Lot 143

Amelia Island 2012

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

{{lr.item.text}}

$77,000 USD | Sold

United States | Amelia Island, Florida

{{internetCurrentBid}}

{{internetTimeLeft}}


language
Chassis No.
ZFFSG17A1M0086824

390 hp, 4,943 cc DOHC horizontally-opposed 12-cylinder engine, with twin Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, five-speed transaxle, independent front and suspension by coil springs and unequal wishbones, four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4"

• Superb example of 1980s icon, just serviced by Gary Bobileff

• Rosso Corsa with tan leather; stainless steel Tubi exhaust

• 390 hp, 4.9-liter, DOHC flat-12 engine, derived from Formula 1

When the Testarossa replaced the 512BBi in 1985, Ferrari staked his claim to the bank accounts of the “me” generation. Launched at the 1984 Paris show, the Testarossa was aimed directly at the American market. It was so much better as a road car and more stylish than the preceding boxer that a remarkable 7,200 Testarossas were sold between 1985 and 1991, making it the most successful Ferrari to date.

With its over-the-top straked sides, the Testarossa became an American icon for its role in the TV police series Miami Vice. It was initially so popular that buyer frenzy fueled additional dealer markups, which peaked at about $150,000 in the early years.

Pininfarina engineered the Testarossa to fix some of the problems of the 512 Boxer; it was wider, taller and longer for improved inside space, and the radiator was moved to the rear to eliminate plumbing that previously ran through the car. The side strakes actually directed air to two radiators in Formula One fashion and made the rear of the car wider and handling more stable.

The car on offer is handsomely finished in Rosso Corsa with a tan leather interior and shows only 21,949 miles. It comes with all its books and tools, and 200 miles ago it had the important five-year, 30,000-mile, belt-replacement service performed by marque expert Gary Bobileff Motor Co., who documented his work. This Testarossa is fitted with a Tubi stainless steel exhaust and is very nicely presented. It is an iconic sports car, perpetually desirable and with recent work carried out by a respected specialist.