Ferrari 412 classic cars for sale

History of the Ferrari 412

The Ferrari 412 was launched in 1985 as an update to the 400i and followed a distinguished line of 2+2 grand tourers starting with the 365 GT4 2+2 in 1972. This segment marked Ferrari’s commitment to blending performance touring with luxury. The 412 stood out as the first Italian production car equipped with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), demonstrating Ferrari’s technological ambitions. Manufactured for just four years, the 412 wrapped up a 17-year era of this model lineage before making way for the Ferrari 456 after a production hiatus. Its body, developed by Pininfarina, maintained clear visual ties to its predecessors, with deliberate tweaks enhancing both presence and aerodynamic performance.

Model History: The Evolution of the 412 Series

The F101-series timeline began with the 365 GT4 2+2, transitioned to the 400 GT, continued as the fuel-injected 400i, and culminated with the Ferrari 412. Each model incrementally advanced the formula, responding to both tightening emissions regulations and evolving customer expectations. The 412 introduced a larger 4.9-litre V12 (up from 4.8 liters in the 400 models), Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, and notable exterior adjustments like colour-coded bumpers and a raised boot line for greater luggage capacity. The run closed in 1989 after just 576 cars (303 manuals and 273 automatics), with the platform's successor, the Ferrari 456, debuting in 1992.

Highlights and Unique Features of the Ferrari 412

The Ferrari 412 delivered improvements in safety, luxury, and dynamic capability. It was the first Ferrari production road car with standard Bosch ABS, and buyers could choose between a five-speed manual and a three-speed GM-sourced automatic without exterior badging differences. The 412's front-mounted 4.9-litre V12 produced up to 340 PS and 451 Nm, enabling a top speed around 250 km/h and 0–100 km/h in under 7 seconds. The Pininfarina coupe body featured flatter alloy wheels, subtle aerodynamic improvements, and modern details, such as black window surrounds. Comfort was paramount: electric seats, climate control, and full leather trim were standard, underlining the GT's long-distance credentials.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

No factory special editions were designated for the Ferrari 412. Most cars were produced in left-hand-drive, with right-hand-drive examples being notably rare and sought-after in certain markets. Original documentation and complete toolkits are often prized by collectors, while period features such as Blaupunkt audio and exclusive interior colour schemes offer points of distinction.

Performance and Driving Characteristics

Powered by a 4.9-litre V12, the Ferrari 412 delivers strong performance credentials for its class: 0–100 km/h is completed in approximately 6.7 seconds, and top speeds vary from 245–255 km/h. The blend of independent suspension, upgraded camshafts over previous models, and a stiffer chassis delivers both comfortable cruising and capable handling, though the car’s size and weight require attentive driving. Mechanical robustness is helped by the absence of cambelts, reducing certain maintenance burdens. Highlighted configurations include the manual gearbox versions for their more engaging driving experience. Noteworthy technical features are the Bosch ABS, independent suspension, and electronically adjustable seats—each enhancing either driver control or long-distance comfort.

Design, Interior and Special Equipment

Designed by Pininfarina, the 412 evolved classic 1970s fastback cues with updated bumpers and detail work. Colour-coded bodywork, a raised rear deck for improved boot space, and side window surrounds in black rather than chrome signaled modernisation. The cockpit is trimmed in high-grade leather, often in distinctive shades such as dark blue, black, grey, red (Cuir Rouge Cartier), or classic cream. Comfort features include climate control, electrically adjustable front seats, power windows, and a factory Blaupunkt SQR 05 radio. Wheel options included flat-faced or signature five-spoke alloys, matched to Michelin TRX tyres. The blend of comfort, premium materials, and understated aggression define the 412’s appearance and usability.

Other Notable Features

Left-hand drive dominated production, with right-hand-drive cars being exceptionally scarce. Later production cars often come with full documentation, original toolkits, spare wheels, and matching numbers, all elements valued in the classic Ferrari community. The higher rear deck expanded boot capacity, enhancing practicality for grand touring.

Summary

The Ferrari 412 remains the culmination of the marque’s F101 grand tourer family. Produced in limited numbers, it merges technological advancements—such as ABS and fuel injection—with characteristic V12 power, luxury amenities, and the refinement of Pininfarina design. Its rare presence and blend of performance and comfort continue to make the 412 a unique option for knowledgeable enthusiasts.