Tag Archives: Ferrari

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1995 Ferrari 456GT

When you hear the name Ferrari, images of sleek sports cars and racing victories fill the mind. We often forget that this company has also produced some of the finest GT cars to hit the road. Case in point this 456GT. Seldom seen on the roads today, this was a handsome coupe with powerful 5.5 liter V12 backed by a six-speed manual or four speed automatic. This 456GT for sale in Miami is a low mileage example of the touring Ferrari breed that looks stealthy in black.

1995 Ferrari 456GT

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This 1995 Ferrari 456GT. Finished Black With Beige Leather Interior. Driven Only 20,195 Documented Miles. Meticulously Maintained, Cared And Serviced Since New. Major Service Performed On June 2012 With Service Records Available. Fitted With All Standard And Special Options As Follows: Electrically Operated Front Seats, 17" Alloy Wheels, Original Manuals, Its As Good As It Gets!

Prices for these Ferraris have fallen to a point where they are affordable to more enthusiasts, but, of course, that doesn't mean the expensive maintenance has gone away. This car's asking price represents the top end of 456GT values these days. With a recent service and low mileage, however, it does reassure potential buyers by presenting some redeeming value. Given the nature of the beast, some might prefer this car with the automatic transmission, but for me, the six-speed gearbox suits me just fine. It may not have the edgy character of the later F550 Maranello, but this Ferrari is sublime and could still rip your face off if you put your foot in it.

-Paul

Ferrari

1968 Ferrari 365GT 2+2

Towards the end of the 1960s, Ferrari was in a transition phase. With the introduction of the mid-engine Dino in 1968, the model lineup would forever include a mid-engined sports car in the lineup. Also, more creature comforts began to filter their way into Ferrari road cars, such as the case with this 365GT 2+2. This was the first Ferrari to feature power steering and air conditioning, which was standard equipment for US customers. With its familiar Columbo 4.4 liter V12 delivering 320 horsepower, this touring machine was capable of a run to 60 in just over seven seconds. Over 800 copies were produced from 1967 through 1971, giving way to the 365 GTC/4. This 365GT 2+2 for sale in California is a European market car in eye catching Fly Yellow replete with California black plates.

1968 Ferrari 365GT 2+2

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1968 Ferrari 365 GT. Excellent Matching Numbers Euro Model. The Ferrari 365 GT was designed by Pininfarina and followed in the vein of the 500 Superfast, bearing a striking resemblance to it. Sometimes referred to as the "Queen Mother" of Ferraris, it was the last of the front engine, wood dash cars unfettered by DOT and EPA regulations. It continued a wonderful legacy of awesome road cars that began in the 1950s with the Columbo engined 166 and 250. The example here is a Euro version 1968 model that has not been offered for sale in over 20 years. It has been in the careful custody of its current owner since the 90s. A Ferrari/Maserati collector and enthusiast, the current owner has fastidiously maintained the car and recently has reluctantly decided to part with it.

I had the pleasure of owning this very car prior to the current owner. It was my wife's daily driver. It provided us years of pleasurable and reliable (exciting) "transportation" and completed several (fast) trips up the coast to the Monterey weekends in August. IT IS AN AWESOME CAR ON THE ROAD! With 12 cylinders up front, 5 speeds, quad exhaust, Borrani wires, leather interior, wood dash and wheel, and super svelte styling, the car literally has it all. Just 800 examples were built between 1968 and 1971. (Compare that figure to 1284 Daytonas...)

This Ferrari is a matching numbers example. Here is the original chassis plate. Chassis # 11853. The wheels are original Borrani wires, including the spare. Tires are correct and extremely rare Michelin XWX. The tires have plenty of tread, but are a bit aged. For any high mileage driving, it is recommended that newer tires be fitted. The body on this Ferrari is excellent. It has never suffered an accident or damage. All the lines are nice and crisp, just as original. In 1998, the car was repainted professionally in fly yellow, and the bumpers were re chromed. New window rubbers were installed and and the trim around the windows was re anodized as per original.

The paint has held up extremely well and needs no attention. The car appears large from the outside, but once inside, it's just right. Visibility is superb in all directions with no blind spots. The seats and interior are in excellent condition. The leather shows little wear and is nicely patina’d. It has factory air conditioning, although it has gone unused for years. It worked previously and may just need some freon. The electrics all work as they should, including the crazy motorized front 1/4 vent windows, controlled by the switches shown here, just forward of the window switches.

The odometer shows 93,173 kilometers (57,767 miles) and although unverifiable, is believed to be original. The condition of the car supports it. The early cars such as this one, came with this gorgeous wood rimmed steering wheel. It's literally a work of art. This one is in excellent condition. The 365 GT is a true 2+2. The leather is all in nice shape. The very nice original headliner is shown here.

The car runs beautifully. All three Webers, both distributors, and everything else that matters-all in fine fettle. The correct original plate is still intact on the air cleaner, as well as the correct yellow fuel line. The underside is rust free. Original rockers seen here. This is the right rear underside. The left rear underside. The 365 GT is such a beautiful piece of machinery. The classic design elements characteristic of early Ferraris are all here, like the famous egg crate grill. Really, words are not necessary when the photos herein aptly represent this Ferrari's impeccable beauty. The original correct leather tool rolls are present. The original jack is here, but most of the tools are non-original replacements. A parts manual (reprint) and an original owner's manual are included.

This is a GRAND OPPORTUNITY to own an excellent example of a classic front engined V12 Ferrari that you can actually drive. And drive it you will. When the current owner and long-time friend of mine called me to say he was selling, I was a bit saddened. Having enjoyed owning this very car myself, and seeing the joy it has brought him, it will be bitter sweet to see it go. Ferraris do that to you. There is a very reasonable reserve on this auction. It is not available for sale anywhere else.

Interestingly, these late sixties 2+2 Ferraris are some of the more affordable pieces of hardware to emerge from Maranello. Entrance into this club starts around $60,000 to $70,000 and for the most well restored or original examples, look to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of around $120,000 to $130,000 or so. I’d wager to say this particular car’s reserve may be hovering somewhere around $90,000 to $100,000 or so. This 365GT certainly looks sharp in yellow, but I would prefer a more subtle color, such as a dark gray metallic or deep burgundy or brown. If it’s a classic V12 Ferrari you seek, these sleek machines offer relatively good bang for the buck.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1987 Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet

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The affordable Ferrari. Is it just a myth or does it really exist? From the looks of this Mondial Cabriolet for sale outside of Philadelphia, it could be closer at hand than at first glance. It's tempting to think that you could get a fine Italian exotic for the price of a well equipped Honda Civic, but is it wise to pull the trigger?

1987 Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet

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Thank you for taking a moment to look at one of our finest vintage Ferrari offerings. This 1987 Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet combines the legendary style of the 80's Ferraris with state of the art (for its day) technological innovations and convenient 2+2 seating. That's right! This is a ragtop Ferrari the whole family can enjoy! This car has been pampered. It comes with the original tools, tonneau cover, boot, etc. The car's paint is practically perfect.

The interior is also in exceptional shape. This car is a bargain and needs very little to be a Platinum winning car at any Ferrari show. The 80 year old man who parted with this car so we could have it did not give us the service records. It will come to you ready to roll and should be low maintenance for the coming years. This car is at the end of its depreciation and can only go up in value. Treat this car right, and you can put a Ferrari notch in your belt for the ownership cost of a Honda Accord! This car has the following noteworthy items: 1) The top has had one small tear that was previously repaired. It was done properly and does not detract from the function nor the aesthetics of the top. 2) The rear windows work, but are slow to go up and down. The right rear window needs the help of a finger occasionally to go up. Not worth fixing until it doesn't work anymore (in my opinion).

At $22,000, this is bargain basement as drivable, presentable Ferraris go. It's disconcerting the seller did not get the service records from the previous owner. That leads one to believe there may be something to hide, because how hard would it have been to even make photocopies of the original documents? Buying any Ferrari without some sort of history is a huge risk. Anyone eyeing up a car like this should have it looked over, as there is no mention of a recent service or any maintenance items taken care of. Aside from that, at this price, this car looks very tidy cosmetically, both inside and out.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1992 Ferrari Mondial Valeo t Cabriolet

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Towards the end of the Mondial production run, Ferrari decided to a be a bit daring and experiment with a semi-automatic version of the car’s 5-speed manual gearbox. Essentially the same transmission right down to the gear ratios, this gearbox was similar to the Volkswagen and Porsche Sportomatic gearbox in the 1970s, offering manual shifting without a third pedal. However, the Valeo system had a microprocessor controlling the clutch engagement which made for more refined shifting. This gearbox and automated clutch setup was designed to learn the user’s driving habits over time and even allowed for situations where you could engine brake if you lifted off the throttle. The clutch would then not fully disengage until you stopped the vehicle. Sophisticated stuff for the period and no doubt gave Ferrari a baseline on where to go with the semi-automatic gearbox in the future. This Mondial Valeo t Cabriolet for sale in Toronto offers a rare opportunity to purchase this clutchless cabriolet.

1992 Ferrari Mondial Valeo t Cabriolet

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1992 Mondial t Cabriolet 2+2 Vaelo. This Mondial t comes equipped with a 3.4L quad cam V8 producing 300 horsepower coupled to a 5-speed Valeo semi-automatic transmission. Valeo was available as an option; while shifting was done by means of a traditional gear lever, the clutch was actuated automatically without a clutch pedal.

41,440 miles (approximately 66,000km) The Mondial t is a substantially changed vehicle to the previous Mondial. With a new engine and transmission layout it provides much improved handling and performance characteristics. This rare automated manual makes this car the perfect four-seat Ferrari.

Around $30,000 to $35,000 is what late model Mondial t Cabriolets are fetching these days. I'm not sure if the Valeo gearbox would add any significant value to the bottom line, as most enthusiasts would prefer three pedals. Still, as an engineering curiosity, this car may bring its fair share of interest from enthusiasts.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1989 Ferrari Mondial t Coupe

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The Mondial has always been underappreciated by true Tifosi, but nevertheless it is a Ferrari. Introduced in 1980 as the successor to the 208 and 308 GT4, the Mondial evoked the name of a famous Ferrari race car from the 1950s. With close to 7,000 built over 13 years, this was a successful model for Ferrari. In 1989 the final evolution of the Mondial arrived, the "t." Offered in coupe and convertible form, the Mondial t did something uncommon when it comes to vehicle facelifts. Ferrari decided to mount the engine longitudally, with the gearbox mounted perpendicular to the engine, forming a "t" shape. The engine in question was a 3.4 liter V8 that produced 300 horsepower.

This particular Mondial for sale in California is the only year the Mondial t was offered in the US as a hardtop. In black with a special order sunroof, this is a rare combination for this 2+2 coupe.

1989 Ferrari Mondial t Coupe

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1989 Ferrari Mondial T Coupe. Full Collector Condtion, as new condition for 23 Years Old. SUPER RARE. The only one currently for sale in the U.S. Ferrari only imported 43 Mondial T Coupes produced for US. Only 7 were Black (Nero) and only 4 had Tan Interior. 2 Had Sun Roofs. So this is 1 of 2 produced as a US Spec. Last year Mondial T Coupe. Original Owner, purchased new at Ferrari Walnut Creek (now Ferrari San Francisco). Delivered in Jan 1990, Originally Sold in March 1990. This could be the last one produced in the factory.

All paperwork, original window sticker, docs, original books and bookcase, service records galore, original tool kit and tools complete unused - 5K's, 15K, 30K completed including clutch. Last year of the Mondial T Coupe (Only 43 imported to US in 89). This alone establishes its collectability. 100% original, no accidents, no dings, no scratches, no stories. Paint is perfect and glossy as new.

Special order factory sun roof, drivers bolseter in perfect shape, only slightest of wear if any. Passenger seat, mint condition as new. Rear seats, as new. Headliner, mint, as new. Glass, perfect

Steering wheel and dash, perfect, no shrinkage. No signs of any wear (carpets are complete and original). Surgeon owned it's entire life from new. Driven sparingly but driven to the club on weekends so 500 miles per year. Northern California Car. Dry and 100% garage kept at all times. Detailed and serviced on schedule and regularly. Only Lexol leather conditioner has been used on this car. No Armor All.

What more can I say about this perfect example of a last year and limited production model of a Collectors Ferrari Mondail T Coupe. They do not come any cleaner, or tighter than this. AC blows cold, sunroof works flawlessly as do all the electrical components. There are no buzzers going off, no red lights on dash. Everything has been done and it drives like it did when it came off the showroom floor in late 1989. If it does not sell, I am keeping it and putting her back into a time capsule as it is only going to go up in value due to its rarety and fine collectors condition. This exact car was featured in the Motorweek show and is on the above video link.

With four days left, bidding is already over $40,000. This is a lot of money for any version of Mondial and may set a new high for the breed. Usually, one can expect to shell out anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000 for a good example of one of these. Mondials which are selling for under $20,000 should be approached with caution and examined with a fine toothed comb. I’ve always felt a bit lukewarm towards the Mondial, but this t Coupe in black with the later, better integrated bumpers, makes for one clean looking coupe. We have not seen a mid-engine, 2+2 Ferrari since and maybe it’s time collectors give these cars more than just a passing glance.

The following is the segment from Motorweek in which this Ferrari was featured:

-Paul

Ferrari

1963 Ferrari 250GT Lusso

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Like the Daytona and F40, the 250GT Lusso is one of those Ferraris with a strong aura built up around it. Contrary to the business model at the time, this Ferrari was not meant for racing. It was, however, one of the most elegant Ferraris ever to hit the road and drew the admiration of actor Steve McQueen, who's well known Marrone Metallizzato 250GT Lusso went up for sale at auction in 2007 and sold for over $2.3 million. Power came from a 3.0 liter "Colombo" 60 degree V12 engine producing 240 horsepower, backed up by a double wishbone suspension at the front and disc brakes all around. Inside, the car was not for everyone, as the fixed back seats required a certain driving position suited to more flexible owners. The pedals, as in many Ferraris of the time, were slightly adjustable. This Lusso for sale in New York is a fine example of this rolling sculpture from the 1960s.

1963 Ferrari 250GT Lusso

1963 Ferrari 250GTL Lusso Gray with Red interior. Motor is completely rebuilt. Older restoration. Mechanically superb. One of only 350 250GTL's ever to be made. Here is your chance to own one for only $725,000.

At first glance I thought this might have been the 250GT Lusso featured on Chasing Classic Cars with Wayne Carini, but the car featured on the show had a tan interior. At $725,000, this is priced just about right for an older restoration Lusso. It's certainly not museum quality like the McQueen Ferrari, but for someone who wants to enjoy their high end classic car investment, you can't split the middle much better than with an example like this.

-Paul

Ferrari, Uncategorized

1965 ASA 1000 GT

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Having realized success in the sports car and grand touring market on the coattails of a powerhouse racing team, Enzo Ferrari sought to introduce a car that would compete with sports cars that were a bit less expensive. One caveat, though, was that he did not want to slap a Ferrari badge on this car. Instead, he sold the production rights to the De Nora Electrochemical Group, which in turn marketed the new sports car under the ASA badge, short for Autocostruzioni Societa per Azioni.

The 1000 GT, as it was called, was a remarkable little sports car. Featuring an overhead cam, 1,032 cc four-cylinder engine designed by Ferrari, this powerplant was essentially part of what was originally a Colombo V12, and included the trademark clothes pin valves and was fed via two Weber 40 DCOE9 carburetors. Other forward thinking engineering touches included double wishbone suspension at the front end along with disc brakes at all four corners. The ASA 1000 GT would foreshadow the later Dino Ferraris in bringing exotic engineering to less well heeled customers. Fewer than 100 of these 1000 GT coupes were ever made and finding one in great condition like this one in California is a rare treat.

1965 ASA 1000 GT

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The ASA 1000 GT was evolved from a concept for a small Ferrari in 1959. Eventually the rights for the design were transferred to Auto costruzioni Societa per Azioni, which was organised to produce the small GT. Under the shapely Giugiaro designed Bertone body was a chassis and engine by Giotto Bizzarini. Up front, it was supported by wishbones and coil springs with a live rear axle sporting helical springs and telescopic, hydraulic shock absorbers with reaction sprags. To complete the suspension the ASA received four wheel disc brakes. The jewel of an engine was an OHC four-cylinder unit displacing 1032 cubic centimetres and producing approximately 96 horsepower through a pair of Weber carburetors. This may not sound like much but, but in 1962 when the ASA was announced, the 1798cc MGB only generated 95hp and the base 1290cc Alfa Romeo Giulietta pumped out 91hp.

Compared to cars with similar engine displacement there was little comparison. The lovely crackle-finished ohc four was mated to a slick four speed transmission and like the best Italian engines the little OHC was born to rev. The interior leaves no doubt that the ASA 1000 GT is a true driver's car. The Nardi steering wheel offers a clear view of the large Jaeger tachometer, speedometer and five auxiliary gauges. With comfortable bucket seats and a roomy, well finished cockpit, it was clear that this was not an inexpensive car. Price proved to be the primary obstacle that faced this supremely competent automobile. In 1964, the price was approaching $6000 in the States. Not only was this tremendously expensive for a one-litre car in 1964, it was several hundred dollars more than a new Jaguar E-Type and about the same price as the brutally fast A.C. Cobra.

By 1967, the venture was terminated with fewer than 100 cars having been built. Eleven of these were officially produced in Spider form according to factory records of which a mere four survive today. The example I am proud to offer here is one of fixed head versions and looks great from most angles. The original numbers matching car was subject to a complete restoration on the East Coast back in 1991 to 1993. After completion the car participated in two New England 1000 Road Rallies where the car performed flawlessly. The car was subsequently sold to the previous owner in 1996 here in California where it spent much of its life garaged by its big brother, a beautiful Ferrari Lusso. After 15 years of hibernation I have brought this fantastic car back to life. Although the restoration is 20 years old it still presents well overall. The overall paint quality would be considered drivers status with minor flaws (minor bubbling due to prep flaws and minor chips from 20 years of life) the paint still has great shine and will hold its own at any Cars and Coffee. The trim and chrome looks near new, the interior still looks fresh with the leather soft and undamaged. All the Jaeger gauges function properly other than the clock. Car has just been inspected and serviced by a well respected shop in Los Angeles, Alfa Italia (they have been servicing vintage and classic Italian cars for over 20 years) which included; a complete flushing of the fuel, cooling and brake systems, a complete rebuild of the Weber carbs, new stainless exhaust, new axle seals and front wheel bearings, brand new period tires, a valve adjustment and of course fresh fluids throughout. These are unique cars that rarely make it to the open market, do not hesitate to bid or email me with any questions or requests you may have. (Original airbox is included in sale with misc. articles, notes from previous owners, and recent service history)

Short write up in Sports Car Digest:

http://www.sportscardigest.com/cars-for-sale/greatness-by-another-name-1965-asa-1000-gt/

For additional details visit: WWW.ASAREGISTER.COM

This 1000 GT coupe looks a bit like a Glass 1700GT has mated with a Maserati Mistral. Originally designed to be more affordable than your average Ferrari, these ASAs are now just as valuable as their bigger cousins. Given their rarity, it is hard to place values on such things, but a 1967 example sold for $81,400 at RM Auctions back in 2006. Six years later, it will be interesting to see if a similar example warrants an almost $40,000 premium over that figure. I would suspect a figure closer to $100,000 might be more realistic.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1986 Ferrari Testarossa

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Scouring through the ads and auctions every week, I come across many cars that are described as being the best. While there's been some undoubtedly clean examples of all types of Italian iron on CICFS, I think it's going to be hard to find a better Ferrari Testarossa than this one brought to our attention by it's owner, Rick. A 1986 example, this car has racked up numerous awards at prominent Italian car shows and is being offered for sale at auction next month in Monterey, California. Among the many awards this car has won, it secured "Best Ferrari" at Concorso Italiano in 2011. A rather impressive achievement by an equally impressive '80s icon.

1986 Ferrari Testarossa

1986 Ferrari Testarossa, Monterey 2012, Consignment # 2033, VIN: ZFFSA17A1G0064537

Launched at the 1984 Paris show, the Testarossa was aimed directly at the American market as a GT with the ability to gobble up long stretches of pavement with amazing aplomb. The car was immediately praised by the automotive press as Ferrari's best road car to date and one that was far more stylish than the Boxer it replaced. In the early years, the Testarossa was so popular that buyer frenzy fueled additional dealer markups, which peaked at about $150,000.

With its over-the-top straked sides and the "flying mirror", the early Testarossa became an icon of the 1980's. Power for this "Red Head" came from its 4.9 liter mid-engined Flat-12 which developed 390 HP and made it the fastest regular production car in the world in 1986. The Testarossa is a perpetually desirable sports car with an unmistakable design that still stops traffic and turns heads more than 25 years later.

On offer is the 1986 Testarossa, S/N 64537, which is arguably the best example in existence – evidenced by the awards it garnered in 2011.

2011 Concorso Italiano held in Monterey, CA
- WINNER, "Best Ferrari"
- WINNER, "Platinum"
- WINNER, "Preservation Award"
- RUNNER-UP, "Best in Show"

"Best Ferrari" - let that sink in for a moment. Concorso Italiano is one of the most important Italian exotic car shows in the world. There were literally hundreds of Ferraris competing including the "halo cars" (288 GTO, F40, F50, Enzo), Daytonas, Dinos, etc. All of them were asked to bow and curtsey to the mighty Testarossa on that day in August of 2011.

But the awards don't stop there. This Testarossa is undefeated on the car show circuit.

2011 Bella Italia held in San Diego, CA
- WINNER, "Best in Class"

2011 Del Mar Concours d'Elegance held in Del Mar, CA
- WINNER, "Best Italian Sportscar"

This Testarossa wears Nero Metallizato (901/C) on the outside – a very rare factory color. The interior features a black dash, cream colored Connolly leather and brown carpets. This color combination is quite possibly the most attractive you will ever see on a Testarossa. Originally delivered in August 1986 to a gentleman in Seattle, WA, it quickly traded hands and has been a California car ever since (25+ years). When the car was acquired by the current owner in late 2010, it had not been driven in nearly 15 years. Unwilling to take any chances, the owner had it rolled off the trailer and straight onto the lift for a full engine out service to the tune of $12k (completed in January 2011). Since that time, it was lovingly run-in past the 3,000 mile mark (per original specifications) and subsequently driven up the coast of California to collect a trunkful of awards at Concorso Italiano.

Built in late 1986, this Testarossa is equipped with 16 inch single lug Speedline wheels. The car is as it left the factory with no modifications or after-market parts; a true time capsule with all tools, books, keys, service history, original sticker, spare wheel and accessories. The full 6 piece set of tan Schedoni luggage ordered from the factory by the owner in 1987 (complete with receipt) is also included. There is something truly magical about a 12 cylinder, mid-engined Ferrari. Your piece of perfection awaits.

After speaking with Rick, it's apparent that he's rather proud of this motor. He had also pointed out that a 1990 Testarossa with 900 miles had just sold at Mecum Auto Auctions in May for $101,000. That car would most certainly need an engine out service that has already been completed on our feature car as of last year. Along with the provenance, awards and condition, if the right people are in the room, I can see this car possibly bringing six figures. Even though most clean Testarossas are bringing between $55,000 and $70,000 these days, this car presents very well and is no doubt a known vehicle in Ferrari circles due to the amount of awards in its corner.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic, Theme Week

Theme Week: A Tribute to Sergio Pininfarina: 1985 Ferrari 288GTO

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To close our theme week dedicated to Sergio Pininfarina, I thought I would select one of his most striking designs: the Ferrari 288GTO. Named the number two sports car of the 1980s behind its rival, the Porsche 959, this car was curiously tied to the 959 by way of the the Group B race series. While the competed in the series, the 288GTO never turned a wheel in Group B. Still, it's nice to dream about what could have been, especially with a car that packs a 2.8 liter, twin turbocharged V8 pumping out 400 horsepower and catapulting the car to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Heady numbers for the period indeed. This particular 288GTO is owned by British radio personality Chris Evans and is part of his famous White Collection that was recently featured on Top Gear.

1985 Ferrari 288GTO

Chris Evans' 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO LHD. White blue interior. It is one of Ferrari’s great cars and only 272 examples were made. 440 bhp,2855 cc mid mounted engine with dual overhead camshafts,twin turbo chargers and fuel injection.This stunning example had a ground up restoration costing more than £100,000 in 2009. It is like taking delivery of a new car and is one of the famous White Collection belonging to well known radio and tv presenter Chris Evans.

Launched: Geneva 1984. Body designed by Pininfarina, built by Ferrari 90' V8, 80 X 71mm, 2855cc, 400bhp at 7000rpm, 366ft/lbs torque at 3800rpm. Longitudinal mid engine with tin over head camshafts, four valves per cylinder and twin IHI turbochargers. Five-speed all synchromesh gearbox. Electronic fuel injection and ignition by Weber/Marelli together. Dry sump lubrication. Independent front and rear suspension. Disc brakes. Tubular steel chassis with body and other parts made from fibreglass. Kevlar, carbon fibre, Nomex and aluminium honeycomb. Wheelbase 8'5". This car is left hand drive.

I can't think of many cars that strike a better balance between grace and muscle than the 288GTO. Between $650,000 and $800,000 is where values currently stand for these brutes. The 288GTO alone is a rare vehicle, with under 300 examples ever being constructed. The unique color may not be to everyone's taste but along with the provenance, it will probably drive the price up a bit from more ordinary GTOs. The price isn't advertised but as the old adage goes, if you have to ask, you can't afford it.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic, Theme Week

Theme Week: A Tribute to Sergio Pininfarina: 1987 Ferrari Testarossa

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A high point in Sergio Pininfarina's career was the Ferrari Testarossa, introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1984. The car was a replacement for the Berlinetta Boxer and its name stood for red head in Italian, a reference to the car's red cam covers and a tribute to the Testa Rossa GT cars of the late 1950s and early 1960s. One of the most instantly recognizable Ferraris of all time, the trademark side strakes feeding the radiators and wide rear section made a dramatic styling statement in an era where such brash aesthetics were welcomed. This car is for sale in California and underwent a major service in early 2008.

1987 Ferrari Testarossa

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1987 Ferrari Testarossa, VIN: ZFFSG17A1H0069267, Rosso Corsa with Tan Leather

Upon its introduction in late 1984, the Testarossa stunned the world with its avant garde styling. Long low and wide, the Testarossa appeared even more so thanks to the extensive use of horizontal slatting, a feature that would be replicated both on other Ferraris and on many other lesser cars. Yet beneath these striking features was a surprisingly organic and handsome form that remains as arresting today as it was twenty years ago. Motivated by a new four valve version of Ferrari`s horizontally opposed twelve cylinder engine that made 390hp, the car was quick and made fantastic noises, but was also very plush with leather almost everywhere, including on the rear shelf, headliner, and visors. The trunk is reasonably sized and the car very comfortable and easy to drive, making it an ideal way to cover long distances at high speeds in comfort. Many Testarossa owners use them regularly and there are many owners with cars having covered over 125,000 miles, and even an example with over 200,000 miles!

This particular car has covered just 25,000 miles, and was sold new in California. In the hands of the present owner since 1992, it has enjoyed a single ownership period for nearly its entire life. In January of 2008, at 24,464 (just 1,100 miles ago), a major engine-out belt service was completed by Alfamilano Inc in Los Angeles, California, which totaled $8,610.90 including the replacement of the hood struts, recharging the air conditioning system, and replacing the shifter cover seal to the transaxle. It is current on its service at this time.

The car is in good mechanical order, and runs and drives well. Cosmetically, it is best described as a nice driver, as there are a handful of minor paint and body blemishes about the car, typical of 25 year old automobiles. The interior is very nice, benefiting from the car’s low mileage. The dash exhibits minimal shrinkage, which is common to Ferrari of this era. The front carpets have been replaced with lambs wool overlays. Both the carpeted front storage area, and the engine bay, are in beautiful condition. This car sits on factory wheels, which are in good condition. Included with the sale are the books, tools, jack, bulb set, and records for the Alfamilano Inc. major service.

This is a great opportunity to acquire one of these very neat and important cars. Their astonishing styling still carries tremendous impact, and they are modern, practical, and easy enough to drive to use on a regular basis. This car has been in California for most of its life and represents a great way to enjoy the Ferrari experience as often as possible for the new owner. Moreover, with values of these cars stabilized and are beginning to go up, lower mileage examples such as this one can be a rationally appealing proposition as well.

An average Testarossa of this vintage will usually bring around $55,000 to $60,000, with the best examples glancing the $70,000 mark. Given that one owner possessed this car for about 20 years, this would be a good car to buy. Even though it hasn't covered many miles since the service, time is not kind to any machine of this caliber. A service could be lurking in another few years, the price of which should be factored in to the purchase price.

-Paul