The Testarossa is without question an icon of the Eighties; the visual impact it still commands from the unassuming driver, young car-crazy dreamer, or high-performance sports car aficionado has, quite remarkably, never wavered since the model’s introduction in 1984. The low-slung, Pininfarina body is effectively a raked wedge designed to punch through the air at high speeds, not unlike fighter jets of the same period. By a stroke of artistic genius, the design managed to be sinister and elegant at the same time, both forward-thinking and contemporary.

The Testarossa was not only a step forward in terms of styling: It also improved on the performance and all-around livability of the outgoing 512 Berlinetta Boxer. The long side strakes served a purpose, channeling fresh air toward the potent, red-headed 5.0-liter flat-12 engine. The engine produced 40 more horsepower than that of the Testarossa’s predecessor, the 512 BBi, helping the 3,700-pound coupe accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 5.2 seconds and reach a reported top speed of 180 mph.

This remarkable US-market Testarossa was completed at Maranello in January 1991 and desirably specified in the classic Ferrari color scheme of Rosso Corsa over beige leather with contrasting Rosso carpets. Research compiled by Dutch Ferrari historians Edvar and Arvid van Daalen lists an approximate, unofficial tally of 266 examples configured for the US market in the model’s final year of production. Late Testarossas such as this one benefit from the fitment of standard five-lug wheels, dual side-view mirrors, integrated rear brake light, and an improved air conditioning system.

An original window sticker, sales invoices, and warranty book indicate that this Testarossa was purchased new by Dr. Harry E. Bopp of Lakeland, Florida via Shelton Sports Cars in Ft. Lauderdale and promptly registered as “GVV51J”—though by 1996 the car’s registration had been updated to “PWP93D.” In 1999 it was purchased by another Lakeland resident, who then sold the car to Walter Medlin in July 2003 in a deal brokered by Ferrari of Central Florida. At time of purchase, this Testarossa reportedly showed 18,786 miles, and today it is presented having traveled just 182 additional miles within the consignor’s ownership. It retains its numbers-matching engine and gearbox. Accompanying the sale are the car’s original manuals, Shelton Sports Cars window sticker and sales invoice, as well as an appropriate tool roll.

The Testarossa presents nicely and is one of the more well-preserved cars from the Lost & Found Collection. It has, however, benefitted from paintwork over the course of its life. It should be noted that this car has lived its last 20 years in storage and will require mechanical sorting prior to use. Having covered just 18,968 miles from new, it will do doubt provide many exciting opportunities for its next owner.