Ferrari Classics: 400 series

The 400 series replaced the 365 GT4 2+2 model at the 1976 Paris Salon, and for the first time a model with automatic transmission became available on a Ferrari production car, the 400 Automatic. As with the 365 variant, the model number referred to the swept volume of a single cylinder, whilst the new engine had the same 81mm bore of its predecessor, the stroke was increased to 78mm to give a total capacity of 4823cc. The engine of cars with the automatic gearbox had a factory type reference F 101 C 080. Two banks of three Weber side draught twin choke 38 DCOE 110-111 carburettors were fitted, with twin coil and rear of engine mounted distributors, to produce a claimed 340bhp. The Borg Warner three speed plus reverse automatic gearbox was, perhaps surprisingly for purists, an immediate hit with Ferrari clients, and would account for approximately two thirds of the cars manufactured for the remainder of the 400 into the 412 series production run. In Great Britain the figures were even higher, with the vast majority of purchasers favouring automatic transmission. The power was transmitted from the automatic gearbox through a propeller shaft to a limited slip differential, and from there via half shafts to the independently suspended rear wheels with hydraulic self levelling units.

Although the chassis of the 400 series cars was structurally virtually identical to the preceding 365 GT4 2+2 models, there were nominal differences, which resulted in a new factory reference number F 101 CL 180 for this automatic transmission version. Visually 400 series models can be differentiated from their predecessor by a small body colour spoiler on the lower edge of the nose, five bolt fixing for the five spoke alloy wheels instead of the single triple eared spinner, paired circular rear light assemblies, and the disappearance of the "Cavallino Rampante" from the radiator grille. Inside the seat upholstery was made more sumptuous, and the stitch style and pattern altered, along with minor changes to switchgear on the centre console, and a change of style for the door release catch.

The 400 Automatic continued in production until November 1979, during which time 355 examples were produced in the chassis number range19353 to 28261. As with the 365 GT4 2+2, they were built and fully trimmed at the Pininfarina works in Turin, and then shipped to the Ferrari factory in Maranello for the installation of the mechanical components. Right or left hand drive steering, with power assistance as standard, was available, but as with the other twelve cylinder models of the period, no USA market version was made.

Engine

Type

front, longitudinal 60° V12

Bore/stroke

81 x 78 mm

Unitary displacement

401.93 cc

Total displacement

4823.16 cc

Compression ratio

8.8 : 1

Maximum power

250 kW (340 hp)

Power per litre

70 hp/l

Maximum torque

-

Valve actuation

twin overhead camshafts per bank, two valves per cylinder

Fuel feed

six Weber 38 DCOE carburettors

Ignition

single spark plug per cylinder, two coils

Lubrication

wet sump

Clutch

torque converter

Chassis

Frame

tubular steel

Front suspension

independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs over telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar

Rear suspension

self-levelling, independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs over telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar

Brakes

discs

Transmission

3-speed automatic + reverse

Steering

power-assisted recirculating-ball

Fuel tank

capacity 120 litres

Front tyres

215/70 VR 15

Rear tyres

215/70 VR 15

Bodywork

Type

2+2 coupé

Length

4810 mm

Width

1796 mm

Height

1310 mm

Wheelbase

2700 mm

Front track

1470 mm

Rear track

1500 mm

Weight

1700 kg (dry)

Performance

Top speed

240 km/h

Acceleration 0-100 km/h

-

0-400 m

14.9 sec.

0-1000 m

25.5 sec.

Note to the Technical Details

The listed details are those published by Ferrari at the model’s presentation. For the models produced in the

participating in these two categories) and Gran Turismo. (the road-going cars, many of which also took part in various international races).

first years no external measures of the body were given, because those could vary from car to car. All models from Ferrari have been divided into three categories: single-seater, Sport/Prototype (the

The year of all the models’ introductions is the debut in competitions for the single-seaters and Sport /Prototypes and the official presentation as far as the Gran Turismo are concerned.