Ferrari’s brand-new Testarossa, the star of the 1984 Paris Motor Show, shocked the world at its premiere. It was a dramatic departure from the 512 BBi that preceded it, as its styling was angular and aggressive, yet its design was just as functional as it was attractive.
The new Testarossa not only offered a step forward in terms of styling, but Ferrari’s new supercar also improved on all aspects of the outgoing Berlinetta Boxer models. The engine produced 40 more horsepower than that of the 512 BBi, helping the Testarossa accelerate from 0–60 mph in under 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. Its dramatic side strakes that ran along the side of the car helped to channel air into the dual rear-mounted radiators, which kept both the engine and cabin from overheating. By 1988, the single “Flying Mirror” was replaced with more conventional dual mirrors, and the center lock wheels were changed for similar looking wheels with five bolts.
This Testarossa is finished in the rare and striking color combination of Oro Chiaro Metallizzato over black leather interior. With just under 4,300 original miles, it is in wonderfully preserved original condition, and even has the original chalk markings from the factory on the engine, suspension, and other components. When the previous owner purchased the car, the original Cosmoline preservative applied by the factory was still covering many components in the engine bay. He spent days carefully removing the factory-applied material with a gentle cleaner, revealing the virtually new suspension, subframe, and cadmium plating underneath. The factory hashmarks are even still on the A-arms.
In 2015, this Testarossa was Ferrari Classiche certified, and in January 2016, the former owner showed the car at Cavallino Classic, where it won the coveted Platinum Award. Before the show, a full engine-out service was completed, all four brake calipers were rebuilt, and the car was thoroughly detailed. Included in the sale are the factory books, tools in their pouch, service records, and its Ferrari Classiche Red Book.
This Ferrari offers a golden opportunity for a discerning collector looking for an immaculately preserved Testarossa that is guaranteed to stand out from the crowd.