The English translation of Testarossa literally means “red head”. Enzo Ferrari first used this name on the 1958 four-cylinder 500TR. The name was used because the car’s cylinder heads were painted red. Most famously, though, this sobriquet was used for the subsequent V-12 car, which was developed under Carlo Chiti’s engineering team. The 250 Testarossa of the late 1950s remains one of the most desirable and valuable Ferraris ever built.

In 1984, a new car bearing the legendary name was unveiled at Modena at the original factory in the heart of town. Officially, the car was introduced at the Paris Show in 1984, and the fact that the factory had “named” a car rather than use a type number, an immediate stir occurred, especially as it had such significant, historic roots.

The Testarossa was based on its predecessor, the iconic 512 BBi. The new car had four valves per cylinder, and at 390 brake horsepower, it was the most powerful engine mounted on a production sports car at the time of its launch. Pininfarina’s stunning design broke somewhat with tradition, and the striking and, now timeless, feature of the Testarossa, for which it will always be identified, are the long, gill-like side air intakes that seem to define the styling of this car.

Top speed was 181 mph, with it achieving 0–60 mph in 5.8 seconds and 0–100 mph in 12.7 seconds. At the time, during a span of eight years, the Testarossa achieved more sales than any other 12-cylinder Ferrari in the Scuderia’s history.

The car presented here, chassis 89002, is a U.S. version, and it is immaculate in Rosso Corsa with a beige hide. Mileage shows just 7,270 kilometres. The car has the desirable twin wing mirrors, the optional five-bolt split rim wheels, and all the books and tools. This iconic and classic Ferrari is ready to be used and enjoyed.

The name Testarossa is steeped in history and the Ferrari legend, and it is one of those names that make the hairs on your neck stand up. In true tradition, the cam covers of this version are blood red.