1984 Ferrari 512 BBi | PRICE ON APPLICATION
- Aug 6
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 25
THIS MOTOR CAR
Introduced in 1973, Ferrari's Berlinetta Boxer (BB) bridged the gap between the front-engine V12 365 GTB/4 "Daytona" and the 1980s Testarossa. Designed by Pininfarina to compete with the Lamborghini Countach, the BB marked the start of Ferrari's mid-engined, flat-12 lineage—an engine based on successful racing engineering, evolving from the 1964 Ferrari 512 Formula One car.
The 512 BBi, introduced in 1981, represented the final evolution of the Boxer line. Featuring Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection to reduce emissions while maintaining power output, only 1,007 examples were built between 1981 and 1984. Today, it stands as one of the most collectible Ferrari supercars of the 1980s—a flat-12 legend with analogue charm and increasing rarity.
This handsome European-specification example, finished in Rosso Corsa over Beige leather, was imported from the UK and first registered in Hong Kong in January 1989. Having just completed a comprehensive mechanical restoration in 2023, it presents as a fully sorted, turnkey example of this iconic Ferrari.
Year: 1984
Body: 2-Door Coupe
Exterior: Rosso Corsa (black bottom section vinyl-wrapped)
Interior: Beige Leather
Driver's Side: RHD
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Indicated Mileage: 8,672 Miles
Location: Hong Kong
Registration: Hong Kong Registered, 4 Previous Owners
License Mark: BB5121 included in sale
IN SHORT: THE FLAT-12 LEGEND
The Ferrari 512 BBi represents a pivotal moment in Ferrari's history—the final iteration of the Berlinetta Boxer line before the Testarossa took over. Its flat-12 engine, mounted longitudinally amidships, delivers a character unlike any other Ferrari: a deep, sonorous wail that builds to a crescendo at 6,200 rpm, accompanied by the mechanical theatre of exposed cam belts and magnesium wheels.
This particular example has been treated to a full engine-out mechanical restoration by Ferrari specialists in 2023, supported by a dealer service in 2024 and an interior refresh in 2026. It is a car that has been preserved, restored, and maintained without compromise—ready for immediate enjoyment.
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR: TIMELESS PININFARINA STYLING
Finished in Rosso Corsa—the definitive Ferrari colour—this 512 BBi presents with good paintwork, showing minor blemishes consistent with age but in very good condition overall. The black lower section is a vinyl wrap, applied cosmetically. The original Cromodora magnesium alloy wheels remain fitted, free from the usual deterioration, and are mounted with older (2004) TRX tyres.
The cabin is a highlight: luxuriously appointed in Beige leather with matching piping, the interior is remarkably well-preserved. Original period Pioneer stereo and fader unit remain in place, air conditioning is functional, and the power windows operate as intended. The engine bay and trunk are exceptionally clean, reflecting meticulous care throughout its life. Owner's manuals, spare wheel, and tool kit accompany the vehicle.
MECHANICAL & MAINTENANCE: RESTORED AND READY
The story of this 512 BBi is defined by its recent restoration. In May 2023, at 8,612 miles, respected Ferrari specialists Musketeers performed a comprehensive engine-out mechanical restoration totalling approximately HKD 288,000:
Engine out, all gaskets, belts, water hoses, and thermostat replaced
Transmission out, gaskets and seals renewed
Fuel system overhaul with new lines and pumps
Ignition and injection system restored
Gearbox and engine mounts replaced
Valve covers, air pipes, cam-belt covers, air intakes, and air-box sandblasted and repainted
New exhaust system fitted
Brakes fully serviced
2024 saw a dealer service at the official Hong Kong Ferrari dealer (8,655 miles, ~HKD 124,000), including:
All spark plugs replaced
Dinoplex refurbished
Ignition coil replaced
Rear brakes refreshed
New tyres fitted
Exhaust repair
Air conditioning re-gassed
2026 brought an interior full refreshment and nano paint coating applied, completing the car's comprehensive renewal.
The result? A car that has been mechanically reset, cosmetically renewed, and is ready for the road.
THE CLASSIC INSIDER ASSESSMENT: 88/100
We quantify condition where others merely describe. A score of 88 reflects a well-presented, mechanically restored example with excellent provenance and recent investment.
Exterior (85/100): Rosso Corsa paint presents well with minor blemishes consistent with age. Black vinyl wrap on lower section. Original magnesium wheels in good condition. TRX tyres are aged but present.
Interior (95/100): Beige leather cabin is remarkably well-preserved and recently refreshed. Original Pioneer stereo remains. Air conditioning functional. Engine bay and trunk exceptionally clean.
Mechanical (88/100): The car's strength. Full engine-out restoration by Ferrari specialists in 2023 (HKD 288k), followed by official dealer service in 2024 (HKD 124k). Comprehensive mechanical renewal addresses all major systems.
HIGHLIGHTS
One of only 1,007 Ferrari 512 BBi examples produced (1981–1984)
European specification, RHD, Hong Kong registered since 1989
Full engine-out mechanical restoration by Ferrari specialists (2023, ~HKD 288k)
Official Ferrari Hong Kong dealer service (2024, ~HKD 124k)
Interior full refreshment and nano paint coating (2026)
Original Cromodora magnesium wheels, original Pioneer stereo, owner's manuals, spare wheel, and tool kit included
License Mark BB5121 included in sale
8,672 indicated miles | 4 previous owners
Classic Insider Condition Score: 88/100
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
The Ferrari 512 BBi, known as the Berlinetta Boxer, marked a new era for Ferrari with its 12-cylinder mid-engine design, inspired by Formula 1. The flat-12 engine, named for its horizontally opposed pistons, offered improved handling due to a low centre of gravity. Designed by Pininfarina, the 512 BBi was Ferrari's most expensive model for nearly a decade.
The fuel-injected engine delivered 340 bhp at 6,000 rpm (360 bhp at 6,200 rpm in some markets), achieving speeds over 188 mph. Built on a tubular steel frame with a Pininfarina-designed steel body and five-speed manual rear transaxle, the suspension featured race-car style A-arms and anti-roll bars.
Initially equipped with metric Cromodora wheels, many owners later switched to conventional wheels for easier tyre replacement—making this example's original wheels a notable feature. The interior featured leather seats, thick carpets, air conditioning, power windows, and seat belts, offering a level of comfort unusual for a supercar of its era.
Only 1,007 BBi examples were produced, making it significantly rarer than the preceding 512 BB and the subsequent Testarossa.
FINAL WORD
The Ferrari 512 BBi is a flat-12 icon—the final chapter of the Berlinetta Boxer story and a highly collectible supercar of the 1980s. This particular example, having benefited from a comprehensive engine-out restoration and recent dealer service, represents a rare opportunity to acquire a fully sorted, turnkey example of this legendary Ferrari.
The restoration records, dealer service history, and recent cosmetic refresh demonstrate a commitment to preservation that provides rare peace of mind. For the discerning collector seeking a usable, analogue supercar with genuine investment potential, this 512 BBi delivers.
1984 Ferrari 512 BBi | Available Exclusively at Classic Insider.
Available for viewing by appointment for serious interest only.
For more info, please contact:
Kenneth Wong
Email: Kenneth@classicinsider.com
Telephone Or Whatsapp: +852 9013 2536
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DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website has been compiled by Classic Insider with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. Classic Insider is not liable for any errors or mistakes.
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