Lot 225 - 1980 Ferrari 400i
| Lot Number | 225 |
| Registration | XIJ 400 |
| Chassis Number | 32017 |
| Engine Number | 32017 |
| Odometer reading | 75,145 miles |
| Result | Sold - £21,280 |
These magnificent 12 cylinder Ferraris have enjoyed cult status for some years now and the angular Pininfarina design was the motivating factor behind this front-engined masterpiece. The design was derived from the almost identical looking 365 GT4 2+2 which, itself, was based on the legendary Daytona. Production began in 1976 when Ferrari revealed its first car fitted with an automatic transmission, the 400, at the Paris Motorshow of 1976. The gearbox was a three-speed Borg Warner unit from the General Motors parts bin, reliable and certainly able to take the prodigious amount of power available. The injection version followed with Bosch K-Jetronics under the bonnet. The interior was lavishly appointed with rich leather, fine wood and high-end carpet and, together with the long-legged gearing and engine, made for excellent long distance touring. Today, its sleek lines and relatively limited production numbers have made good examples very collectable commodities.
This UK right hand drive Ferrari 400i was supplied new through Coopers of Leicester to a Mr Page on 20th August 1980. Finished in Grey Metallic with a blue leather interior, the car is an automatic, making it one of only 152 UK supplied cars in this configuration. Over the years and up to 62,876 miles the car has been maintained by Coopers, Graypaul, Modena, and Maranello Concessionaires.The paintwork is in good condition for a car of this age, and the body shows no signs of rust. The interior is much the same, with the leather seats remaining rip-free and the headlining presenting well. The wood on the centre console looks sharp and the original Philips 'Turnolock' radio is still present. The Bosch K-Jetronic injection has been refurbished by a Bosch specialist and, at the same time, service items completed. To enhance the engine appearance, the cam covers were removed and repainted.Supplied with a V5C registration document, its original bookpack containing the handbook and the original service book, this 400i is now showing 75,145 miles on the odometer and presents a good opportunity to purchase a rare home-market Ferrari at a realistic guide price.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.