1994 Ferrari 512 TR ABS - One of 38 - Classiche Certified

Launched at the Paris Motor Show in October 1991, with deliveries to customers commencing in 1992, the 512 TR was effectively a re-engineered Testarossa, although naturally all at Ferrari were keen that it was regarded as a new model. The model title witnessed a return to the old naming tradition using characters, with the figure ‘5’ referring to the cubic capacity of the engine in litres and the ‘12’ to the number of cylinders, the ‘TR’ was simply an abbreviation of Testarossa (Testa Rossa) as a nod to its origins. Externally, the main visual differences were the nose and tail treatment, the louvre design on the engine lid and the design of the road wheels and internally there were changes to the seats, steering wheel design and trim details. Mechanically there were numerous changes to the engine and gearbox, boosting power and providing a more satisfying and more user-friendly gearbox. The engine and transmission assembly location in the chassis had been dropped by 30mm, lowering the centre of gravity, and improving further the Testarossa’s remarkable roadholding.

The net result of these changes was a more encouraging car to drive with a reduction in weight of 50kg and a jump in the claimed power output of 38bhp to 428bhp @ 6,750rpm for European models. The increased power provided improved acceleration with 0-60mph down from 5.2 seconds to 4.8 seconds, although the top speed was still in line with that of its predecessor.

Produced between 1991 and 1994, 2,261 examples found homes worldwide with just 88 being supplied to the UK and of those, just 38 were fitted with ABS.

Classically finished in Rosso Corsa with Nero leather and carpets, this superb example is one of the 38 that were fitted with ABS and was originally delivered to Maranello Concessionaires prior to being sold by Reg Vardy to its first owner in August 1994. It has covered just 41,850 miles from new and remains in simply outstanding condition, the paintwork, trim and mechanicals all excellent. The service history is equally impressive with 21 service stamps from a mixture of main dealer and marque specialists, the most recent of which documents a major, engine-out service by specialists Kent High Performance costing £6,899.62 on 14th March 2024. Within this service the cambelts were replaced, as was the water pump, brake lines and other minor mechanical jobs to return it to mechanical top form. The car’s exterior was not neglected either as confirmed by an invoice from Kent High Performance on 28the June 2024 totalling £5,403.82 relating to bringing the car’s bodywork up to what can only be described as ‘showroom condition'.

The ring-binder history file makes for very pleasant reading, including a summary sheet of every MOT, service and inspection undertaken on the car since new, along with the associated mileage at each interval. There is copy documentation of the original order forms and specification list as supplied by Tony Willis of The Maranello Concessionaires Archive in 2013 and a plethora of service/maintenance invoices from Kent High Performance, SMDG Performance and Talacrest. The car comes with the all-important Classiche Certification showing impeccable originality throughout, complete with the supplied box file of supporting evidence. Accompanying the history file are the TR's original books, wallet and Ferrari toolkit.

This 512 is simply exceptional and drives as impressively as one would imagine with its sonorous V12. With the ever increasing electronic complexity of modern supercars and the concern that the right parts may no longer be available in the future, there is a growing focus on analogue cars, with three pedals and minimal electronic interference and this 1990’s Ferrari, with proper maintenance, should go on forever.

We invite and encourage your close inspection of this remarkable 512 TR.