The BB 512 replaced the 365 GT4 BB in 1976. The name refers to 5 liters of displacement and 12 cylinders, referencing an earlier Ferrari race car—a departure from the practice of naming twelve-cylinder models by displacement per cylinder. The engine grew to 4943 cm³; peak output dropped slightly, but power delivery was smoother, and stricter emissions and noise regulations could be met. In 1978, Autocar clocked up to 262 km/h, and the BB 512 entered the Guinness Book of Records as the fastest independently tested production car.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreEngine and drivetrain · Tires and bodywork
Engine and drivetrain
The Tipo F102 B engine was enlarged to 4943 cm³, with an 82 x 78 mm bore and stroke and a compression ratio of 9.2:1. Torque increased slightly to 331 ftlb at 4300 rpm. The flatter torque curve made performance smoother and more usable in everyday driving. A dual-plate clutch handled the additional torque and reduced pedal effort, while dry-sump lubrication prevented oil starvation during fast cornering.
Tires and bodywork
To improve grip, the rear Michelin XWX tires were widened to 225 70 VR 15, and the rear wheels grew from 7.5 to 9 inches. The front remained 215 70 VR 15 on 7.5-inch-wide wheels. The chassis remained unchanged, but the rear track increased to 1563 mm, and the rear bodywork was widened. Other distinctions included a front spoiler integrated into the bumper, two taillights instead of three, and louvers instead of a black mesh grille between the lights.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari BB 512
When was the Ferrari BB 512 built?
The Ferrari BB 512 was built from 1976 to 1981.
How much power does the Ferrari BB 512 have?
Power of the Ferrari BB 512: 360 PS DIN at 6800 rpm.
What engine does the Ferrari BB 512 have?
Engine of the Ferrari BB 512: 4.9 l F102 B 180°-V12. It sits behind the seats as a mid-engine.
How fast is the Ferrari BB 512?
Top speed of the Ferrari BB 512: 262 km/h.
Who designed the Ferrari BB 512?
Design of the Ferrari BB 512: Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina.
1973
1979
1981