365BB vs 512bb carb

Guys, I have another question.
What's the difference mechanically between the 365 boxers, and 512? Also any performance differences?
Thanks
Jim

Jim,

Here's a great reference source for BB information. http://www.masiarz.net/bb_resource/introduction.html

There is much controvesy about HP numbers and performance figures for these cars...so take that information with a large grain of salt.

Regards,
David

(Message edited by fastradio2 on November 09, 2004)

David,
Thanks! That's what I was looking for.

Jim

Jim,

You should note that the performance statistics for the 365 BB included in the referenced website are based on a problematic June 1975 road test by Road & Track magazine. In this test, of which I have a copy, the car they tested suffered from clutch probelms (slipping and a tendency for the diaphragm clutch to go "over-center" e.g., pedal stuck to the floor, at high rpms. Because of this, they launched the car from rest gently until reaching 3000 rpm and they upshifted at 7000 rpm rather than the redline of 7700. As a result, the performance figures suffered and this was acknowledged by the Road & Track testers. However, they still reached a top speed of 175 mph. I have seen tests of other 365 Boxers with 0 to 100 mph times ranging from 12.2 secs. to 13.5 secs. I have owned both a 365 BB and a 512 BBi. It is my belief that all of the Boxers have about the same "peak" horsepower, but the 365 requires winding it up to over 7000 rpm while the 512s produce their power at lower rpms and with more torque.

Regarrds,

Steve

Thanks Steve,
I figured something was up with the 0-60 times of the 365. Either really high gearing, or a poor driver, or something. Plus the numbers for ferraris are just numbers. There's a whole other world between them that some people just don't understand. I currently have a carb'd 308, and though it doesn't have 400hp, it's not slow. The thing runs incredibly.
Steve, which car do you prefer? The 365 or 512?

Thanks,
Jim

Jim,

I prefer the 365 BB for the following reasons:

1) Aesthetics - I prefer the simpler, cleaner lines of the 365 without the front spoiler, side NACA ducts and wide rear wheels.

2) Driving experience - The 365 is a raw loud car and I like that in a sports car. Of course, I am comparing this with a 512 BBi which is more refined because of the fuel injection. I have not driven a 512 BB carbed so I cannot comment on this comparison.

You may also want to check out Michael Sheehan's website for the article entitled "Which Boxer for You" that he wrote for Sports Car Market magazine in 2000. His website is www.ferraris-online.com.

Regards,

Steve

Steve,
Thanks for the info. It's just what I needed.
That's a great site.

Do you still have the 365?

Regards,
Jim

Hi Jim,

I've had my 365 now for 21 years...
Still puts a smile on my face, every time I drive her!

Regards,
David

Both the 365 and 512 are faster and lighter than the BBis as they don't have the 2 heavy FI systems and added alternator.

I think in Nichols book the 365 was slightly faster in the 1/4 mile than the 512.

Tha major differences are the 512 has a dry sump, lower rev limit, hydraulic dual disk clutch and 9" wheels rear vs 7.5

All Boxers are great IMO and relatively rare especially the carb cars in the US as they were very hard to pass EPA standards I would try and find the best car, their is a huge price difference in Boxers in Europe some are asking $130k+ US so many will find there way over there for a quick profit, I don't think you can bring them back.

Jim,

Yes I still have my 365 Boxer, and, like David, it puts a huge smile on my face every time I drive it!

Steve