Image of 1982 Ferrari 400i, sourced from www.sportscarmarket.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Understated Elegance: The 1982 Ferrari 400i

The 1982 Ferrari 400i emerges as a testament to understated luxury and performance, a grand tourer that marries Italian flair with a hint of restraint. Born from the esteemed lineage of Ferrari, an automaker synonymous with racing pedigree and design excellence, this model holds a unique place in the marque's storied history. As Ferrari's first foray into the realm of automatic transmissions, the 400i represents a pivotal shift towards embracing a wider audience of driving enthusiasts.

Design and Innovation

With its Pininfarina-penned lines, the Ferrari 400i boasts an exterior that exudes timeless sophistication. The sleek, angular contours and low-slung silhouette are punctuated by pop-up headlights—a hallmark of its era. Inside, occupants are cocooned in sumptuous leather, surrounded by wood or optional black lacquer trim that speaks to the era's luxury appointments. Technologically ahead of its time, the 400i featured innovations such as electronic fuel injection and self-leveling rear suspension. Color options ranged from classic Rosso Corsa to understated Grigio Ingrid, with deep reds and silvers being particularly popular among aficionados. The most iconic body style remains the two-door coupe, with its distinctive side profile and elegant stance.

Historical Significance

The introduction of the 400i marked a significant moment for Ferrari as it sought to blend performance with comfort. It set itself apart with a V12 front-engine layout coupled with an automatic gearbox, catering to clients who desired a more relaxed driving experience without sacrificing the marque's signature performance. This model paved the way for future grand tourers that would continue to balance luxury with speed.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its refined exterior lies a potent 4.8-liter V12 engine that propels the 400i to impressive speeds for its time. Achieving a top speed of around 149 mph and capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in just over seven seconds, it was no slouch in the performance department. On winding roads or when encountering imperfections in the tarmac, drivers appreciated its poised handling characteristics. The experience behind the wheel is one of raw auditory delight—the sonorous V12 symphony accompanies every throttle input, while the suspension delivers a ride that is firm yet forgiving.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the Ferrari 400i typically enjoyed their vehicles as grand tourers—perfect for long-distance jaunts or as an occasional showpiece at local car meets. While not as high-maintenance as some of its contemporaries, upkeep requires attention to detail and a willingness to engage with specialized service providers. Parts can be scarce and costly, but for many owners, the exclusivity and joy of driving such a machine outweigh these considerations.

Fun Facts

The Ferrari 400i holds several intriguing tidbits in its history; it was one of Enzo Ferrari's preferred daily drivers—a testament to its usability. While not setting records in speed or sales, it has graced silver screens and been associated with celebrities who appreciated its blend of performance and luxury. Criticisms often centered on its subdued styling compared to more flamboyant Ferraris, but many now view this subtlety as a mark of distinction.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors value the Ferrari 400i for its rarity and unique position within Ferrari's timeline. With only around 1,300 units produced during its lifetime, it's not commonly seen on the market. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch upwards of $60,000 to $100,000 or more depending on provenance and condition—reflecting an appreciation trend among classic Ferraris.

Conclusion

The 1982 Ferrari 400i stands as an emblematic piece of automotive history—a bridge between traditional sports car ethos and modern grand touring aspirations. It encapsulates an era when luxury began to meld seamlessly with performance, creating a vehicle that is both an artifact of its time and a timeless classic in its own right.

1982 Ferrari 400I Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/6" wide X 2-5/8" long-CB 88Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/6" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair