| Output was up 25bhp on Series II 400i's, these 412's producing 340bhp at 6000rpm, thus fully redressing the retrograde steps taken with the advent of fuel-injection. Compression was raised for the first time and set at 9.6:1, re-mapped Bosch K-Jetronic improving efficiency in every department. Customers were again given the option of either a GM three-speed automatic or in-house five speed manual and, in terms of performance, the 412 was the fastest Ferrari Berlina yet with a top speed of 155mph, 0-60 requiring under seven seconds for both versions. A good deal of the 412’s renewed appeal lay in its updated appearance, those few minor alterations needed laying testament to the high standard of Pininfarina’s original 1972 design. At the front, the chin spoiler was simplified and came finished in matt black while the grille had driving lights mounted in each corner. Bumpers were colour coded to the bodywork and clear indicator lenses fitted. At the rear, that previously matt black facia also became colour coded. Flat face five spoke alloys brouight the 412 into line with Testarossa, 328 and Mondial while a thoroughly updated interior saw the arrival of touch sensitive controls, new electric seats and redesigned door panels. None of the original style was lost, however, with Pininfarina giving the interior a subtle update rather than a radical overhaul. Launched during March 1985 at the Geneva Salon (although production did not actually begin until later in the year), the 412 was a fitting end for a long-running and very successful model. Production was discontinued in 1989 after 303 GT's were built (including 75 right-hand drive) and 226 Automatic's (55 of which were RHD). |
