1992 Ferrari 512 TR

Ferrari unveiled the new Testarossa (F110) at the 1984 Paris Motor Show, marking the end of production of the legendary Boxer that had been the flagship 12-cylinder Ferrari model for the previous ten years. Styled by Pininfarina, the Testarossa (Red Head) paid homage to the great 1950's sports racers that originally bore that name, referring to their bright red rocker box covers. The mid-engine, rear wheel drive configuration allowed the centre of gravity to be positioned in the middle of the car resulting in the weight distribution being 40/ 60 front and rear, almost an ideal balance in terms of road holding and steering response. The Testarossa was larger than its Boxer predecessor, some 6 inches wider and 2.5 inches longer at 2,550mm, allowing for more leg room and combined with the raised roof height in the cabin made progress a little more comfortable.

Production of the 512TR commenced in 1991 with deliveries to customers in 1992 and was effectively a re-engineered Testarossa, although Ferrari were keen that it was regarded as a new model. As well as the slightly less dramatic, but more subtle styling and a few tweaks to the detailing the main changes were chassis and engine related. The power of the 4.9 Litre, 48 valve, flat 12 was increased to 428 bhp from 380 with a similar improvement in torque, and with the benefit of a 30kg weight reduction on the earlier model, 0-60 times fell from 5.3 to 4.9 seconds and top speed lifted to 195 MPH.

Supplied new to Japan on 11th June 1992, and handled by Cornes and Co. upon entry into that country, this rare left-hand drive, 512TR was built in the traditional colour combination of Rosso Red with Black leather upholstery. Our vendor recently imported this 512 TR to the UK direct from Japan and set about bringing the car up to his fastidiously high standards. He first, UK registered the vehicle, and then sent the car to Mototecnique who set about getting this wonderful Ferrari completely 'up to speed' with new parts fitted such as a fuel pump, battery, pump seals and lots of basic maintenance, and the invoices for all this work are in the car's history file. Further love and attention was lavished on professional detailing with the interior attended to, and the fog lights polished and cleaned. All stone chips have been removed and the small scuffs on the alloys blended away, resulting in the car presenting nicely on it toes for this auction having enjoyed nearly £10k of recent expenditure.

The mileage covered today is 55,000kms with service history present and 11 service stamps in the official Ferrari service book. Cornes and Co. Ltd serviced the car while in Japan along with the Wako Automobile service centre. Our vendor has translated paperwork in the history file containing details of work carried out by both companies while the car was being used and enjoyed in Japan. All other official handbooks are present, as is the original tool kit and spare keys. This car also comes with a UK MoT until 9th February 2017 and represents an exciting opportunity to enjoy a summer with this rare and focused Ferrari.