1979 Ferrari 512 BB

The 512 BB was the car that moved Ferrari's flagship from the front-engined Daytona to a mid-mounted flat-twelve, and this UK-supplied right-hand-drive example makes a strong case for the layout. It shows 19,835 miles, which is modest for a car approaching its fifth decade, and it comes with an extensive file of supporting documentation.

The specification is period-correct and unusually civilised for the breed. Paintwork is Rosso Corsa over a Crema leather interior, with Nero perforated inserts on the seats. Air conditioning and electric windows are fitted, which makes it easier to live with than many of its contemporaries. Pininfarina's shape is the restrained counterpoint to the Testarossa that followed: a flat bonnet line, sharp shoulders and a compact glasshouse.

Behind the cabin sits the 4.9-litre flat-twelve, mounted longitudinally ahead of the transaxle. That layout gives the car its low centre of gravity and its distinctive exhaust note. Right-hand-drive 512 BBs with UK supply history are a small group, and paperwork of this depth adds to the appeal for collectors.