Introduced in 1976 as the successor to the 365 GT4 BB, the 512 BB (Berlinetta Boxer) refined the formula without losing the drama. Wider, more resolved aerodynamically and mechanically improved, it remains one of the purest expressions of Ferrari’s late-70s road cars — built before fuel injection, before ABS, before driver aids. Just engine, gearbox and courage.

The carburetted 512 BB is a very different proposition to the later 512 BBi. Where the injected cars are smoother and slightly more civilised, the carburetted BB is sharper, more aggressive and arguably more desirable among purists. Throttle response is immediate. The induction noise through the Webers is intoxicating. It feels mechanical and alive in a way few cars do today.

Compared to its contemporary rivals — Lamborghini Countach LP400/LP400S or Porsche 930 Turbo — the 512 BB is more resolved. Steering is communicative, the chassis balanced, and the flat-12 mounted low for a remarkably planted feel at speed.

Featuring a 4.9L flat-12 engine with four twin-choke Webers, the engine boasts a claimed 360bhp and 450nm of torque and capable of reaching a top speed of 280 km/h… yes, this is a 1970’s car!!

Of the 929 carburetted 512bb’s built between 1976 – 1981, the car presented here today is chassis #25291 and is finished in classic Rosso Corsa over black and has been in the current owner’s collection for around 10 years.

Vehicle History:

A UK delivered car and early history not known until purchased by an investor in 1988 and stored away for 10 years until Ferrari mechanic Philip Hughes, who at the time was working for DK Engineering, was tasked with retreiving the car and transporting it to DK Engineering for a full inspection and report. Philip performed the inspection and advised that as it had been sitting for some time, a major recommission including shock absorber rebuild and new tyres were required to make the car roadworthy and reliable. The owner decided not to proceed but instead sell the car to Philip in 1998 who then performed that work and enjoyed the car for a few years until he moved to Australia to establish a Ferrari workshop in Melbourne. The car followed in 2002 and lived with Philip in Melbourne bearing registration plates DRU184T until an offer was put forward, and accepted, by the current owner in 2004.

The current owner took delivery, the car was registered in NSW bearing registartion plates SB37AL and was entrusted to Sydney based Ferrari specialist Sal DiMauro who removed the engine and gearbox for a full rebuild including replacement of the sodium valves. For the next 20 years the car has been enjoyed sparingly as a part of a collection.

The car first came through our doors in 2023 needing a mechanical freshen up. A few months, and $45,000 later, the car now drives as good as it looks!

Works included:

• Major service
• Full suspension restoration and overhaul
• New brake master cylinder
• New battery
• New fuel sender unit
• Wheels restored and repainted in gold
• Comprehensive mechanical and electrical inspection with rectification as required
• New Michelin XWX tyres (215/70R15 front, 225/70R15 rear)

Chassis #25291 represents an opportunity to acquire a properly sorted, carburetted 512 BB with recent mechanical investment and long-term ownership history. These cars are increasingly recognised as one of the last truly analogue Ferraris — and values continue to reflect that.