Description
A unique example
The 1987 Ferrari Testarossa is more than just a car; it’s a piece of living history. This particular model was originally delivered in Japan and has been well-maintained. With its iconic design and excellent condition, it’s truly a gem for collectors and classic supercar enthusiasts.
Maintenance history
This Testarossa has a solid maintenance record, with all inspections carried out by the Ferrari dealer in Tokyo (Cornes Nagoya). The extensive Japanese maintenance documents show that the car has been thoroughly checked and serviced. In 2018, the Testarossa was brought to Europe, imported into France, and immediately underwent a comprehensive service at Charles Pozzi, the famous Ferrari dealer in Paris. During this service, the engine belts were replaced, a costly operation that amounted to €21, 000. The engine and gearbox have since been in perfect harmony, delivering a sublime driving experience.
The magnificent 5-Liter V12
At the heart of the Ferrari Testarossa lies the mighty 5-liter V12 engine. This engine is a masterpiece of Italian engineering, designed to be both powerful and reliable. With 287 kW of power, coupled with a manual transmission, the Testarossa offers an unparalleled driving experience. The growl of the V12, the sensation of pure power beneath your feet, and the smooth shifting make every drive in this car an unforgettable adventure.
The legacy of the Testarossa
The Ferrari Testarossa was designed by the legendary design house Pininfarina. The name "Testarossa," meaning "red head," refers to the red-painted cylinder heads of the engine. During its time, the Testarossa competed with rivals such as the Lamborghini Countach and the Porsche 911 Turbo. Ferrari’s history through the 1990s is a tale of continuous innovation and success in motorsport, with the Testarossa being one of the most iconic models of that era.
The early years of Ferrari
Ferrari was founded in 1939 by Enzo Ferrari, initially as a racing division of Alfa Romeo, called Auto Avio Costruzioni. However, it wasn’t until 1947 that the first Ferrari badge appeared on a car with the launch of the Ferrari 125 S. This model was powered by a V12 engine designed by the brilliant engineer Gioachino Colombo. This engine laid the foundation for the impressive series of twelve-cylinder engines that Ferrari would produce in the following decades.
The evolution of the V12 Engine
The V12 engine quickly became the heart of Ferrari’s identity. In the 1950s and 1960s, this engine evolved continuously to improve performance and reliability. Iconic models such as the Ferrari 250 GTO, introduced in the early 1960s, perfectly illustrated how Ferrari’s V12 engines were not only powerful but also reliable and versatile, suitable for both racetracks and the road.
250 GTO: The perfection of the V12
The Ferrari 250 GTO, powered by a 3. 0-liter V12, became a legend thanks to its victories in races such as the Tour de France and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This model demonstrated how Ferrari’s V12 engines could perform under extreme conditions, helping to establish Ferrari’s reputation as a top sports car manufacturer.
Technological Innovations of the 1970s
In the 1970s, Ferrari introduced new technologies and improvements to their V12 engines. Models such as the Ferrari 365 GTB/ 4, known as the "Daytona," and the Ferrari 512 BB (Berlinetta Boxer) showcased how the V12 engines became more powerful and advanced. The 365 GTB/ 4, with its 4. 4-liter V12 engine, was one of the fastest cars of its time, confirming Ferrari’s position as a leader in the high-performance car world.
The Ferrari Testarossa: A new milestone
The introduction of the Ferrari Testarossa in 1984 marked a new milestone in the evolution of Ferrari’s V12 engines. The Testarossa was equipped with a 4. 9-liter V12 engine producing 287 kW. This engine was a further development of the 512 BB engine and introduced flat-twelve-cylinder technology, which gave the car a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Ferrari in the 1980s and 1990s
During the 1980s and 1990s, Ferrari continued to innovate and refine their V12 engines. The Testarossa was succeeded by models such as the Ferrari 512 TR and the Ferrari F512 M, both of which offered improved performance and driving experiences. Ferrari maintained its reputation as one of the world’s most prestigious and sought-after sports car manufacturers.
A legacy of performance
Ferrari’s history up to the introduction of the Testarossa is a story of continuous innovation and dedication to performance. The evolution of the V12 engines, from the early Colombo designs to the advanced engines in the Testarossa, shows how Ferrari’s passion for speed and engineering has helped create iconic cars that are beloved by car enthusiasts around the world.
The icon of the 1980s
The Ferrari Testarossa is considered by many to be the ultimate symbol of the 1980s. Its wide, low, and aggres