Ferrari first introduced the Berlinetta Boxer series of models in 1971 as a response to its mid-engine rivals, Lamborghini’s Miura and Maserati’s Bora. It was an entirely new car over the Daytona that preceded it, and whilst it was a radical departure from Ferrari’s more classical models, the 365 GT4 BB showed that Ferrari was willing to look to the future rather than rest on its past methods in order to produce a world-beating sports car. The Berlinetta Boxer was powered by a 4.4-litre, flat 12-cylinder engine which had been derived directly from Ferrari’s three-litre Formula One engine, and it would be the first Ferrari road car not to boast a V-configuration engine. Nevertheless, the flat-twelve proved to be an excellent powertrain for the BB, and it gave the car a wholly unique character amongst Ferrari’s model range.

Ferrari produced only 327 of the 365 GT4 BB, and they introduced its successor in 1976. This car was the 512 BB, and its primary improvement over its predecessor was its larger, flat 12-cylinder engine. As it was enlarged to 4.9 litres and topped with four triple-throat Weber carburettors, its performance was quite impressive. With a 0–100 km/h time in the mid-five second range and a top speed of nearly 280 km/h, the Boxer was a worthy successor to the 365 GT4 BB, and it was also an admirable competitor to Lamborghini’s new Countach.

This 512 BB, which was produced in October 1977, was sold new to Augusto De Megni through Pedini Auto, of Perugia, Italy, and it was originally finished in Rosso Chiaro (20-R-190) over a Beige interior (VM 3218). The car currently sports several interesting modifications, which give it a more aggressive impression overall and are reminiscent of components installed on the 512 BB Competizione. These include a lower front wing, wider rear wing flares, a revised front-hinged rear clamshell which had been installed in order to incorporate the 512 BB Competizione-style snorkels, and 288 GTO-style side-view mirrors. Wider rear tyres and wheels have also been fitted to the car, to give it even more of a muscular appearance. Inside, the dashboard has been re-trimmed and new seats with Daytona-style inserts have been fitted, along with four-point racing harnesses and a 328-style steering wheel.

To many, the 512 BB is the best iteration of the Berlinetta Boxer models, as it boasts the larger displacement engine, which is coupled with the tried-and-true Weber carburettors. The car’s modifications only add to the muscularity of this particular 512 BB, giving it a truly impressive street presence. This unique vehicle is perfect for the individual looking to stand out from the crowd.