferrari Concours show coming up next. 

Vehicle Specifications Sources: Classic.com, Supercars.net, Hemmings 

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