Ferrari 400i

 

The 400i is an updated version of a lesser-known classic Ferrari front-engine V12 grand tourer. Produced from 1979 to 1985, the 400i replaced the carbureted 400 and is powered by a 4.8-liter V12 with 310 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque paired to a three-speed automatic sending power to the rear wheels. It launches from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and is capable of a top speed of 140 mph. The 400i's biggest and most notable revision over the original 400 is a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, which was added primarily due to more stringent emissions regulations across the globe at the time it was new. The change from carburetors to fuel injection also led to the 400i producing 30 less horsepower than its predecessor. Other significant aspects of the 400i include pop-up headlights above the visible fog lights, a singular hood vent, its grille located below the front bumper, a quad exhaust setup with catalytic converters and other minor modifications, a somewhat roomy upscale 80s interior with backseats, and a trunk with a decent amount of cargo space. 

Only 1,305 total units of the 400i were built, 833 of which were paired with an automatic transmission, before Ferrari replaced it with the 412 in 1986. On average, the Ferrari 400i currently sells for around $50,000 on the resale market. I saw this particular 400i at this month's local Porsche Club Cars and Coffee on Saturday, and it was purchased about a month ago by a friend of mine in the local car community. I do not remember the last time I saw a 400i in person or if I had ever seen one up close before recently, but it was certainly the rarest, most unique, and most unusual car to appear at the first automotive event I attended this November. While it may not be the most well-known, iconic, or head-turning, the 400i is definitely a beautiful, rare, and underappreciated classic Ferrari that I am proud to have recently seen at a local cars and coffee. Enjoy and stay tuned for more from this month's local Porsche Club Cars and Coffee coming up next. 

Vehicle Specifications Sources: Classic.com, Car and Driver, Ferrari 

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