In Ohio, a car detailing team got their hands on what many consider a collector's dream: a Ferrari 512 BB abandoned for almost three decades. Covered in dust, moss and even bird droppings, this Pininfarina work of art had not been moved for 28 years. But thanks to WD Detailing, it is now ready to write a new chapter in its history.
A Ferrari forgotten since 1987
The story begins in a hay-covered garage worthy of the greatest movies. Beneath a layer of dirt and debris lay a 1981 Ferrari 512 BB, powered by the legendary 5.0-liter "Berlinetta Boxer" V12. This Italian sports car, unveiled at the 1976 Paris Motor Show, is a rare model: only 929 were produced between 1976 and 1981, before being replaced by the 512 BBi.
The owner, Mr. Shone, had acquired it at an auction in Georgia in the late '80s, along with a Lamborghini Miura. But family life and other priorities distracted him from his Italian jewel. As a result, the Ferrari has remained locked up in this garage, immobile since 1987.
When they discovered the car, the members of WD Detailing couldn't believe their eyes: the entire bodywork was soiled, the interior was infested with rodent tracks and the leathers were attacked by the passage of time. With the owner and his granddaughter Lily in agreement, they decided to give the car a proper cleaning.
Meticulous restoration work
The process was long and meticulous:
- vacuuming and external washing to remove moss and impurities,
- treatment of the dusty, mouse-tracked interior,
- leather cleaning and protection,
- washing the engine compartment,
- polishing of the original red (unvarnished paint).
On arrival, the car regains its brilliant shine. Details such as the Ferrari-stamped tool case and spare wheel are brought back to life. The overall impression is one of rebirth, even if a complete mechanical overhaul remains to be carried out.
A forgotten treasure worth hundreds of thousands of euros
Beyond this thorough cleaning, the value of this Italian coupé is equally impressive. Today, a Ferrari 512 BB sells for an average of between €250,000 and €300,000. This one, despite its years of neglect, could be worth around €300,000 after restoration.
When the owner and his family rediscover the cleaned Ferrari, the emotion is palpable. "It's shinier than I remember," confides Mr. Shone, his eyes shining. For him, the work doesn't stop there: he now intends to entrust the car to a mechanic to revive its 355-hp V12 and rediscover the unique driving sensations offered by a Ferrari from the 80s.
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