Ferrari 412
In 1985 further improvements were made to the Ferrari 400i, with the launch of the Ferrari 412 (chassis Tipo F 101 EL) in April that year. The engine was bored 1 mm, for an increase in displacement to 4,942 cc (302 cu in) — hence the name change to 412, representing the single cylinder displacement in cubic centimetres. Both the manual and automatic transmissions were retained, but exterior badging no longer denoted the transmission type fitted. Bosch ABS was offered, a first for Ferrari. The body was altered, with a raised rear deck granting more luggage space. Pininfarina made many subtle tweaks to modernize the exterior. The bumpers were body-coloured; at the front there was a deeper spoiler, at the rear a black valance incorporated the foglamps and exhaust pipes. Side window trim was changed from chrome to black. The flat-faced wheels were new and fitted with TRX tires.
A total of 576 examples were made. Production ended in 1989 without a direct successor being immediately launched; the mid-engined Mondial remained the only Ferrari offering 2+2 seating. In 1992, after a three-year hiatus, the classic front-engine V12 2+2 grand tourer returned with the 456.
A black 1987 model of the 412 was used in the 2006 independent film Daft Punk's Electroma. It appears from after the opening credits to where the robots have their human masks developed and fitted.
It is rumoured the car used in filming was auctioned for charity, with the 'HUMAN' license plates signed by Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo (the duo of Daft Punk who directed Electroma.)
Reply With Quote