Lot 031: 1980 FERRARI 400i

Introduced at the 1976 Paris Salon, the Ferrari 400 shared the same crisp Pininfarina styling and Type F101AL tubular steel chassis frame as its 365GT4 2+2 predecessor. Powered by an enlarged 4823cc 'quad-cam' V12 engine, the occasional four-seater featured all-round independent suspension (self-levelling to the rear), power-assisted recirculating ball steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Notable as the first Maranello product for which automatic transmission could be specified; the 400 also boasted such luxuries as Connolly hide upholstery, electric windows and optional air conditioning. Arriving during mid 1979, the 400i enjoyed greater refinement, lower emissions and better fuel economy thanks to its adoption of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection. Credited with some 310bhp and 289lbft of torque, the newcomer was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and 149mph. A true front-engined, rear-wheel drive V12 Ferrari from the old school, the 400i remained in production until 1985 by which time some 886 automatic variants had been sold (though, just 171 of these are thought to have been to right-hand drive). Finished in metallic gold / sand with brown leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, automatic gearbox, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres, While, he considers the electrical equipment to be "very good" (aside from a battery charging issue). In addition to a repaint, 'OEF 105W' is further understood to have benefited from a new camshaft, replacement exhaust, refurbished wheels and fresh tyres. Exuding an understated elegance, this tempting Ferrari is offered for sale with "extensive history file" and MOT certificate valid until January 2008.