Berlinetta Boxer. Two words that hint at the two banks of cylinders that give life to the 180° V12 engine, but also an iconic name that has become synonimous with this car’s unique charme and poise.

First presented at the Paris Show in 1976 and produced in just over 900 exemples, the Pininfarina-designed 512 BB followed the construction principles of its predecessor – the 365 GT4/BB – while introducing a series of small aesthetic developments on nose and tail, which not only made it look even more elegant but also helped improve the mechanics’ cooling.

Major improvements could be found underneath the skin, with a larger 5-litre engine able to offer greater torque, a smoother power delivery and improved driveability.

Independent suspension, front and rear anti-roll bar and ventilated disc brakes also contributed to the magic handling of this sports car.

It’s not by chance that it is on the base of this very model that Ferrari developed the 512 BB LM, soon to become one of the most fascinating race cars of the Prancing Horse.