The acquisition of the Ferrari in 2006 happened almost by coincidence. Althoug I do admire the Ferraris since my childhood (specifically the 12 cylinders) and I had even fitted genuine showroom tiles in my garage in 1980, I have always considered that these cars were out of reach. I was rather after a Mercedes 500 SLC (Series C107), when I came across an offer for a 400i in the Internet: model year 1984 with 45'000 km only. Unfortunately it is with automatic transmission (which would have been a standard feature with the 500 SLC anyway). Leaving emotions aside, the solid GM transmission is rather an advantage, except for the fuel consumption.

Technical Data: Engine: Type F 101, 12 Cylinders V 60°, 4823 ccm, 315 HP Fuel injection K-Jetronic (2 x 6- Cylinders) Drivetrain: 3- speed automatic transmission GM THM 400 with torque converter, limited slip (40%) differential Brake System: 4- wheel disc brake (ventilated) with double brake circuit f and r and vacuum brake booster. Parking brake with separate drums for rear wheels Weight: 1820 kg Facts and Figures: - Max. speed 145 mph - Fuel consumption (real) 9.2 - 13.1 mpg; average 11.1 mpg - Fuel tank capacity 28.5 gal. Equipment: - Full leather interior (Conolly) - Aircontitioning - Hydraulic power steering - Hydraulic levelling for rear suspension - Power windows - Elecrically adjustable rear view mirrors - Central locking Production figures: all types 365GT4 2+2, 400, 400i, 412 (1972 - 1989): 2909 thereof 400i: 1306

From 2014, thanks to perfect original condition, the car is officially registered under vintage car Licence. The models 365 GT4 2+2 / 400 / 400i / 412 are definitely not the most sought after cars that ever left the Maranello factory. Nevertheless if they are kept in perfect condition they will not lose value on short term and I'm pretty sure that they will rather increase value on medium and long term basis. One of the reasons being that they will be less and less because some will disappear after accidents or major technical failures simply because it's not feasible to have them repaired due to the low market value. Nevertheless these cars are classical 12 cylinders with tubular chassis and a high class suspension. Thanks to the size and the relatively high level of comfort they are very suitable for extended trips (real Gran Tourismo's) and they produce a fascinating sound.