340bhp, 4,942 cc double overhead-cam horizontally opposed twelve-cylinder engine, Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, five-speed manual gearbox in rear-mounted transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, twin coil springs and front and rear anti-roll bars, and four- wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 98.4"

Ferrari introduced a stunning new mid-engine car at the 1971 Turin Motor Show to compete head-on with the Lamborghini Miura and Maserati Bora supercars. Developed from the ground up, the new model featured a low, wide, sensuous Pininfarina design and a hand-built body by Scaglietti. Reminiscent of Ferrari's Formula 1 racers, it was powered by a mid-mounted 'boxer' twelve-cylinder engine, displacing 4.4-liters. The new model, named 365 GT4 BB, was finally released as a production car in 1973, and was marketed as the fastest road car ever offered by Ferrari.

In keeping with tradition, the car was relentlessly refined, and an improved version was released in 1976 as the 512 BB, with an enlarged engine and significantly more torque. In 1981, Ferrari introduced the 512 BBi at the Paris Salon, with the 'i' reflecting the installation of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, allowing easier compliance with U.S. emissions standards. The 512 BBi was capable of remarkable performance, with zero-to-sixty times of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of at least 175 mph.

The 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi offered here is a very fine and attractive example, originally manufactured in March 1983 and imported to the United States by Ferrari of Houston. At present, the car shows just over 10,250 miles, and remains a very well preserved and maintained example. The dramatic exterior features an excellent black finish, virtually flawless bodywork, and a set of original five-spoke alloy wheels with wide Michelin performance radial tires. Meanwhile, the cockpit is trimmed with black leather upholstery and carpeting, revealing few signs of use. Passenger amenities include air conditioning as well as an original-appearing Pioneer AM/FM cassette stereo system, graphic equalizer, and speakers. The rear bonnet tilts up to reveal the impressive V12 'boxer' engine, and the entire engine bay remains very presentable, original, and well-maintained in its appearance.

With its stunning presence, very capable chassis and drive train, and positively intoxicating exhaust note, the 512 BB offers an exceptional ownership experience. While time and lack of maintenance have steadily reduced the number of excellent 512 Berlinetta Boxers available, the opportunity to acquire a wonderful, well-maintained example such as this has become both increasingly rare and correspondingly more desirable.