Ferrari 512 BB '76

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

4,942 cc

DriveTrain

MR

Height

1,120 mm

Length

4,400 mm

Weight

1,400 kg

Width

1,830 mm

Max Power

354 BHP / 7,000 rpm

Max Torque

46.0 kgfm / 4,500 rpm

Performance Point

PP 528.32

Manufacturer

Ferrari

The Ferrari 512 BB '76: A Mid-Engine Marvel in Automotive History

The Ferrari 512 BB '76, known as the Berlinetta Boxer, is an iconic supercar that marked a significant evolution in Ferrari’s lineage during the 1970s. Introduced at the 1976 Paris Motor Show, the 512 BB replaced the legendary front-engined Daytona with a groundbreaking new design: a mid-mounted flat-12 (boxer) engine, signaling a bold leap for the prancing horse brand. This configuration placed the 5.0-liter, 360-horsepower powerplant behind the driver—offering both outstanding balance and a thrilling driving experience synonymous with Ferrari’s racing success.

Unlike its predecessor, the 512 BB was more closely aligned with Ferrari's motorsport heritage, echoing the mid-engine layouts found in the marque’s dominant Formula One and sports prototype racers. The car’s dramatic wedge-shaped Pininfarina body, low-slung silhouette, and pop-up headlights further cemented its status as a product of Italian supercar artistry. While not specifically designed for competition, the 512 BB’s robust engine, high-speed stability, and advanced handling made it a favorite among performance enthusiasts and wealthy collectors alike.

In terms of sales, the Ferrari 512 BB filled a crucial role in the supercar market of the late 1970s and early 1980s, rivaling other exotic contemporaries such as the Lamborghini Countach. Over its production run, fewer than 1,000 examples were built, contributing to its allure and collectibility today. The 512 BB also laid the groundwork for its even more advanced successor, the 512 BBi—introducing fuel injection. Although the car did see some privateer entries in endurance racing, its true legacy remains as a grand touring supercar, representing Ferrari’s blend of luxury, innovation, and motorsport pedigree.

Today, the Ferrari 512 BB '76 is revered not only for its rarity and historical significance but also for its pure driving thrills, embodying the bold spirit of 1970s supercar design. Its influence persists in the DNA of modern Ferrari V12 mid-engined flagships, making it a cherished chapter in the story of the world’s most famous sports car manufacturer.