The third version of Ferrari’s iconic Berlinetta Boxer was introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1981. The 512 BBi’s major change was the addition of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection to its flat-12 cylinder engine. The use of fuel injection did not diminish the 512’s power, but it did make it more available at lower rpms, along with increased torque. Rated at 340 brake horsepower, the BBi’s power was channelled through a five-speed manual rear transaxle; performance was managed by front and rear independent suspension with dual coil springs and anti-roll bars. The car sat solidly on a tubular semi-monocoque frame enveloped by a steel body. In terms of appearance, an intelligent leave-a-great-thing-alone approach caused minimal change in the 512 BBi from its predecessor. There were new rear fog lamps, new running lights in the grille and a shift to metric-sized Cromodora alloy wheels and tires.

Delivered on the 31st of January through the German Ferrari dealership in Regensburg, Auto König, chassis number 44661 has spent the majority of its life in Germany. It was delivered new to an individual residing in Frankfurt in 1983, remaining there until 1987. From there, the car spent one year in Bavaria and then Loerrach, and resided in Munich from 1988 to 1990. The car remained in storage with an owner in Germany from 1990 until 2015. When the car was brought out of storage after 2015, it was shipped to Mertel Italo Cars, the official Ferrari distributors in Nürnberg, where it received a major service and re-commissioning where it was brought back to running condition, which included replacing the timing belts. Shortly thereafter, the car was imported to the UK where it resides today.

Finished in traditional Rosso over a Nero leather interior, the car presents well throughout, showing just 69,700 km on its odometer. Considered to be the most liveable of Ferrari’s iconic Berlinetta Boxer models, owning a 512 BBi is a must for any collector, and this example would certainly be a thrill to drive and enjoy on the open road.