Description
1981 Ferrari 512 BB
s/n E102BB32685
Black with Tan Interior
The Boxer line represented a remarkable departure for Ferrari. It was the successor to the comparatively conventional Daytona, and Ferrari's first mid-engined flagship. Those who had witnessed Lamborghini`s stunning Miura had been anxiously awaiting Ferrari`s response, and the Boxer did not disappoint. Featuring a horizontally opposed twelve-cylinder motor longitudinally mounted inline with the transmission, it had a low center of gravity placed near the center of mass. Clothed in suitably rakish bodywork by Pininfarina, the Boxer was a stunner. The 512 BB represents the middle of the three developments of the Boxer line, combining the displacement of the 512 with the soulfulness of carburetors, as had been seen on the 365 BB. Today, the Boxer remains a dramatic and exciting car that is masculine without being too demanding to drive.
This particular car was imported and federalized in 1983 and remains an extremely low mileage car in excellent condition. It is the lowest mileage example we have seen in recent years, and perhaps one of the lowest mileage Boxers in existence, showing just over 2900 km. A recent inspection by Patrick Ottis confirmed that the mileage appears to be from new, and the remainder of the inspection revealed this to be a very fine mostly original example with excellent compression-between 190 and 200 psi on all twelve cylinders. The current owner has owned the car since 1986 and confirms mileage as well. In his care, the car has had its fluids changed annually, the timing belts and all hoses replaced in March of 2005. The car is not fitted with catalytic converters or other California emissions equipment at present, and we are thus offering this car as a 49-state car.
The car has been treated to a high quality repaint at some point and remains almost completely free of blemishes, with just a handful of extremely small marks. The glass and lights are excellent, though there is a small area of delamination at the bottom right corner of the windscreen. The wheels are in nice condition, though there is some chipping in selected areas. The wheels and tires are non-metric, making the replacement of tires much less problematic, while the knock-offs are a welcome change from the standard federalization equipment.
The interior is original and has survived well. The carpets are excellent, while the leather is good, with just some light creasing. It remains supple and is almost everywhere, including the rear shelf, seats, door panels, dashboard, and center console. The dashboard is pulling slightly, as is frequently the case on these cars, but does not need to be redone at this time by any means. All gauges work properly, including the clock, which even keeps proper time! Air conditioning is fitted but does not function at this time.
The engine compartment and front compartment are both extremely clean and reasonably well detailed. Much of the fasteners in the engine compartment and underneath have also been upgraded to stainless items, while the car appears to be otherwise original. The original washer bag is still fitted, and the original jack, jack bag, and tool suitcase with tools is still present. The workshop manual for the car is also included, and a cut-off switch for the battery has been installed in the front compartment.
The underside is extremely clean and attractive, having been recently detailed. The suspension parts have been refinished, and much hardware replaced. The front undertray is almost completely unmarked, and there is a neat skid to prevent driveways and humps from damaging the front spoiler.
This is an extremely unique opportunity to acquire a very low mileage Boxer in the United States. The black paintwork is a nice change from red and really suits the car, and the car is in wonderful excuse-free condition. As is the case with any car that has sat, there are a few areas requiring attention, though they are all quite minor. On the whole, this is a very sound example of these important and undervalued cars. Certainly at half the price of a Daytona and as Ferrari`s first mid-engined flagship, the Boxer is an excellent value and an important car that presents great potential for appreciation.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
Inquire About This Car
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608