Defining the art of the supercar for decades, Ferrari used its prodigious talents to design the final iteration of its long-produced Testarossa: the F512 M. The “M”, standing for modificata, represents the many modifications that were made to the styling and performance of the Testarossa and 512 TR to make the F512 M the fiercest—and ultimate—iteration of the Testarossa series.

From a visual standpoint, the most noticeable change was to the F512 M’s “eyes”. Ferrari replaced retractable headlamps with fixed “homofocal” headlights behind Lexan covers. Further design upgrades included two NACA intakes for enhanced interior ventilation and a modified undertray for smoother airflow.

Given that the Testarossa had a notorious weight problem, the F512 M underwent further weight reduction. Ferrari’s flagship V-12—a longitudinally mid-mounted flat-12—was fitted with titanium alloy connection rods and a lightened crankshaft, which together alleviated 7.26 kilograms (16.0 pounds). Forged aluminium pistons and a new stainless steel exhaust were also fitted to reduce weight. As a result of these efforts, the engine has been described as “a 12-cylinder monument to automotive success”.

Even amidst these myriad stylistic and engine modifications, Ferrari did not forget about the feet on the F512 M. Gas-filled shock absorbers contribute to a smoother ride, while the upgraded Bosch ABS system helps to offset the power of the 12-cylinder beast under the hood. Its two-piece wheels, unique to this model at the time of production, promote brake cooling.

Offered here is undeniably one of the finest F512 M specimens currently available, especially handsome in the more unusual Rosso Barchetta. Having travelled just 3,951 kilometres (2,455 miles) verified from new, this car has remained wholly unmolested since it was first sold by Cornes, Japan’s sole official importer at the time. Considered a true “time-warp” example, preserved on its front headlights are the original production stickers still showing the handwritten inspection dates, as well as the original engine inspection markings and tags. Even the wheels continue to sport their original, as installed, 1994/1995 date-coded Pirelli P-Zero tyres, which are exceptionally well preserved with almost no signs of ageing, cracking, or wear. Inside the car, the floor mats maintain their original plastic casing from the factory, as do the doorsills and the remote controls that accompany the dealer-installed radio. One of a mere 501 units built, this car has never undergone a major service (the original timing belt is still intact, as is the near-perfect underhood foam), though regular fluid changes have been performed throughout its pampered life.

A true collector’s car, the F512 M represents the pinnacle of mid-engine series production 12-cylinder Ferraris, representing the end of a glorious era. The vehicle presented here has been driven less than one kilometre by its current owner (who has been associated with the car since new), although the engine is regularly started to maintain lubrication. This mint example is sure to add to the exclusivity of any garage, as it presents virtually the same today as it did upon its production two decades ago.