One of just 260 1 Series 400i models fitted with a manual gearbox
Low mileage of 79,220 km
Engine rebuilt in 2015
Previously part of private collections in France and Italy
Elegant Grigio Scuro paintwork, largely original, with a cream leather interior
Regular mechanical servicing carried out by brand specialists
Recent service including replacement of spark plugs and flushing of the coolant
Front shock absorbers replaced in 2024 with Koni Classic units
Two fuel pressure accumulators recently replaced
The appeal
The 400i modernised Pininfarina’s magnificent 400 coupé by adopting Ferrari’s first fuel injection system. By replacing the complex six-carburettor Weber system with an easier-to-operate Bosch K-Jetronic injection system, Ferrari produced a car that was simpler to maintain, whilst retaining the elegant lines of the 365 GT and, of course, the sublime ‘Colombo’ V12.
This magnificent 1982 400i Grigio Scuro is one of just 422 cars built at the factory with the highly sought-after five-speed manual gearbox. The chassis number confirms that it left the factory fitted with this gearbox and that it is also one of the last Series 1 400i models, of which only 260 are believed to have been fitted with a manual gearbox. These early 310 ch models are distinguished in particular by their wood-veneer centre console, their more delicate round ‘eyeball’ dashboard air vents and their self-levelling rear suspension, which was replaced on later models.
The car is said to be largely original, with only the tailgate having been repainted. Inside, the cream leather interior is remarkably well preserved, whilst the wood veneers are also in excellent condition. The seller confirms that the 79,220 km shown on the odometer is accurate and provides a comprehensive list of recent maintenance work.
This work includes, in particular, the replacement of the front shock absorbers with Koni Classic units, the replacement of two fuel pressure accumulators, and a service involving the replacement of the spark plugs and a coolant flush. Previous work includes, notably, an engine rebuild in 2015.
The car is registered in France and was previously part of a private collection. Its last MOT was valid until 2023. The seller now recommends a further service, the replacement of the clutch and a forthcoming timing belt check – factors the buyer should take into account.
For the collector looking for a rare Ferrari V12 GT with a manual gearbox, which is in good condition aesthetically but still requires some mechanical work, this 400i presents a particularly interesting project.
The seller states:
“A rare version with a manual gearbox; only 422 were produced. The gearbox completely transforms the car; it is incomparable to the automatic version. A very interesting project, as this is a car that is increasing in value. The 400 series represents the final evolution of the legendary Colombo V12, whilst remaining the most affordable. Very little cosmetic work is required, as the bulk of the work to be carried out relates to the mechanics; it therefore provides a very solid foundation.”
The bodywork is in good overall condition, as shown in the photographs
The Grigio Scuro paintwork appears to be largely original
Only the tailgate appears to have been repainted for aesthetic reasons
The plastic rear bumper is slightly cracked in two places
A small trace of corrosion is beginning to appear under the rear right wing
The cream leather interior is in good overall condition, with wear consistent with the car’s age
Series I interior with its round dashboard air vents and wood-veneer centre console
Interior fittings in very fine condition, particularly the wood veneers
Slight wear to the edge of the leather steering wheel
The seller states that the leather and carpets are very clean
The various interior functions are reportedly in good working order
The front panel of the car radio is reported to be missing
The air conditioning works, but requires conversion to a modern refrigerant
Currently fitted with Michelin XWX tyres instead of the TRX tyres originally fitted
The seller recommends replacing the tyres
Original five-spoke Cromodora alloy wheels in good condition, with a few scuff marks to note
The original 365 GT caused some controversy at the time, particularly because it abandoned the curves of the Daytona in favour of a more angular design. Time, however, has largely vindicated it, as the photographs of this car attest. It is now difficult to deny that Pininfarina’s grand GT coupé ranks amongst the finest grand tourers ever produced.
This impression is reinforced by the superb Grigio Scuro paintwork on this example, which is believed to be largely original and remains in good condition, apart from the few imperfections mentioned above and visible in the photographs.
Inside, the car retains the highly sought-after interior of the early Series I models, with its round air vents and wood-veneer trim. The cream-coloured leather is particularly well preserved and shows only a slight patina due to age, more characteristic of a car that has been well-loved than of a recent restoration.image.png3.43 MB
The mechanics
4,823 cm³ Colombo V12 producing 310 ch
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection
Five-speed manual gearbox
Clutch needs replacing; currently slipping
Timing and chains to be checked
The seller states that the tension adjustment is at the lower end of its range, which would suggest limited chain stretch
A full service is required before the car can be used
Front shock absorbers replaced with Koni Classic units in 2024
Cooling system fully flushed in 2023; invoice available
Two fuel pressure accumulators replaced
Spark plugs replaced; oil change and cooling system flush carried out in 2024/2025
The seller reports effective braking, sound road holding and no abnormal noises from the powertrain or bearings, apart from the clutch slipping
The switch to Bosch fuel injection makes the 400i particularly appealing to buyers who genuinely wish to use and enjoy their car. This setup is generally regarded as reliable and allows the magnificent Colombo V12 to produce 310 ch.
This particular example also features the highly sought-after five-speed manual gearbox, which makes these large 2+2 GTs particularly enjoyable and engaging to drive.
The seller states that the engine was rebuilt in 2015 and that the car has covered only a few kilometres since then, mainly whilst in private collections. The engine was serviced in 2024, accompanied by a coolant flush around the same time. The seller believes, however, that a further service would be advisable.
The front shock absorbers have been replaced and two new fuel pressure accumulators have also been fitted.
Several mechanical repairs are therefore still to be carried out, as detailed above. Once this work has been completed, the buyer will own a particularly rare and well-specced example of a Ferrari 400i, a model that is becoming increasingly sought-after by collectors.image.png4.07 MB BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a professional seller. You are covered by Car & Classic’s terms and conditions.
✓ We require a non-refundable fee to be paid if you are the successful bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is sold ‘as is’, on an ‘as seen, where seen’ basis , and without warranty. Photographs and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is standard practice to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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