Ferrari’s 400i was introduced in 1979 as the successor to the 400. The “i” suffix signified the car’s Bosh K-Jetronic fuel-injection system, which replaced the triple Weber carburettors found in the earlier model. Pininfarina’s styling was less dramatic on the 400 than on Ferrari’s of the past, but that didn’t seem to faze customers at the time, as there has always been a market for elegant four-seater Ferrari grand touring cars.

Of course, Ferrari produced the 400i in two variants, like the original 400. These were the 400 GTi, which boasted a five-speed manual transmission, and the 400i Automatic, which was equipped with a three-speed automatic. The 400i was often ordered by individuals looking to use their cars as daily drivers or by those looking for a more luxurious driving experience. Other than their transmissions, both cars were identical in nearly every fashion.

According to the factory warranty card that accompanies the car, this particular 400i Automatic was delivered new to Rudolf von Däniken, of Balsthal, Switzerland, through Autodino AG, of Zürich, Switzerland, on 8 January 1982. By February 1995, the car was registered with another owner in Brittnau, Switzerland, and it is believed that the car has remained within Switzerland ever since. Today, the car is in truly exceptional condition for a 400i. The interior shows almost no signs of wear whatsoever, and the paint is just as exceptional. The odometer currently shows just under 26,500 kilometres, all of which are original and confirmed by dated service tickets with the car. It is also important to note that this car comes with a full set of books and manuals, a factory tool kit, and its original jack.

The 400i has always had a keen following of enthusiasts looking for understated luxury combined with traditional Ferrari V-12 power. The Automatic model is a wonderful highway-cruiser for four, and it is the perfect car for those looking to enjoy the finer points of Ferrari ownership with the whole family. It is very rare to find a 400i Automatic in this condition, and this example is without a doubt one of the finest we have ever seen, as it truly has everything. As this car is in absolutely impeccable condition, it is not to be missed.