During the 1970s, Ferrari, renowned for its high-performance sports cars like the 308 and 512 BB, also ventured into the realm of grand tourers, combining potent engines with luxurious comfort. This expansion began with the Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 and culminated in models like the 400 and its successor, the 412.
Introduced at the 1976 Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari 400 Automatic and 400 GT replaced the outgoing 365 GT4 2+2, marking a significant evolution in Ferrari’s grand touring lineup. Pininfarina, Ferrari’s longtime coachbuilder, crafted the bodies of these cars at their Turin factory, employing steel for the construction with a fiberglass floor. This construction method ensured a balance of strength and weight savings, contributing to both performance and handling.
Under the hood, the Ferrari 400 GT featured an upgraded 4.8-liter V-12 engine derived from Ferrari’s legendary “Colombo” series. Paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, the 400 GT delivered robust performance suitable for a grand tourer, blending smooth power delivery with a sonorous engine note that Ferrari enthusiasts cherished.
Meanwhile, the 400 Automatic marked a pioneering step for Ferrari, being the first model to incorporate a three-speed Borg Warner automatic gearbox. This transmission choice aimed to broaden the appeal of the 400 series, offering effortless cruising coupled with Ferrari’s trademark performance capabilities.
Both iterations of the 400 series were equipped with six Weber carburetors (38 DCOE 110-111/M), meticulously tuned to optimize the 4.8-liter engine’s output. Producing an impressive 340 horsepower, the Ferrari 400 series could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over seven seconds—an impressive feat for a luxury grand tourer of its era. This performance was complemented by a sophisticated suspension setup and servo-assisted disc brakes, ensuring both handling prowess and reliable stopping power.
Production of the Ferrari 400 series spanned from 1976 to 1979 at Ferrari’s Modena factory. During this period, a total of 502 examples were built, encompassing both the manual GT and automatic variants. Each model exemplified Ferrari’s commitment to blending high-performance engineering with luxurious comfort, appealing to discerning enthusiasts who sought a balance between speed, style, and prestige.
The 400 series represented a significant chapter in Ferrari’s history, bridging the gap between their acclaimed sports cars and the demands of luxury grand touring. These cars continue to be sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike for their blend of Ferrari’s engineering prowess, elegant design by Pininfarina, and the prestige associated with the Ferrari badge. The legacy of the 400 series endures as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to innovate and excel in creating cars that transcend mere transportation, offering an unforgettable driving experience characterized by power, refinement, and timeless appeal.
