When it comes to Ferraris, there’s always a model in the lineup that is the car to have. The one that all the Ferrari VIPs get a heads-up is coming before it’s ever released for public sale. And while the model and its general shape and layout have changed over the years, there’s no denying that there is always such a model. In the year 1984, a few years prior when it was introduced, the Ferrari 512 BB was the car to have, and this one listed here on the Gooding & Company website is made even more desirable for being one of just under 1,000 carbureted models with around 7,160 miles.
While the 308 is the quintessential Ferrari, it becomes instantly clear that the 512 BB is a very different animal. They may look similar, but the 512 is significant wider and stubbier, if you will. Though some may say the 308 is a more graceful design, the 512 just reeks of exclusivity. It doesn’t matter which model or make it is, if a wider version is offered from the factory via a completely different body or wide fenders or fender flares, the car just instantly seems more sporting and powerful. And with a flat-12 hiding between those bulbous rear fenders, the 512 has power in spades.
The 512 BB is sought after for numerous reasons, but it wouldn’t be too long before an “I” was added to the name, indicating it now came with fuel injection. The 512 BB with its triple-choke Weber carburetors pushed out 360 b.h.p. at 6,200 RPM and 333 lb.-ft. at 4,600 RPM, screaming along to a top speed of 180 miles per hour and a 0-60 run of about 5 seconds. Totally average by today’s standards, but pretty monumental in the early 80s. Our subject car is exceedingly clean inside and out, with those iconic Ferrari patterned leather seats, gated shifter, and three-spoke wheel all reminding you what kind of car you’re in.
With its low miles, recent engine-out servicing, and complete assortment of books, manuals, and tools, the 512 BB is correct in every way. Though the likes of the F40 and Testarossa are more recognizable and the allure of the vintage 60s racers impossible to ignore, the 512 BB is the car for those of us who grew up in an era where widebody fenders and fat wheels and tires were the norm. The 512 BB as shown here will sell for a very strong umber, with Gooding estimating between $250,000 and $300,000 when it rolls across the stage at the Amelia Island Auctions.o
I thought all models of 83&84 were FI and called 512i. The early models carbs with no chokes and not easy to start. Then again what do I know?
I would to own an 84 BB 512i.
I thought it would be way more than $300k.
Ferrari, etc. could have learned a thing or 2 on how to design wipers – from many ’60s & ’70s US/Canadian cars – especially hidden ones – 2 versions on Corvettes, & even on the Bricklin SV1.
Destined to go under the gavel on March 6, 2025
http://www.youtube.com/ratarossa is rebuilding one of these now. Epic build!
I have a 1990 VHS tape by C&D mag titled “Ten Top Exotic Cars” w/an interview of Carrol Shelby. In it they interview regular people driving/owning the 10 cars.
1) Corvette ZR1
2) Acura NSX
3) Ferrari F40
4) Lambo Countach
5) Shelby Cobra 289 & 427
6) Porsche 911 turbo
7) BMW M1
8) Lotus Espirit turbo
9) Ford GT40
10) Ferrari BB512 & Testarossa
Sorry but this car is waaaay more beautiful than the “MagnumPI” Ferrari.
Rumour has it that it was so beautiful they wanted to call it the Brigette Bardot…so is that what BB means or Berlinetta Boxer??
My pal had one , no plates as he couldnt get it registered in Ca.We took it out at the dead of night for some “fun” runs. We stopped to gas it up…..dead battery..can you imagine push starting a flat 12 , 5 litre Ferrari???? Well we did ..and away we went..carful never to rurn it off til kit was tucked away again.Eric Clapton is a huge fan and has two or three including one he wrecked.Ferrari recently built home a one off version on a modern chassis…the EC
Ever try to get in and out of one of these? Might be fine if you are a short little tiny Italian, but a big John Wayne type Scandinavian Midwesterner? I am an American, proud of it. Give me American cars every time.
At least they aired up the tires, and washed it. After they pulled it out of the barn.
The only thing this car lacks, is a tan dashboard. Very nice.
One of my favorite Italian cars …
Hate the stupid 85 mph speedometer thanks to Jimmy Carter!
sold $238,000