Lot 136: 1990 Ferrari Testarossa

Pininfarina has pulled off many master-strokes in its time, but few compare with its styling of the Testarossa. Those long 'egg slicer' grilles down the side of the body are more than merely functional, they are more than just a style statement, they are positively inspired. They are the sort of simple idea which every other stylist in the world looks at and says, 'Why didn't I think of that?' The Testarossa is also a car which was developed in a wind tunnel, which has not always been the case with Pininfarina designs and particular attention was paid to inducing down force. Those side grilles are more than beautiful, they are also functional; a wonderful example of science and aesthetics working in harmony. The chassis was proven, it is virtually the same as the Berlinetta Boxer but the Testarossa is larger overall and also lighter. The five-litre, four-valve engine has Bosch fuel injection and produces a mighty, although relaxed, 380bhp which is why this car can gallop to 180+mph. Of more importance is its maximum torque which is 3541bs/ft and results in it being able to cover the 0-60mph sprint in 5.3 seconds. Normally you have to sacrifice style and comfort to get near these figures, but the Testarossa is effortless. In terms of usable performance, it has few equals and no superior. It also has the looks of a 'supermodel', but that is what it is.Finished in the traditional red with tan leather interior, this 1990 Ferrari Testarossa was delivered new to its home country of Italy. The mild southern European climate has been kind to the car as its condition remains in excellent order. Showing just 19 kms from new, the car comes complete with all its history and service books in a leather bound wallet and is currently still registered in Italy, is on the button and drives as good as it looks. This car represents a unique opportunity to purchase probably one of, if not the lowest mileage Testarossas in existence. A perfect example of one of the last big rear engined Ferrari's.