Description
The Ferrari 400 i Automatic was part of Ferrari’s long-running series of elegant front-engined grand tourers produced from the mid-1970s through the late 1980s. It combined Italian luxury and refinement with a distinctive V12 powertrain, and, unusually for Ferrari at the time, offered an automatic transmission to appeal to a wider, more comfort-focused clientele.
The 400 series was introduced in 1976 as an evolution of the 365 GT4 2+2, and in 1979 the 400 i (injected) replaced the earlier carbureted 400 model. The addition of Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection improved drivability, reliability, and emissions compliance, though it did slightly reduce peak horsepower. The 400 i’s 4.8-liter Colombo V12 produced around 310–315 horsepower, which was more than enough to move the large 2+2 coupe at speed while maintaining smooth, effortless performance.
The defining feature of the Ferrari 400 i Automatic was its use of a GM-sourced THM400 three-speed automatic transmission. This was a significant departure for Ferrari, traditionally associated with manual gearboxes and race-bred performance. However, the automatic option was aimed at Ferrari’s growing customer base who wanted a sophisticated grand tourer for long-distance comfort rather than raw racing pedigree. For city driving and highway cruising, the automatic transmission paired well with the torquey V12, offering a relaxed and composed ride.
Styling was handled by Pininfarina, and the 400 i carried the clean, angular lines typical of late 1970s and early 1980s Italian design. Its sharp nose, quad headlights, and long, low profile gave it a discreetly elegant presence, contrasting with some of Ferrari’s more flamboyant models. The 2+2 layout provided real practicality, with rear seats suitable for occasional use and a generous luggage compartment, making it one of Ferrari’s most usable cars of the era.
The interior emphasized luxury, with leather upholstery, deep carpeting, and wood trim creating a comfortable atmosphere. Equipment levels were high for the time, with features such as air conditioning, electric windows, and premium sound systems included. The cabin was designed for long-distance touring, combining comfort with Ferrari’s trademark craftsmanship.
Though not universally celebrated in its day—some purists frowned on the automatic gearbox and more understated styling—the Ferrari 400 i Automatic has since gained recognition as a unique and characterful car. Its blend of V12 power, Italian design, and real-world usability makes it stand out in Ferrari’s history. Collectors today value its rarity, its connection to Ferrari’s grand touring heritage, and its role as one of the brand’s first ventures into offering true automatic luxury.
Would you like me to expand on how many were built and how the Automatic compared to the manual 5-speed version in terms of desirability and market value today?