1981 Ferrari 400i
The Ferrari 400 family, including the 365 GT4 2+2 and the 412i, were well ahead of their time when introduced in the late 1970s. Its calling card was a combination of angular styling by Pininfarina and a medium-displacement V12 sitting in front of a luxuriously appointed interior with room for four. It was also the first Ferrari to be offered with an automatic transmission. While this broadened the car's market appeal, it still sold in limited numbers. While its styling was divisive at the time, the 400 has aged beautifully to become one of Ferrari's most striking 2+2s while embodying the pinnacle of 80s styling. For 1979, carburation went to the wayside in favor of a more efficient Bosch fuel injection system. To combat power loss, displacement was also increased from 4.4L to 4.8L. These rare, highly collectible 2+2s have garnered a cult following in recent years, proving their value in the annals of Ferrari's history.
Owned and incredibly well maintained by Donald Osborne, this 1981 Ferrari 400i is an exceptional example finished in Blu Scuro over a Crema interior. It was imported to the USA and federalized when new. This included the installation of the federally regulated 85 mph speedometer- although this Ferrari handily exceeds that number- as well as the welded in panel to restrict the fuel nozzle to unleaded only. The 4.8L V12 performs flawlessly and sends approximately 315 horsepower through a then-revolutionary 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic gearbox. The transmission shifts smoothly through each gear while allowing the V12 engine to emit a noise so universally loved by Ferrari enthusiasts. There is a real thrill in ‘pegging’ the speedometer on a 12-cylinder Ferrari and having the car continue to press onward. The reward of feeling the kickdown in this automatic transmission with 12 cylinders providing the push is amazing. All this results in a fantastic grand touring car capable of transporting four adults and their luggage with the speed and luxury expected of a Ferrari 2+2. It has been well maintained and frequently driven throughout its current ownership, ensuring that this 400i is in turn-key condition and ready for whatever adventures await.
