In 1981, Ferrari added fuel injection to the 4.9-liter, horizontally opposed 12-cylinder engine that powered their top-of-the-range 512 BB model, resulting in the more advanced 512 BBi. The change from carburetors to fuel injection brought about an increase of 20 pound-feet of torque, helping the engine to feel much more tractable overall. Performance remained extraordinary, and the 512 BBi could reach 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds; furthermore, it was capable of a top speed of 173 mph. It was the “flagship” Ferrari while in production and easily lived up to the supercar requirements of the era. Just 1,007 examples of the BBi were made through the end of the model’s production run in 1984.

CHASSIS NUMBER 40371

Records supplied by Ferrari Classiche show this 512 BBi was completed in April 1982 and delivered new to the famous French dealer, Charles Pozzi SA. The car’s early history is unknown, although it was evidently imported to the United States around 1995.

In late 2010, it was acquired by a noted North Carolina collector then indicating approximately 4,800 miles. He immediately submitted the car to a thorough $22,000 engine-out recommissioning by the esteemed specialists at Bob Smith Coachworks in Gainesville, Texas. Immediately, afterwards, this 512 BBi was handed off to Ferrari of Houston for an additional $20,000 of sorting in pursuit of peak performance and presentation. It was then successfully certified by Ferrari Classiche in April 2014, confirming the presence of the car’s numbers-matching engine and gearbox.

Mileage records indicate a consistent but very small upward trend since 2014; evidently none of the car’s previous owners wished to be responsible for any significant effect upon its splendidly original state of presentation. Very carefully enjoyed during the consignor’s ownership, it was notably treated to an engine-out belt service and maintenance regimen in January 2019, then indicating 5,075 miles.

As presented today, this 512 BBi retains many of its factory-correct finishes throughout, including its Rosso Corsa paintwork, supremely rare Nero Stoffa “Zegna” upholstery from designer Ermenegildo Zegna, Pioneer audio system with equalizer, distinctive French-market amber Cibie foglamps, and Vitaloni mirrors. The car’s correct center-mount wheels and Michelin TRX tires are yet another authentic complement to its low stated mileage and Ferrari Classiche certification. With its stunning presence, very capable chassis and drivetrain, and positively intoxicating exhaust note, the 512 BBi offers an exceptional ownership experience.