1980 Ferrari 400i

Lot details
Registration No: OEF105W
Chassis No: ZFFEB06C000031275
Mot Expiry: Jan 2009

Introduced at the 1976 Paris Salon, the Ferrari 400 shared the same crisp Pininfarina styling and Type F101AL tubular steel chassis frame as its 365GT4 2+2 predecessor. Powered by an enlarged 4823cc 'quad-cam' V12 engine, the occasional four-seater featured all-round independent suspension (self-levelling to the rear), power-assisted recirculating ball steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Notable as the first Maranello product for which automatic transmission could be specified; the 400 also boasted such luxuries as Connolly hide upholstery, electric windows and optional air conditioning. Arriving during mid 1979, the 400i enjoyed greater refinement, lower emissions and better fuel economy thanks to its adoption of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection. Credited with some 310bhp and 289lbft of torque, the newcomer was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and 149mph. A true front-engined, rear-wheel drive V12 Ferrari from the old school, the 400i remained in production until 1985 by which time some 886 automatic variants had been sold (though, just 171 of these are thought to have been to right-hand drive specification).

Finished in metallic gold with brown leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, automatic gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (though, he notes that the battery has a tendency to go flat due to a faulty connection). Reportedly "owned for many years by a company principal who only used it on high days and holidays", 'OEF 105W' is understood to have been "maintained regardless of cost". As well as a repaint, the 400i is said to have benefited from "a new camshaft, £3,000 Ferrari replacement exhaust, refurbished wheels and fresh tyres". Exuding an understated elegance, this tempting Ferrari is offered for sale with a history file and MOT certificate valid until January 2009.