Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, 400 & 412

The Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, 400, and 412: Grand Touring Elegance

Despite their differences, these cars shared a common DNA: a luxurious interior, a powerful V12 engine, and a focus on comfortable high-speed cruising. They represent a distinct era in Ferrari's history, where grand touring elegance met everyday usability.

A New Approach to Grand Touring

The Origins: Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 (1972-1976)

Unveiled at the 1972 Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 was designed to replace the outgoing 365 GTC/4. It was aimed at clients who valued the performance of a V12 Ferrari but required the practicality of a four-seater. Designed by Pininfarina, the 365 GT4 2+2 featured sharp, angular lines and a long, low profile, establishing a distinctive aesthetic that would define Ferrari’s 2+2 grand tourers for nearly two decades.

The 365 GT4 2+2 was powered by a 4.4-liter V12 engine producing 340 horsepower, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. It featured independent suspension at all four corners, a rear-mounted transaxle for balanced weight distribution, and self-leveling rear dampers—a first for Ferrari.

Evolution: Ferrari 400 and 400i (1976-1985)

In 1976, the 365 GT4 2+2 evolved into the Ferrari 400. It retained the elegant Pininfarina design but introduced a larger 4.8-liter V12 engine, available in carbureted (400) or fuel-injected (400i) configurations. The 400 was also the first Ferrari offered with an automatic transmission, reflecting the brand’s efforts to appeal to a broader, more luxurious market.

The 400i, introduced in 1979, replaced the carburetors with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, enhancing reliability and meeting stricter emissions regulations. While the power output dropped slightly to 310 horsepower, the 400i provided smoother and more refined performance.

Refinement: Ferrari 412 (1985-1989)

The final iteration of this lineage, the Ferrari 412, debuted in 1985. It featured a further enlarged 4.9-liter V12 engine producing 340 horsepower and an anti-lock braking system (ABS)—a first for Ferrari. The 412 also received subtle styling updates, including a revised front grille, body-colored bumpers, and new alloy wheels, giving it a more modern appearance.

Model Variants and Key Differences

• Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 (1972-1976): The original model, featuring a 4.4-liter V12, five-speed manual gearbox, and classic angular styling.

• Ferrari 400 (1976-1979): Introduced a 4.8-liter carbureted V12 and offered an optional three-speed automatic transmission.

• Ferrari 400i (1979-1985): Upgraded to Bosch fuel injection, improving reliability and emissions compliance at the cost of reduced horsepower.

• Ferrari 412 (1985-1989): Enlarged 4.9-liter V12, ABS, subtle styling changes, and a mix of automatic and manual transmission options.

V12 Power and Grand Touring Comfort

The Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, 400, and 412 prioritized refinement and high-speed cruising over raw performance. However, the V12 engines provided ample power for spirited driving.

• 365 GT4 2+2: With 340 horsepower, the 365 GT4 2+2 could reach a top speed of 152 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7 seconds. Its manual gearbox and rear-mounted transaxle offered engaging handling for a grand tourer.

• 400/400i: The carbureted 400 maintained similar performance to the 365 GT4 2+2, while the 400i’s fuel-injected engine reduced horsepower but improved drivability and fuel economy. The automatic transmission offered a more relaxed driving experience.

• 412: With 340 horsepower and 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds, the 412 restored some of the original performance while adding modern features like ABS.

Road & Track described the 412 as “an elegant machine capable of devouring miles with grace,” while Car and Driver praised its “impeccable ride quality and effortless power.”

Mixed at the Time, Revered Today

At launch, the 365 GT4 2+2 and its successors received mixed reviews. Enthusiasts appreciated their luxurious interiors, smooth V12 engines, and grand touring capabilities, but critics lamented their understated design and focus on comfort over raw performance. The introduction of the automatic transmission, in particular, divided Ferrari purists.

Today, these models are appreciated for their unique place in Ferrari’s history. They represent a time when Ferrari catered to a more sophisticated audience, offering understated elegance and usability. The clean, angular design has gained newfound appreciation as a classic of 1970s and 1980s automotive styling.

An Underrated Classic

The Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, 400, and 412 are now considered hidden gems among Ferrari’s offerings. Their blend of practicality, luxury, and V12 performance makes them appealing to enthusiasts seeking a grand tourer with pedigree. With rising interest in vintage Ferraris, these models have seen increasing recognition for their engineering and historical significance.

As one of the first Ferraris to incorporate modern features like fuel injection, automatic transmissions, and ABS, this series played a pivotal role in Ferrari’s evolution into a broader luxury brand. Their relative affordability compared to other vintage Ferraris also makes them an attractive entry point into Ferrari ownership.

Timeless Elegance Meets V12 Power

The Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, 400, and 412 may not have the flamboyance of Ferrari’s mid-engine supercars, but they offer a unique blend of style, refinement, and usability. These grand tourers stand as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to adapt to the changing tastes of its clientele while remaining true to its core values of performance and craftsmanship. For enthusiasts and collectors, these models offer an intriguing combination of history, exclusivity, and understated luxury.