The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Ferrari 512 BB LM 1980 represents the pinnacle of Ferrari's presence in the endurance racing world. The vehicle is an evolution of the iconic 512 BB road car, but with significant modifications to ensure that it meets the stringent requirements of racing.
Under the hood, the 512 BB LM is powered by a mid-mounted 5.0-liter flat-12 engine that delivers a staggering 480 horsepower. The powerplant utilizes a six Weber carburetor system to provide ample fuel supply to the engine, and a dry sump lubrication system ensures that oil pressure stays constant at all times. The engine is coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox, which is integrated into the chassis for optimal weight distribution.
The 512 BB LM's chassis is composed of a tubular steel frame with an integrated roll cage for added safety. The body is constructed from lightweight fiberglass, designed to minimize drag and maximize downforce. The brakes on the 512 BB LM are ventilated disc brakes all around, with four-piston calipers providing ample stopping power. The suspension is fully adjustable and utilizes torsion bars and anti-roll bars to provide optimal handling, ensuring that the car can maintain its composure at high speeds through corners.
Inside the cockpit, the driver is greeted with a minimalistic yet functional layout, featuring a racing steering wheel, bucket seats, and a comprehensive array of gauges to monitor critical vehicle systems. The car is equipped with a fire suppression system, and the fuel cell is situated where the passenger seat would typically be found in a road-going 512 BB.
The 512 BB LM achieved significant success on the track, winning both the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1981, cementing its legacy as one of Ferrari's most prominent endurance racers. Overall, the 512 BB LM is a technical marvel, embodying Ferrari's uncompromising commitment to performance, innovation, and motorsport excellence.
Milestones
- The Ferrari 512 BB LM was introduced in 1980 as a racing variant of the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer. - The car was powered by a 4.9L V12 engine that produced around 480 horsepower. - The 512 BB LM was designed to compete in the IMSA GT and World Endurance Championships. - The car's first major race was the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1980, where it finished in 12th place overall and 5th in its class. - In 1981, the car finished in 9th place overall and 2nd in its class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. - The 512 BB LM also competed in the IMSA GT Championship, where it won the 1981 Daytona 24 Hours. - The car was retired from racing in 1982, after achieving notable success in both endurance racing and GT racing.Technical
- Engine: 180-degree, flat-12 engine - Displacement: 4.9 L (4,942 cc) - Power output: 480 hp - Transmission: 5-speed manual - Top speed: 315 km/h (196 mph) - 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 4.9 seconds - Weight: 1,205 kg (2,656 lb) - Wheelbase: 2,550 mm (100.4 in) - Suspension: front and rear independent suspension - Brakes: vented disc brakes - Fuel delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system - Body style: 2-door berlinetta - Production years: 1976-1984 - Racing history: won class at 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1981 and 1982.CLASSIC CAR MATCHER