The Ferrari F512 M, or “Modificata,” was launched in 1994 as the final version of the legendary Testarossa. Ultimately, it was to be the last flat-12-powered Ferrari produced. The marque refined all aspects of the model’s development with particular attention paid to the chassis, engine, and cosmetics. Numerous internal engine upgrades, including titanium rods and other lightened components, along with increased compression, helped bump engine output to 446 horsepower—a boost of nearly 60 units up from the preceding 512 TR.

Coupled with refinements such as a new stainless exhaust, updated suspension, and a new Bosch ABS braking system, the F512 M offers impressive power and fantastic handling assisted by a near 50:50 weight distribution. Styling cues enhancing the model’s design include a unique set of taillights, three-piece alloy wheels, and a completely revised front fascia which combined the striking lines of the F40 and 512 BB/LM. In total, just 501 F512 M examples were manufactured for worldwide distribution, making it one of the rarest road-going models of Luca di Montezemolo's reign at Ferrari.

MODIFICATA NUMERO SESSANTOTTO

This “triple black” F512 M on offer is the 68th of just 75 US-market examples of the model produced by Ferrari. Just four examples of those 75 US cars are recorded to have been specified in this color combination. Having been completed at Maranello in late October 1995, it was thusly distributed to Ferrari of North America in Montvale, New Jersey for dealer assignment. By 8 December it was procured by Algar Ferrari of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and promptly sold to its first Pennsylvania-based owner. The car’s accompanying window sticker and original sales documentation from 31 January 1996 show that its first owner further specified a suite of dealer-installed accessories, including a pair of black floormats bearing the famous “Cavallino Rampante” logo in red, an alarm system, and a hi-fi stereo system with amplifier, CD player, and set of MB Quart speakers.

Modificata number 68 remained with its original owner until 8 July 2008, when it was acquired by the consignor in a deal brokered by Algar Ferrari. Documentation and invoices on file show that Algar Ferrari were exclusively responsible for the car’s maintenance up to that point—and also that its odometer then indicated just 8,003 miles at time of sale.

In April 2010, the consignor engaged Ferrari of New England to complete some minor sorting of the air conditioning system and recalibrate the engine-speed sensor/tachometer. All told, this F512 M has since lived an exceptionally pampered life under the consignor’s careful stewardship, and it now exhibits just under 9,000 miles at time of cataloguing. In April 2022, the consignor again submitted this well-kept Modificata to Ferrari of New England for a comprehensive servicing regimen, which included a major engine-out belt service, plugs, points, gaskets, filters, and four new Michelin Pilot Sport tires to the cost of $21,987.

As the most exciting and refined iteration of the Testarossa platform, the F512 M is considered by many to be the most desirable model in the series. A very rare sight in the United States, they remain highly collectible and prized for all their unique qualities. Featuring just two recorded owners from new and fewer than 9,000 miles on its odometer, this would be an excellent example for the individual looking to enjoy the thrills of flat-12 Ferrari ownership on the open road.