Ferrari 412

The 412 replaced the 400i and introduced a series of improvements, the most noticeable being the higher boot line, along with a deeper front spoiler to improve the car’s aerodynamics. Pininfarina’s other interventions included re-designed sill panels, body-coloured bumper inserts, a modified alloy wheel design, clear indicator lenses and black windscreen and window surrounds.

In the Spring of 1985 the final evolution of the Pininfarina designed 2+2 series, that had started with the 365 GT4 2+2 in 1973, was introduced, with the presentation of the 412 model at the Geneva Salon. The 412 model designation referred to the swept volume of a single cylinder, thus the V12 engine had been increased in size to 4943cc, by providing a 1mm larger diameter bore of 82mm allied to the same 78mm stroke, producing a claimed 340 bhp at 6000rpm. At a glance it appeared very similar to a 400 series car, but closer inspection revealed a different road wheel design, that covered an ABS braking system as standard, the first roadgoing Ferrari so equipped. Apart from this the mechanical layout and elements were very similar to its predecessors.

Viewing the body more closely showed a revised rear wing line providing a less pronounced slope to the tail, with a raising of the boot lid line, which had the benefit of increasing the luggage capacity. Production of the 412 ceased in 1989, bringing to an end a sixteen year run for what was essentially a single body style. This was the longest production run in the company’s history, during which time nearly three thousand examples were produced in total of the various types.