Ferrari Testarossa Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ferrari Testarossa

Unveiled at the 1984 Paris Auto Show, the Ferrari Testarossa succeeded the 512 Berlinetta Boxer, picking up the mantle with an all-new flat-12 engine and an angular design by Pininfarina. Its name, meaning 'red head', referenced both the red cam covers and legendary Ferrari racing history. Conceived to address the Berlinetta Boxer's shortcomings—especially cabin heat management and practicality—the Testarossa featured a mid-engine layout with improved aerodynamics and cabin space. Side strakes channelling air to rear radiators and its enormous rear track were distinctive features. The broad rear and instantly recognisable silhouette made the Testarossa a fixture not only on roads but also in pop culture, notably in 'Miami Vice'. Its mix of supercar performance and GT comfort targeted a new, cosmopolitan clientele in the 1980s and beyond.

Model Series Development

The initial Testarossa, built from 1984 to 1991, evolved in two key revisions: the 512 TR (from 1992) and the F512 M (from 1994). The 512 TR introduced more power (428 PS), a redesigned cylinder head, and significant updates to the gearbox for smoother shifts, as well as a new centre console. The F512 M marked the final stage, featuring fixed headlights, further increased output (up to 440 PS), titanium conrods and pistons, and ABS as standard. While outward changes were evolutionary, these versions refined the Testarossa recipe up to 1996, before being replaced by the 550 Maranello. Notable rarities include the 'Monospecchio' (high single driver-side mirror) and 'Monodado' (central locking wheels) versions, both highly regarded by collectors.

Key Highlights and Statistics

The Testarossa’s reputation is rooted in its technical novelty—a flat-12, four-valve-per-cylinder engine, dramatic side intakes, and singular driving dynamics. The model's broad rear and wedge shape are engineering responses to mid-engine cooling and high-speed stability requirements. Series features include pop-up headlights, a wide track, aluminium bodywork, and a posh leather-trimmed interior, often with striking two-tone colour combinations. Factory options such as Schedoni luggage set and rare colours (e.g., Giallo Fly, Bianco Avus, various leathers) further boost its appeal. Early versions with 'Monospecchio' or 'Monodado' configuration are especially sought after. All cars came standard with power windows, air conditioning, and central locking—remarkable for its era.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Significant variants include the early 'Monospecchio' versions (single, high-mounted mirror), the rare 'Monodado' central-lock wheel variants, and the final F512 M (440 PS, fixed headlights, 501 units produced). Unique factory colour combinations, right-hand-drive cars, and the one-off Spider built for Gianni Agnelli further expand the collectible spectrum. Factory Schedoni leather luggage sets and full documentation/Ferrari Classiche certificates are particularly valued within enthusiast circles.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Regular maintenance is crucial: the Testarossa’s flat-12 requires services every 6,000–7,000 miles or annually, and the timing belt must be changed every 3 years or 15,000 miles, necessitating engine removal—a cost-intensive job. Water pumps in pre-1989 cars often fail early; check for upgraded replacements. Vibration-prone brakes, worn shocks and bushings, and perished air conditioning seals are common age-related issues. Early Michelin TRX wheels/tyres are rare, and retrofits are advisable. Gearboxes, especially second gear synchros, are known to wear. Electrical systems and alarm wiring can trigger trouble, while interior plastics and trim pieces are both fragile and hard to source. Always prioritise cars with full, documented Ferrari service history and factor in annual running costs between €10,000 and €20,000.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Dynamics

The Testarossa’s 180° V12 provides a unique combination of refinement and ferocity, revving smoothly to deliver a deeply mechanical, signature Ferrari soundtrack. Power is fed through a dogleg 5-speed manual gearbox with a precision metal gate. Later models introduced upgrades to the shifter for less recalcitrant gear selection. With nearly 400 PS in its earliest form and even more in the 512 TR and F512 M, the Testarossa was and remains an extremely fast Grand Tourer. Predictable, safe handling is buttressed by a wide rear, mid-engine layout, and sophisticated suspension. The Testarossa, long praised as among the most comfortable Ferrari GTs of its period, remains a commanding yet surprisingly usable supercar from the era. - Testarossa (1984–1991) – 390 PS, manual, pop-up headlights, iconic side strakes.

• 512 TR (1992–1994) – 428 PS, revised chassis and improved gear shift.
• F512 M (1994–1996) – 440 PS, fixed headlights, ABS, last of the series, 501 units produced.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Pininfarina’s Leonardo Fioravanti sculpted the Testarossa’s wedge profile, hallmark grille, and broad tail. Signature design features include the 'cheese grater' side strakes, wide-set rear, flip-up headlights, and black rear grille. Available in daring colourways (besides Rosso Corsa: Giallo Fly, Bianco, Blu Sera, Marrone Metallizzato) with typical black, tan, or even blue leather interiors. Most Testarossas came with air conditioning, electric windows, and central locking as standard. The model’s interior is a blend of leather over classic analog gauges, orange needles, and an unmistakable metallic-gated shifter. Optional accessories included Schedoni leather luggage sets and dealer-fit stereos. The broad rear provided a surprisingly large luggage compartment for a supercar of its time. Each detail reflected 1980s Italian style—bold yet uncompromising on function.

Other Notable Features

The Testarossa’s nearly 2-metre width, pop-up headlights, and bold rear design have contributed to countless appearances in film, TV, video games (e.g., Out Run), and popular music. Ferrari Testarossa fan clubs and specialist forums are active worldwide, reflecting the car’s enduring enthusiast appeal. Original toolkits, service books, and unmodified condition considerably enhance an example’s desirability. The Testarossa became a symbol of high-performance Italian engineering blended with comfort and dramatic styling unique to its period.

Summary

Produced between 1984 and 1996, the Ferrari Testarossa stands as one of the marque’s most technically daring and instantly recognisable classics. A flat-12 engine, bold bodywork, and a blend of comfort-oriented Grand Touring and supercar ability set it apart from contemporaries. Its presence on both the road and in global pop culture, coupled with strong demand and a full range of technical refinements in later models, make it a prominent chapter in Ferrari history. Rigorous maintenance is a must, and rare design details and full documentation are especially valued by collectors today.