Ferrari pivoted away from a front-engine layout for its flagship 12-cylinder models at the start of the 1970s. To replace the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, Maranello engineers saw fit to mount a 4.4-litre flat-12 powerplant in the middle to create the “Berlinetta Boxer”—not a true boxer engine, with the pistons firing horizontally opposed, the “BB” nickname was derived from the Scaglietti bodywork drawing affectionate comparison to French actor Brigitte Bardot.

The new configuration neatly tied the 387 examples of the 365 GT4 BB produced to Ferrari’s motorsport exploits. The mid-engined 250 and 275 P, then the 250 LM, won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times in succession between 1963 and 1965 as the Scuderia’s Formula 1 cars adopted flat-12 motors.

Ferrari factory data (available to view on file) confirms that the left-hand-drive car offered here was delivered in July 1975 to supplying dealer, Auto Becker of Düsseldorf, Germany. While the “Berlinetta Boxer” was originally specified with Azzurro metallic paint, it is believed that the first owner sought a gloss black example. Unable to order one from the factory, he worked with his Ferrari Club President to purchase chassis 18577 and then have it resprayed while retaining the Beige leather upholstery and Blu carpets. This car was purchased by its second owner in 1978, when it was acquired by prominent French collector Marcel Petitjean, and it remained as part of his collection for the next 44 years. During this time, a set of wheels from the succeeding 512 BB were fitted.

Acquired by the consigning owner in February 2022, this example is offered for sale with a Ferrari folio containing the owner’s guide, plus jack, tool kit, and a spare parts catalogue dated to July 1974. The car will require recommissioning following a period of static display.

Benefitting from retaining its matching-numbers V-12 engine and classic Ferrari open-gate, five-speed transmission, this 365 GT4 BB is sure to appeal to marque enthusiasts.