In 1973, Ferrari introduced the road-going interpretation of its phenomenal 512 S endurance prototype racer. As showcased as the nemesis in Steve McQueen’s celebrated film Le Mans, the 512 was powered by a highly advanced horizontally opposed 12-cylinder engine. A derivation of the competition motor was soon integrated into Ferrari’s next flagship road car, which had been delayed with the popularity of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona.

Named for the displacement of a single cylinder, as well as its four-cam overhead valve actuation, the 365 GT4 BB was the progenitor of two decades of flat-12 production models, eventually culminating in the legendary Testarossa designs. In the short term, the model was the first of a family of berlinetta boxers with increasingly powerful engine specifications, none of which were ever federally approved for American road use without aftermarket conversion. The resulting rarity of the 365 GT4 among American collections has made the model particularly desirable among enthusiasts in the U.S., as has its throaty carbureted engine (which was later phased out for fuel injection). In any event, with only 387 total examples built, the first berlinetta boxer was rare by any measure.

Claiming overwhelming originality and factory certification, this beautiful 365 GT4 BB continues to benefit from nearly 40 years of care from a Japanese collector. The 342nd of 387 examples built, chassis no. 18635 was originally allotted for sale to a Mr. Jewelary in France, but the order was cancelled and the car was subsequently purchased by the Ishitoku Corporation in Tokyo. Completed in July 1975 with an exterior finished in Rosso Chiaro paint with a rare black leather interior, the berlinetta boxer was shipped in a specially built crate aboard the SS Nipponica and arrived in Yokohama in early 1976. It is believed that the car’s current paint finish in Blu Tour de France was applied early in its life, and was probably executed around this time.

The unique 365 GT4 remained under single ownership until 2011, when it was sold to a second private Japanese collector. Imported to the U.S. in mid-2015, the Ferrari was purchased by esteemed collector Charles Wegner of West Chicago, Illinois, and he retained the specialists at Dugan Enterprises to sympathetically freshen the car. In February 2016, the berlinetta passed to Dr. Daxes Banit, an orthopedic surgeon based in Warner Robins, Georgia, before being acquired by the consignor.

Currently displaying just 7,799 km of actual use, this well-preserved berlinetta boxer continues to display noteworthy originality, with matching date codes evident throughout the components, including the incredibly rare spare wheel (identical to the wheels that Ferrari used to transport its F1 team cars of the era). The GT4 has also been certified by Ferrari Classiche, who authenticates the originality of all the major mechanical elements, including the flat-12 engine with proper Weber 40 IF3C carburetors, the chassis, gearbox, and body. The suspension components are equipped to original specifications with proper shocks and pads, and the corners wear correct 15-in. Cromodora wheels.

Accompanied by a proper tool kit, jack, and manuals, this highly authentic 365 GT4 is documented with a history by marque expert Marcel Massini, and a copy of the original SEFAC purchase order. As a rare early example of the first iteration of Maranello’s important flat-12 road car, chassis no. 18635 would make a fantastic addition to any Ferrari-focused collection or modern sports car gathering.