Tag Archives: Testarossa

1987 Ferrari Testarossa

April 24, 2014 Graham

As I sit here and write this, it's hard for me to conceptualize that fairly bare-bones Porsche 911 models from the 1970s and some from the 1990s, such as the RS America, are currently worth more than a Ferrari Testarossa. After all, until 1987 and the launch of the twin-turbocharged F40, the Testarossa briefly was top of the heap at Ferrari. It was a luxurious, ludicrously fast GT/supercar with a mid-mounted flat-12 that made it so, so wide - and so, so cool. If you were into posters in the 1980s, this car might not have made your wall - that was reserved for the Lamborghini Countach - but the less flamboyant Testarossa was the one you wanted to drive. It was faster than the Countach, too...because, of course, of those classic red valve covers from which it derives its name. Red is always faster, and this is one fast Ferrari:

Year: 1987
Model: Testarossa
Engine: 5.0 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 40,260 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1987 Ferrari Testarossa

1987

FERRARI

TESTAROSSA

ROSSO CORSA OVER BEIGE LEATHER

HIGHLY DESIRABLE EUROPEAN MODEL WITHOUT THE RESTRICTIVE US EMMISSIONS EQUIPMENT, DOOR INTRUSION BARS, AND AUTOMATIC (AND CONSTANTLY PROBLEMATIC) SEAT MICE

JUST RECEIVED A COMPLETE ENGINE OUT SERVICE INCLUDING NEW BELTS, ROLLERS, TENSIONERS, WATER PUMP, CLUTCH AND A NEW MODENA ENGINEERING DIFFERENTIAL AND SIDE CARRIER

ICE COLD FACTORY R12 BASED AIR CONDITIONING WORKS FLAWLESSLY

THE MOTOR AND ENGINE BAY WAS DETAILED TO SHOW QUALITY WHILE OUT OF THE CAR, INCLUDING REFINISHING THE SUBFRAME, ALL SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, AND THE KONI SHOCKS AND SPRINGS.

AS A EUROPEAN MODEL, eBAY WILL NOT RECOGNIZE THE VIN, WHICH IS:
ZFFAA17B000069441

YOU WILL NOT FIND A NICER, MORE THOROUGHLY SERVICED TESTAROSSA ANYWHERE. THIS CAR RUNS AND DRIVES EVEN BETTER THAN IT LOOKS.

PLEASE BE PATIENT AND ALLOW ALL THE PICTURES TO LOAD - WE HAVE FULL PHOTO DOCUMENTATION OF THE ENTIRE SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH

PLEASE CALL US AT 954-958-0000 WITH ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS CAR OR OUR TRADE-IN POLICY

If you really want to get into one of these Testarossa, you can do it the hard and expensive way, or you can do it the easy and expensive way. Finding a good condition car that has recently been serviced is certainly a plus, as is the European build of this car - it lacks the annoying automatic seatbelt frames on the door and was lighter and slightly more powerful than the U.S. version. Of course, 25 plus years later registering it should be no issue. The color combination is classic and condition seems to be top with plenty of recent overhauling; and with Testarossa values hovering below $65,000, you're getting a lot of car for the money; certainly more than you'd get with many cars that cost twice as much. It's an 80s icon that is currently under appreciated, and consequently undervalued even compared to its stablemates!

-Carter

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1992 Ferrari 512TR

April 4, 2014 Graham

If you wanted a poster car in the 1980s, you bought a Lamroghini Countach. If you wanted one of the fastest, best driving cars in the world though, you bought the Ferrari Testarossa. A revival of the classic "red head" name, the original Testarossas were front engine racers with little to do with the flat-12, mid-engined GT road car that Ferrari produced in the 1980s. Still, the name was evocative enough to spur on sales, as was the classic shape. An evolution of the 512BBi, the Testarossa would take Ferrari all the way into the 1990s; and while by then it was a dated design eclipsed by more poster super cars, the appeal and classic design of the Testarossa still shines today. While the Countach can look almost vulgar in its excess, the Testarossa is a velvet hammer. This example is from mid-run and the first year of the "512TR":

Year: 1992
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 32,535 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1992 Ferrari 512TR

1992 Ferrari 512TR in Nero Black over Black Leather.

No Reserve !

Very hard to find. Only 32.550 miles. Very good condition. This car has always been stored indoors, the AC blows ice cold and hard even on the hottest day I can drive and keep cool. Major Service Just done 200 miles ago, New engine oil, replaced oil filter, replaced transmission oil, new replaced spark plugs, replaced new brake master cylinder with Ate brake fluid and new stainless steel brake line. Rear brake cooling hoses has been replaced and other… Wheel alignment done 1500mile before. This 512TR has Tubi sport exhaust system. I don’t have stock exhaust.all scheduled services and maintenance has been routinely done and it shows in the way this car drives and performs, as well as the aesthetic of the engine bay undercarriage and all suspension and brake parts. Replaced audio, new Boss radio video CD player with Bluetooth. Installed remote control door lock system. Installed aluminum brake and clutch and gas pedal.The books, manuals, and 3 keys. The Nero Black Ferrari paint still retains that original deep, glistening look and the interior leather still has the powdery soft feel it had when it was new. There is a small window of opportunity on this Ferrari. This 512TR come with made in Italy speed line 3 piece wheels. 18X9.5 for front with 255 size tires. 18X11 for rear with 295 size tire. All tires are good shape. If you interested in please contact me by email zielsports@gmail.com

3/24/14 10;50pm additional information

Timing belt has been replace when mileage was 22228.

Fuse box has been replaced when mileage was 21439.

AC system full maintenance when mileage was 29914. AC work strong.

Manufacture recall issued replace L&R seat belt full system from Ferrari dealer.

No accident, no frame damaged from car fax record.

Thanks

These 512TRs are arguably the best looking of the breed; I'm not a fan of the 512 M that followed, though it was faster. This one looks lovely and is rare in double black, and the Speedline Mistral three piece wheels are just awesome and a perfect fit. With plenty of recent maintenance, this is certainly a strong example to look at and should likely command in the $100,000 region. While that may seem like a lot, my guess is clean examples of these won't be getting much cheaper anytime soon!

-Carter

Ferrari

A Trio of Ferrari 512TRs

November 18, 2013 Graham 5 Comments

The Ferrari Testarossa was the poster child for ‘80s era excesses. Few realize, however, that this wide-hipped, twelve cylinder bruiser lasted until 1995 through two model changeovers. My favorite of all of them, however, is the 512TR. Much like the 964 version of the Porsche 911, the 512TR smoothed out the classic Pininfarina formula with better integrated bumpers, updated alloy wheels and some updated interior trim and switchgear. At the request of one of our readers, Mark, let’s take a look at three different 512TRs for sale currently. First up is this red 1994 model for sale in California.

Year: 1994
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 21,700 mi
Price: $112,000 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1994 Ferrari 512TR

1994 Ferrari 512 TR Testarossa. Red exterior, Tan interior. ABS Brakes, custom clear engine cover, excellent condition with only 21,700 California only driven miles. A rare beauty, priced to sell. Please contact me with any questions. Serious buyers only. Local pickup only. I have many more pictures, please contact me and I will send them to you.

Next up we have a yellow 1992 512TR for sale in Northern Virginia.

Year: 1992
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 18,054 mi
Price: $109,900 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1992 Ferrari 512TR

1992 Ferrari 512TR. Only 18,084 actual miles! Extremely rare Giallo Fly Yellow exterior and Nero leather interior! This 512TR is 1 of 5 yellow Testarossa's listed on the Testarossa, 512TR, 512M registry.

This rare 512TR is absolutely drop dead gorgeous! It looks and smells like new, it has been meticulously maintained and just underwent an extensive engine out service that included the change of timing belts and bearings, valve adjustment, replacement of cam seals and replacement of all fluids at 17,800 miles on September 26, 2013! The service was performed by Blackhorse Motor Sports in Los Angeles California. As you know, this service is necessary and extremely important so you can have the level of confidence when purchasing this 512TR! The engine was also meticulously detailed during the service while the engine was out of the car.

The 512TR is considered an iconic Ferrari. There are very few Ferrari models that were built that boasted a rear V12 engine! This is one of the last of those rare models. The car drives beautifully and is in exceptional condition inside and out. Upgrades include Tubi exhaust, yellow Brembo brake calipers and a state of the art sound system by Sony that includes a removable face located in the hidden dash compartment.

The brakes work perfectly and the clutch is in excellent condition. All suspension components are in perfect condition. There are no known mechanical issues. The transmission shifts smoothly, the power windows and all console switches work as they should and the heat blows warm and the A/C blows cold! The doors, trunk and engine hatch open as new with no flaws. I would not hesitate to drive this car cross country!

This 512TR is an exceptional value and prices are expected to continue rising on these iconic vehicles since the rear engine V12 Ferrari is a rare breed. Please see my feedback and bid with confidence!

Lastly, we have this black 512TR for sale in St. Louis.

Year: 1993
Model: 512TR
Engine: 4.9 liter flat-12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 16,782 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1993 Ferrari 512TR

You are viewing a superb example of the 1993 Ferrari 512 TR finished in Nero (solid Black) over Black leather. It has just arrived back with us from a much valued repeat-client of ours who purchased it from us in 2011. It is, as it was before, in absolutely fantastic cosmetic and mechanical condition both inside and out with everything operating as designed.

This 1993 512TR with just 16,782 miles driven from new has obviously been very well cared for in its entire twenty years and it is an absolute delight to drive. When we sold this 1993 512TR to our local Doctor client back in 2011 we performed the factory recommended services due at that time ‘by-the-book’ @15,776 miles totalling $9,941.15, pictures are shown from that time showing the engine out of the car and in our clean-room.

Please call me if you would like to discuss the service documentation as it is too much to list on this ad. The documentation I have, will of course come with the car when you take delivery. It comes complete with the original owner’s portfolio containing the owners manuals and service books plus the original window sticker in perfect condition is present.

The 512 was only brought into the USA for 3 model years and finding one just as nice as this must be very difficult. This one is has the must-have TR upgrade of (a polished stainless steel Tubi exhaust system) plus the modern convenience of a beautifully installed Passport rear view mirror with radar detector, speed reading sensors, GPS Navigation, Bluetooth telephone and Sirius Satellite radio.

* I can arrange enclosed delivery of this 512TR anywhere within days of our consummated transaction so please call me to determine your final cost.

* I can take your vehicle as a trade-in against this Ferrari, so please call me with the details and we can get the process started. Call Mark Wetzel of St. Louis Motorcars / Cell 314-853-2364

If it were my coin, I’d probably snag the black 512TR. True, Rosso Corsa is the classic Ferrari hue, but a sinister looking car calls for a stealth look. In any case though, these Testarossas from the early 1990s have me pining for the days of proper gated gearboxes and flamboyant styling cues that have either been watered down or eliminated in an era of ever tightening regulation.

-Paul

Ferrari

1986 Ferrari Testarossa

April 25, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Like the Alfa Romeo Spider, Lamborghini Countach and Fiat Cinquecento, the Ferrari Testarossa is one of those Italian icons that is instantly recognizable even to those who aren't automotive enthusiasts. This early Testarossa for sale in Colorado was originally a California car and benefits from a recent engine out service.

1986 Ferrari Testarossa

This is an incredible opportunity to own an investment grade original example of a classic 1986 Ferrari Testarossa with only 24,538 miles! This car had a full engine out belt service one year ago and is completely up to date with all services. Compare this Ferrari to any other Testarossa on the market today and you will not be disappointed with what you see.

VIN ZFFSA17A5G0060281

This Testarossa has the most desirable red/tan color combination and is a California car since new! All service is current and most recently had a full engine out service in southern California (documentation included - see picture below). Clean Carfax and Autocheck reports included with sale or run your own. This Ferrari has an impeccably clean history with no dings, dents or scratches whatsoever. Truly as clean as they get. Hemmings Magazine has voted these Ferraris as a desirable investment car and one to watch (see article below)!

Buy it now before prices go up. This is the most inexpensive Ferrari on the market today with under 25,000 miles! Don't miss your chance. The tires have only 200 miles on them and are Michelin TRX Radials ($2,000).

280/45/15 IN THE REAR ON 240TR 415 RIMS

240/45/15 IN THE FRONT ON 210TR 415 RIMS

The Ferrari Testarossa is a 12-cylinder mid-engine sports car manufactured by Ferrari, which went into production in 1984 as the successor to the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer. The Testarossa is a two-door coupe with a fixed roof that premiered at the 1984 Paris Auto Show. All versions of the Testarossa had the power fed through the wheels from a rear-mounted, five-speed manual transmission. The Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout (engine between the axles but behind the cabin) keeps the centre of gravity in the middle of the car, which increases stability and improves the car's cornering ability, and thus results in a standing weight distribution of 40% front: 60% rear.

The Testarossa name, which means "red head" in Italian, comes from the red-painted cam covers on the flat-12 engine. The double entendre with a red-headed woman was intentional – Ferrari and Pininfarina regularly use descriptive terms related to a female's body when describing the style of their automobiles.

Testarossa prices are at an all-time low. A little over a decade ago, these cars were closing in on six figures, but now you can regularly snag one for about half of that price. Expect to pay between $45,000 and $55,000 for a good, driver quality vehicle with anywhere between 15,000 and 40,000 miles on the clock. While they aren't cheap to run or service, these are some of the most iconic cars to wear the Prancing Horse badge of all time. If you have been itching to own one, now is a good time to pull the trigger.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

March 12, 2013 Graham

This 1991 Ferrari Testarossa for sale in Ohio represents the final year for the original, striking, wide-fendered design from the mid 1980s. This example is a European model that was originally delivered to Belgium and barring that the looks place this car two to three decades back, looks refreshingly modern in Grizio Metallic over red leather.

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

1991 Ferrari Testarossa Euro model. The Best rare color combo and the final year. This incredible car has just completed a thorough restoration to the highest standard. 38,000 miles fresh 30k engine out service. The body is straight as an arrow and the paint quality is superb. This Testarossa is straighter and has nicer paint quality than from the factory. Drivability is outstanding; everything works, as it should. The following is a partial list of new items that were installed. Never any damage or frame repair. Being a Euro VIN I could not enter into ebay correct VIN is ZFFAA17B000089266

1. Wheels were media blasted, powder coated twice and painted to original spec.
2. Every emblem on the car was replaced with new. (wheel center caps, pinan farina side emblems, Ferrari and Testarossa emblems, front badge, front and rear horses.)
3. All new rubber including door gaskets, window channels, hood and tailgate gaskets, window trim, and so on.
4. New front windscreen. In order to properly disassemble the car for paint the windshield was removed and replaced with new.
5. New front fog and turn light lenses (one fog lamp had a small crack prior to replacement)
6. Most interior carpet replaced with new, what wasn’t replaced I have new.
7. Left front underbody AC screen panel new.
8. Most fasteners replaced with new stainless or anodized with plastic locking nuts.
9. New Michelin Pilot Sport tires or tyres. The only matched set currently available from Longstones in the UK.
10. Fresh 30k engine out timing belt service 2012 preformed in FL by Black Horse. Fresh engine reseal.
11. New Brake rotors and pads, overhauled and refinished calipers
12. Recent clutch.
13. Fresh oil change Mobile 1 15/50
14. New plugs, fuel filters and air filter.
15. Rear diff and brake fluids just changed.
16. Car was disassembled, stripped and refinished to its current stellar condition.

This is a partial list, but safe to say if a part was available from Ferrari it was replaced. Painted with PPG in correct Grizio Metallic. Pristine show quality, mechanically fresh approximately 200 miles since restoration. The only non OEM items installed on the car are a stebro exhaust system with pre cats removed (I have them and they are included) Cats are installed. The Stebro exhaust and removal of pre cats allow the system to operate at a cooler temp, with less fatigue and free flow. The sound is awesome, definitely more DB’s than stock, but civilized. The engine sings with this setup although, if you prefer the pre cats can easily be reinstalled. This was the last year of the Testarossa and the first year for the TR. Far more invested than BIN

History

The car was ordered by a US buyer to Belgium, and was delivered to Texas in 1991 where it stayed until about 2003 when it moved to NJ and then Pompano, FL. I purchased the car in nice original condition in FL and moved it to Dublin, OH where we completed the restoration 5/2012 The car was ordered us spec, so MPH on Speedo, but odometer is in KM.

The asking price of $62,500 is leaning towards the higher end of what one could expect to pay for a Testarossa of this vintage and mileage. Anything under $50,000 should be approached with caution, and cars that close in on $70,000 should be the best of the best or a later 512TR or F512M. This car has had an impressive amount of repairs and maintenance items addressed, but it would be worth checking to see if this car could be registered in your state properly, given this isn't a US market car. Since it's been here in the states a while, I wouldn't suspect it would be too much of a problem.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1995 Ferrari F512M

February 13, 2013 Graham 6 Comments

By 1995, it seemed as if time had passed the Testarossa by, with more organic shapes coming into the sports car mix while the wedge shapes of the 1980s faded away. Nevertheless, Ferrari gave this wide fendered sports car a final send off with the F512M in 1994. With updated styling, exposed headlamps and a slight increase in horsepower, it gave this Pininfarina masterpiece one last shout before riding off into the sunset. This red F512M for sale in Florida is like most F512Ms, in that it has been pampered and covered less than 10,000 miles.

1995 Ferrari F512M

This 1995 Ferrari 512 M, finished Rosso Corsa with Tan leather interior, black overlays and black dashboard. The Ferrari TR was the most commercially succesful Ferrari has ever built. To reward the American Ferrari dealer body, Ferrari decided to build a limited edition final production TR, 512M , producing a total of just 75 cars, this one being # 22/75. Complete with all service records since new, original manuals, 2 original keys, tool kit and jack. This car has had 2 belt services within the 9,988 miles it has travelled, all recommended services by the factory and all recalls have been done. This car is as good as it gets. Finished in the most popular color combination, maintained exactly to factory specification, Sure to appreciate, a must for any serious Ferrari collector!

Car History

S/n 100626. Full VIN: ZFFVG40A6S0100626. F512 M. USA model. Number 22 of 75 built. New in Red with Tan leather.

1995, March, new to Ferrari of San Francisco, 595 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, CA, 94941. As per original window sticker, priced at $195,750.

1995, 25 Mar., sold new by Ferrari of San Francisco to Steve Zelencik, Woodside, CA, 94072. Salesman: David Hellmann.

1995, 18 May, serviced under warranty for rattle in driver’s door, oil leak, install radio and CD player, A coupon warranty service, install radar detector, by Ferrari of San Francisco. Mileage: 1,152.

1995, 20 Dec., letter from Ferrari North America confirming this F512 M is number 22/75 built.

1995, 30 Nov., Speedline modular wheel assembly bolt recall by FNA.

1996, 15 Mar., wheel recall done under warranty by Ferrari of San Francisco. Tubi exhaust installed. Total service bill $4,568.50. Mileage: 2,224.

1996, 20 June, oil and filter service by Ferrari San Francisco, total bill $182.53. Mileage: 3,057.

1997, 15 May, oil and filter service, new battery, trickle charger installed, brake fluid and transaxle fluid replaced by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $1,150. Mileage: 4,065.

1998, 17 Mar., oil and filter service and detail by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $370.11. Mileage: 4,719.

1999, 23 Feb., oil and filter service, engine coolant, windshield washer fluid service, smog service, remove dash pod for leather repair, sublet recover instrument pod, by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $2,164.75.

1999, 23 Feb., smog check by In n out Auto Service, Campbell, CA. Mileage: 5,424.

2000, 15 Mar., oil and filter service, chassis service, fuel additive, anti–freeze service, check clock, check for wheel vibration, check for rattle, by Ferrari of Los Gatos, $757.10. Mileage: 5,822

2001, 08 Feb., 30,000 mile major service, remove and re–install engine, new cam belts and belt tensioners, new cam cover gaskets, torque heads, all fluids changed, replace all four tires with Michelin Pilot Sport, rebuild water pump, by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $7,826.36. Mileage 6,423

2002, 15 Mar., oil and filter service, hood struts replaced by Ferrari of Los Gatos, $781.10. Mileage: 7,410

2003, 04 Feb., smog emissions check for California smog check by Bentley of Silicon Valley. Mileage: 7,897.

2003, 30 June, serviced for seat belt recall, annual fluids change, adjust headlights, detail vehicle, by Ferrari of San Francisco. Mileage: 8,197.

2006, 29 Dec., 9,000 mile or annual service including oil, filter, coolant, transaxle fluid, windshield washer fluid, brake check by Ferrari of Silicon Valley. Total service bill: $2,075.64. Mileage: 8,277.

2006, 29 Dec., inspected and photographed by M. Sheehan.

2007, January, smog emissions check for California smog check. Mileage: 9,324.

2007, July, Engine Out Major Service Performed. Mileage: 9,409.

2009, November, 2 Year Service Performed. Mileage: 9,545.

2010, January, After Market Exhaust Replaced With Factory Muffler. Removed Radar Detector and Wires. Undercarriage and Wheel Liners Cleaned. Mileage: 9,631.

2010, October, Yearly Service Performed. Mileage: 9,909.

2011, November, Two Year Mayor Service Performed, Timing Belt Service Performed. Bill: $10,799.30 Mileage: 9,964.

2012, November, Yearly Service Performed. Mileage: 9,984.

This is one of the most comprehensive ads I've come across in a while. A detailed history such as this is paramount when buying a classic Italian exotic with such low mileage. The last F512M we featured was priced at $167,495 and had almost identical mileage. While most Testarossas have a hard time breaking six figures, it seems the F512Ms are bringing more serious coin. Personally, I'd rather have the original Testarossa, but perhaps the exclusivity that comes with having one of the last of the breed means something to certain collectors.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1993 Ferrari 512TR

January 23, 2013 Graham 1 Comment

We featured a Ferrari F512M last Friday and the same dealer now has that car's predecessor for sale: the 512TR. This car is slightly more used with close to 30,000 miles on the clock, but with less fussier styling and in classic Rosso Corsa, it doesn't disappoint.

1992 Ferrari 512TR

Very clean 512TR. Fresh timing belt service by us. Red with tan. This is the more advanced version of the Testarossa.

I prefer the looks of the 512TR over the F512M, even if it is down a little bit of horsepower, as it pays better homage to Pininfarina's original vision for the Testarossa. You can't argue that these cars have presence, no matter how brash you think they might be. Given the mileage, the seller is a little optimistic on the pricing, as we'd probably struggle to reach six figures on a good day. Somewhere between $80,000 to $95,000 would be more realistic for this red head.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1995 Ferrari F512M

January 18, 2013 Graham 1 Comment

The mid 1990s were a time of change at Ferrari, as the company began favoring front engined sports cars once again. In 1995, we were witnessing the Testarossa's last stand in the form of the F512M. Only 500 of the "final" Testarossa were produced, this time with exposed headlamps, a revised front bumper resembling the F355, a restyled rear light cluster and power from the 4.9 liter flat-12 upgraded to 440 horsepower. Reviews were mixed with many enthusiasts preferring Pininfarina's original interpretation from 1984. This menacing black example for sale in Illinois has covered under 10,000 miles.

1995 Ferrari F512M

A low mile rare 512M. Award winning ultra clean example we have serviced for many years. The ultimate example in the evolution of the Testarossa. Fresh belt service. All books and keys. A classic for the serious Ferrari collector.

A clean, low mileage, first generation Testarossa will run you between $50,000 to $75,000 or so, so the asking price of over $167,000 for what is a very similar car is a bit hard to stomach, no matter how showroom fresh. True, the F512M is worth more and this car has had its belt service, but some purists deride the styling over the earlier Testarossa and 512TR. Realistically, this car is worth somewhere around $100,000 to $130,000.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1985 Ferrari Testarossa

January 10, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

The existence of the Testarossa could be boiled down to one thing: a fix. Enzo Ferrari did not want to sell the 512 Berlinetta Boxer stateside because he thought it was a bit too brash and hard edged for US customers. In 1984, the Testarossa debuted and it would become a car that would define the 1980s, even if it lived on in various iterations until 1996. This 1985 Testarossa for sale in California is a very early model with the flying mirror and could possibly be one of the first of its kind to come to the US.

1985 Ferrari Testarossa

1985 Ferrari Testarossa - Recent Major Service

NOTE: This car is a 1985, NOT a 1980. eBay does not recognize the European VIN thus the 1980 in the title of the ad. The original owner of this Testarossa claims the car was the first Testarossa imported into the United States. I am researching more history regarding the origins of the car and will send any details to serious parties. This desirable early Euro flying mirror Testarossa is finished in Argento Metallizzato over Nero leather. Imported and registered properly in California with BAR tags, Cats and 16" center knock-off lug wheels with like new tires and current Smog.

Major service completed Spring 2012 @ 24,615 miles. Comprehensive engine out service included cam belts, tensioners, clutch kit, plugs, O2 sensors, etc. at a total cost of $10,680. Receipts included with sale of vehicle. Cats were previously replaced 05/23/2010. This car is in excellent condition in and out. Beautiful exterior, well preserved interior and the amazingly smooth and powerful flat-12 cylinder! This car is ready to go and needs nothing. Serious buyers only. Asking $52,500 obo.

Send me a message and a phone number and I will call you back. Thanks! Ward

Claiming this is the first Testarossa to set foot in the US is rather bold and certainly I'd want to see more documentation to go along with this. If that is the case, it might add a little bit to the value, but probably not a significant amount more. The asking price is realistic for a Testarossa of this vintage with this kind of mileage, engine out service or not. The fact that the servicing has already been done improves the desirability of this car immensely.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

November 11, 2012 Graham 1 Comment

The 1991 Testarossa was the final shout for the first iteration of the car that symbolized Ferrari in the 1980s. Chiseled Pininfarina lines, wide haunches and a mighty flat-12 cylinder engine came together in a package that was the fantasy of many enthusiasts worldwide. While most were painted red, this silver example for sale in Pennsylvania exudes a bit more subtlety while still remaining rather imposing.

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

What an awesome car for the sports car enthusiast. This car has been owned by the original purchaser from initial delivery in 1991 for a grand total of $181,000.00. It has been garage kept, as one would expect and has never seen harsh weather, unless you consider a sunny summer day to be a bit harsh. This magnificent machine has a very low total of 14,878 miles. A few of the miles have been added by me as I attempt to step up in class. While I continue to discover the truly finest automotive motoring, I am reveling in only the best that this auto presents. The 12 cylinder engine and subtly tuned exhaust makes this car fly and satisfy your ear for the purr that you desire. A most rare color combination for the very last Testarossa model (1984 to 1991) a magnificent silver body with blue leather combine to make this car even more exceptional. Offset chrome rims offer a most distinguishing contrast to the body. This car gets up and goes while being powered by the 12 cylinder (2 independent motors to those in the know) 4.9 litres, 390 HP mid-engine specifications coupled with an extremely smooth 5 speed transmission. The 12 cylinder configuration has 4 valves per cylinder to total 48 valves operating. Doesn't get much better than that.

For those of you who desire more sizzle, as I do, I am now including a bit of interesting info on the Testarossa in general. I have personal memberships in 2 organizations - one being a north American Italian American association and the other, a local Italian club group. Within, we have gifted and knowledgeable people that school me in the finer things of life. And certainly, this automotive wonder does qualify. The term - Testarossa translates to " Red Head" from Italian to English. Ferrari collaborated with Pininfarina S.p.A. - automobile designer and builder - to provide this auto. The Testarossa name, keep in mind - " Red Head" - describes the red painted cam covers. Subtle, but none the less - hot. I could elaborate a bit more on the name and the inferences but this ad is directed to a family audience. The side vented "cheese graters" are fully functional as well as stylish. The car is rear wheel drive with a 40-60 front to rear weight distribution. 0 to 60 in under 6 seconds and a top end of 180 mph. Quick but luxurious, to include hand sewn leather complimented by fine carpeting. The sum and substance to this is the following - I can envision Sophia Loren in the passenger seat beside me at the wheel. However, my wife would object. Have a really fine day as you ponder this offer to propel you into the jet-set crowd.

While it's nice the owner offered up all of this background information, it would have been good policy to delve into the servicing specifics and what maintenance items have been taken care of already. The asking price is just about right for a Testarossa of this vintage and mileage. Bought properly, these are a lot of cars for the money, as they've never been more inexpensive. However, if you don't do your homework, the wrong car could wind up being a costly proposition.

-Paul