1987 Ferrari Testarossa - (Late entry -LOT 111A in our auction)

Ferrari unveiled the new Testarossa at the 1984 Paris motor show, this marked the end of production for the Boxer that had been the flagship 12 cylinder Ferrari model for the previous ten years. Styled by Pininfarina, the Testarossa paid homage to the great 50's sports racer that originally bore the name which when translated means 'Red Head', because the rocker-box covers were painted red. The mid-engine, rear wheel drive configuration allowed the centre of gravity to be positioned in the middle of the car which resulted in the weight distribution being 40% front and 60% rear, thus achieving excellent cornering and road holding ability. The Testarossa was produced with 16'' 5 spoke 'Star' alloy wheels and disc brakes were fitted all round with 309mm discs at the front and 310mm at the rear.

The Testarossa was larger than its Boxer predecessor, 6 inches wider and with an increased wheelbase to 2550mm, it was some 2.5 inches longer than the Boxer which allowed for more leg room. The raised roof height in the cabin made the driving position more comfortable, especially for taller drivers. In addition the temperature inside the cockpit was reduced as twin radiators were mounted in the rear. The Boxer had a single front mounted radiator with plumbing from the bonnet to the engine which was behind the seats this made the cabin very hot, especially on a warm day. The distinctive side vents were as useful as they were visually striking, allowing excellent engine ventilation and helping to give the car its unique styling.

This early Testaroosa is presented in Rosso Corsa with Nero leather interior. This was a European delivered vehicle and these early production examples are considered to be the most desirable and collectable of the series. It came as standard with bolt on alloy wheels and a single high wing mirror, although this particular example has been fitted with twin mirrors as found on the later cars. The odometer reads what is believed to be a genuine 49,422 kms and this car has spent much of its life in the sunny climates of Monaco and northern Italy. The dashboard and the raised sections of the door cards have been re-trimmed in black Alcantara with red stitching and a stainless steel Tubi Style sports exhaust is fitted, which provides that exciting and unmistakeable 12-cylinder Ferrari howl. Sensibly guided it is here to be sold.