On 2 October 1984, Ferrari chose the stage of the famous Lido nightclub in Paris to unveil its radical new Testarossa. The car was then officially exhibited at the Paris Auto Show the following day, and the impact it created was equally spectacular. Even though the Testarossa was an extreme and wild design compared to Ferrari’s previous models, it sold quite well and quickly became an icon of 1980s style.

Penned by Pininfarina, the Testarossa was not only a step forward in design, but a significant improvement in performance. The engine produced 40 more horsepower than that of the 512 BBi, helping the Testarossa accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. Its dramatic side strakes helped to channel air into the dual rear-mounted radiators, which kept both the engine and cabin from overheating.

Ferrari’s engineers also took the time to update the interior to make it more spacious and comfortable over the outgoing model. The Testarossa’s overall width grew by nearly half a foot, and the wheelbase was lengthened by 2.5 inches, giving the car a more menacing stance on the road and also providing more space for its occupants and their luggage. Ferrari produced the Testarossa from 1984 through 1991, over which time 7,177 examples were built.

The example offered is an original U.S.-delivery version finished in the iconic Ferrari color scheme of Rosso Corsa over tan leather. The Testarossa was originally sold through Ferrari of Atlanta on 2 November 1989 to Patrick Thomas of Atlanta, Georgia. It was subsequently purchased by Anders H. Herlitz of Marietta, Georgia, on 9 December 1995. He eventually sold the car back to Ferrari of Atlanta on 13 May 1998 with 8,705 miles. Shortly thereafter, the Testarossa was purchased by restaurateur Stephen P. Marra of Warwick, Rhode Island.

In January 2004 Mr. Marra sold the Ferrari through Fox Valley Motorcars to its most recent owner with only 10,917 miles. The car was imported to Canada and sent to Rock’s Automotive Restoration for sorting, including fluid and filter changes. Two months later the car would return to Rock’s with 11,069 miles for further sorting; the radar detector was removed, the brake and accelerator pedals were adjusted, and a sensor was replaced. It was later brought to Ferrari Maserati of Ontario for warranty work. At that point the car was fully sorted and enjoyed for a number of years. In October 2008 the Testarossa returned to Rock’s Automotive Restoration with 14,203 miles for an oil change and emissions test. In June 2017 it was once again sent to Rock’s Automotive Restoration with 14,225 miles for a comprehensive engine service totaling over CA$26,000. The work included the replacement of the timing belts, for which the invoices are included on file.

Sparingly driven since its most recent service, the car has more recently benefitted from paintwork to the hood and front fender. The Testarossa is accompanied by its original owner’s manuals, tool roll, and binder of invoices and documentation, as well as a rare set of factory Schedoni luggage. Overall the Ferrari remains in wonderful condition and shows less than 15,000 original miles.

Please note that this car is offered on an Arizona title and collection will take place from the Detroit, Michigan, area.