1978 Ferrari 512 BB

Vehicle Description

1978 512BB

1 of 101 UK RHD

Ferrari Classiche Red Book

Introduced to the public at the Paris Motor Show in 1976 the 512BB was the successor to the 365BB which helped Ferrari reclaim its dominance against its domestic rivals in the early to mid 1970's. The new model offered greater performance with increased torque thanks to the enlarged capacity and the switch to dry sump was adopted. Belt driven twin overhead cams were unchanged but compression was raised from 8.8:1  to 9.2:1 and four Weber downdraught carbs fitted. Other refinements included a change from single plate mechanical clutch to a hydraulic twin plate clutch and revised gearing made the new model all the more enjoyable to drive. The original tubular steel chassis remained unchanged, independent suspsension all round, servo assisted disc brakes, twin fuel tanks with 120 litre capacity, and now having 9 inch rear wheels the rear track expanded by 40mm. A few changes to the body included a new chin spoiler for better handling at speed, revised rear lower apron, additonal louvres on the engine lid, and enhanced flared archres to house the new wheels. NACA ducts on each sill were also introduced for rear brake cooling and a more conventional twin exit exhaust either side replaced the triple outlets as seen on the 365, classic twin rear lights were also employed. The interior was largely unchanged with headrests and adjustability being added to the seats along with minor changes to switchgear and gauges. Options were few but included Metallic paint, a non two-tone option which was standard on the 365 and coloured seat inserts.

Chassis 23527

Rosso Rubino Metallic/Crema Daytona seats with black inserts

Delivered new by HR Owen on 16th March 1978 and retains its attache tool case, jack kit, and original service book/warranty card showcasing great early history by UK main dealers. In 2015 operating as an offical Ferrari Classiche Centre, Joe Macari carried out a complete restoration including extensive mechanical refurbishment, full new leather interior, and bare metal respray to original colour. An excellent history file accompanies the car with stamps, invoices from main dealers/specialists, and restoration work carried out. Early factory correspondence with delivery notes and spec also on file with this fantastic example.