The Ferrari 512 BB

Table of Contents:

Ferrari 512 BB – Key Details

The Ultimate Guide to the Ferrari 512 BB

WHAT MAKES THE FERRARI 512 BB TICK

As part of the BB (Berlinetta Boxer) line of cars, the Ferrari 512 BB served as the king of the brand from 1976 until 1981. As the model’s name implies, a 5-litre, 12-cylinder engine powers the Ferrari 512 BB. As most enthusiasts know, this naming convention actually broke with Ferrari tradition. Instead of the old cylinder volume style of naming, the litre-cylinder style had been inspired by the Dino line of cars.

As the second model in the Berlinetta Boxer line, the Ferrari 512 BB replaced the 365 GT4 BB that had debuted in 1973. That doesn’t mean everything was better, though. Thanks to those 1970s emissions controls, the 512 BB was actually down 20bhp to the GT4 BB. This, despite sporting an extra 500 ccs under the bonnet. That brought the total horsepower to just 360.  New was a dry sump lubrication system that kept the oil pressure up during hard cornering. This promised even more durability during hard track use.

DESIGN AND LEGACY

While the tubular steel chassis was unchanged from the 365, the exterior of the car received some attention. There was now a chin spoiler where previously there was nothing. Up front, the nose panel now sat slightly lower as well. Moving to the rear, the 365’s triple tail lights were replaced by larger twin units. The same goes for the exhaust pipes; out with the triple, in with the dual. After 6 years of production, Ferrari 512 BB was replaced by the fuel-injected 512 BBi in 1981. That model lasted until it was replaced by the Testarossa in 1984.

Ferrari 512 BB – Photo Gallery

Ferrari 512 BB – Technical Specifications

Ferrari 512 BB – Registry & Videos

If you enjoyed all this but want more, check out these additional resources.