Lot 623: 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Coup�

Ferrari�s flagship model, the Testarossa supercar revived a famous name from the Italian company�s past when it arrived in 1984. A �next generation� Berlinetta Boxer, the Testarossa retained its predecessor�s amidships-mounted, 5.0-litre, flat-12 engine, which now boasted a maximum power output raised to 380bhp at 6,300rpm courtesy of four-valve cylinder heads. Despite the power increase, smoothness and driveability were enhanced, the car possessing excellent top gear flexibility allied to a maximum speed of 180mph.
Rivalling Lamborghini�s Countach for presence, the Pininfarina-designed Testarossa succeeded brilliantly, the gill slats feeding air to its side-mounted radiators being one of the modern era�s most instantly recognisable � and copied - styling devices. A larger car than the 512BB - the increase in width being necessary to accommodate wider tyres - the Testarossa managed the trick of combining high downforce with a low coefficient of drag, its graceful body being notable for the absence of extraneous spoilers and other such devices. Despite the increase in size over the 512BB, the Testarossa was lighter than its predecessor, the body - its steel doors and roof excepted - being, somewhat unusually for a production Ferrari, of aluminium. Luxury touches in the well-equipped cabin included air conditioning, electrically adjustable seats, tilting steering wheel and plentiful leather.
Unlike some of its rivals, the Testarossa possessed light controls and was relatively easy to drive, factors which, allied to its outstanding performance and stunning looks, contributed to an instant and sustained high level of demand. In 1992 the original Testarossa was succeeded by the updated 512TR version, which came with 428bhp on tap, while ABS brakes were added to the package before the 512TR was replaced by what would be the Testarossa�s final incarnation � the 512M � for 1995. For the first time there were major cosmetic changes: the original pop-up headlights being replaced by fixed lamps beneath clear covers, the grille size reduced, round tail lamps adopted and three-piece wheels fitted. Titanium connecting rods went into the engine, which produced marginally more power and torque than before.
One of only a relative handful of its type produced in UK right-hand drive configuration, this superb example of the legendary Italian supercar has covered a mere 9,400-or-so miles from new and is presented in commensurately good condition. Finished in red with tan leather interior, it features twin mirrors and lambs� wool over-rugs, and comes with a comprehensive history file containing a full complement of bills, copies of which will be available for inspection, the originals to be forwarded to the purchaser after sale. The car is offered with road fund licence to 31st October 2008, Swansea V5 registration document and fresh MoT. It should be noted that the cherished registration mark �1 XR� is being retained by the vendor.