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The 1981 Ferrari 512 BB represents a significant era for the Italian marque, being one of the final carbureted examples of the legendary Berlinetta Boxer series. This particular car, finished in striking Rosso Corsa over a Nero lower body with a beige leather interior, has been under the care of the selling dealer’s family for over three decades. Originally located in Europe, it was imported to the US in 2004. Following a period of static display, it has undergone recent servicing, including a timing-belt replacement, ensuring it is ready for its next custodian. As one of only 929 carbureted 512 BBs produced between 1976 and 1981, this Ferrari offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Maranello’s flat-12 heritage.
Potent Flat-12 Performance: The heart of this 1981 Ferrari 512 BB is its 4.9-liter F102B flat-12 engine, featuring aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts per bank, dry-sump lubrication, and quad triple-barrel Weber carburetors. This engineering masterpiece was factory rated at 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, delivering exhilarating performance and a distinctive engine note. Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle and a limited-slip differential, providing an engaging and authentic driving experience. Recent servicing in January 2025 included a crucial timing-belt service, along with the replacement of tensioner bearings and accessory belts, ensuring the engine is in optimal running condition. The coolant expansion tank was also replaced, and the coolant and oil were flushed and changed.
Pininfarina Design: The Berlinetta Boxer, styled by Pininfarina’s Leonardo Fioravanti, is a design icon. This 512 BB features aluminum for the front and rear clamshells and door panels, while the lower panels are constructed from lightweight fiberglass. The cabin section utilizes steel paneling, paired with a robust tubular chassis. Although never officially offered in the US market, this example was imported and federalized via the gray market. Its Rosso Corsa paintwork is complemented by Nero lower bodywork, along with signature features such as pop-up headlights, fog lights, a front spoiler, NACA side ducts, and quad exhaust outlets.
Refreshed Interior: The beige leather interior of this 512 BB was refreshed in the mid-1980s, maintaining a classic and inviting ambiance. Cabin appointments include a gated dogleg shifter, a hallmark of Ferrari’s manual transmissions, along with air conditioning for comfort, a cassette stereo for period-correct entertainment, and power windows. The leather-wrapped MOMO steering wheel frames Veglia instrumentation, including a 320-km/h speedometer and a tachometer with a 7,000-rpm redline, accompanied by auxiliary gauges extending to the center of the dashboard. The five-digit odometer displays 31,000 kilometers (approximately 19,000 miles).
Chassis and Brakes: This 512 BB rides on center-lock 15-inch Cromodora wheels, which were fitted with new Michelin tires in preparation for the sale, ensuring optimal grip and handling. Stopping power is provided by disc brakes at each corner, offering reliable braking performance. The brake fluid was also flushed following the selling dealer’s acquisition, ensuring the system is in good working order.
Summary:
- 1981 Ferrari 512 BB (one of 929 carbureted examples)
- 4.9-liter F102B flat-12 engine (340 HP, 332 lb-ft torque)
- Five-speed manual transaxle with limited-slip differential
- Rosso Corsa exterior with Nero lower bodywork
- Beige leather interior (refreshed in the mid-1980s)
- Timing-belt service performed in January 2025
- New Michelin tires fitted
- Recent replacement of coolant expansion tank and belts
- Coolant and gearbox oil changed
- Air conditioning and cassette stereo
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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