In response to the 1990 launch of Lamborghini’s new Diablo, Ferrari introduced the 512 TR evolution of the Testarossa at the 1992 Geneva show. Outwardly similar to its famous predecessor, the 512 TR featured a refined frontal design similar to the 348, but the major differences were mostly internal. The Testarossa’s horizontally-opposed, 48-valve 12-cylinder engine gained Nikasil cylinder liners, Bosch Motronic engine management, 10.0:1 compression and a more efficient exhaust system. Power output rose from 390-hp to 428-hp (SAE), and top speed increased to 195-mph. The five-speed manual gearbox has the familiar gated shift and was redesigned to shift more smoothly with a single-plate clutch, the enlarged brake discs were cross-drilled, and the steering was quickened.

The results of penultimate iteration of the iconic Testarossa were evaluated in a Road & Track magazine road test of a 512 TR by 1961 Formula 1 World Champion and multiple time Le Mans 24 Hour winner, the late Phil Hill, who noted at the time that, “Lurking under that bodywork is about three quarters of an F40 with all the conveniences of any modern GT.” The 195-mph top speed was just shy of the F40’s incredible 201-mph and at a fraction of the price. All things considered, the 512 TR was even something of a bargain.

The 512 TR brought about a host of welcome enhancements to keep the company’s iconic mid-engine, 12-cylinder supercar competitive against Lamborghini’s new Diablo. It was introduced at the 1992 Los Angeles Auto Show and was markedly improved over earlier models, as it featured an interior that had been given numerous updates to improve driver and passenger comfort, with the most notable changes being to the seats and steering wheel. Outside, the nose received a facelift to aid aerodynamics, while the majority of the exterior remained largely unchanged.

This Nero (black) 512 TR has under 40,000 miles on the odometer, and also features a black interior, plus it is reported to be a nice example. The finish and interior are said to be “lustrous and in very nice condition.” This is listed as a United States model of Ferrari and the EPA sticker accompanies the car. The 512 TR has many conveniences to go along with the undeniable performance aspect of this model; among them are 18-inch chrome factory five-spoke wheels, Michelin ZR tires, air conditioning, complete Veglia instrumentation, racing-style pedals, aftermarket and hidden in-dash Kenwood CD player; power steering, brakes and windows. A nearly complete Ferrari toolkit is also onboard.

Having many years of motor racing history and great successes to support their worldwide image has placed Ferrari as one of the great automobile manufacturers. No matter the future of the motorcar, men will thrill to the excitement of driving a Ferrari for many years to come. These fine machines are recognized as being a breed apart – to be enjoyed, preserved and cherished. Ferrari has undoubtedly joined the ranks as a legendary automobile.