Stolen Rare Ferrari Returned to Its Former F1 Driver Owner After 28 Years
In April 1995, a red Ferrari F512M was stolen in London without a trace. The owner is ex-Formula One driver Gerhard Berger.
Berger completed 14 F1 seasons. First joining Formula One via ATS in 1984, Berger drove for Aarrows, Benetton, Ferrari, and McLaren. He won 10 Grands Prix. While driving for Ferrari, he finished third overall in the 1988 and 1994 championships.
The F512M was the subject of a “tedious” investigation assisted by Ferrari and international dealerships. It was discovered by the London Metropolitan Police and the National Crime Agency that the Ferrari, once taken, was shipped to Japan.
The F512M landed back in the UK late last year. Ferrari notified officials of the car’s movement when a U.S. buyer purchased it. After running checks, Ferrari confirmed it was indeed Gerhard Berger’s rare model. It will be returned to him.
Based on recent photos from the London Metropolitan Police, the car looks to be in excellent condition.
This F512M has an estimated value of £350,000, or about $444,183.
1994-1996 Ferrari F512M specs
| 1994-1996 Ferrari F512M | Spec |
| Manufactured loc. | Maranello, Italy |
| Units made | 500 |
| Top speed | 196 mph |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| ¼ mile | 12.8 sec |
| Engine | Flat-12 |
| Output | 440 bhp @ 6750 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Body | Aluminum |
| Chassis | Steel tube |
| Brakes | Disc |
| Wheelbase | 100.4 in |
| Length | 176.4 in |
| Width | 77.8 in |
| Height | 44.7 in |
Sources: BBC, Supercars.net
