Lot 236: 1990 Ferrari Testarossa

Ferrari's contemporary rival to the Lamborghini Countach, the Testarossa (as opposed to its Fifties sports-racer of the same name) was a very high performance machine with striking Pininfarina aluminium coachwork. Wide and purposeful, with flared arches and wide slats a prominent feature of its flanks, together with a high sweeping tail designed for negative lift, rear lights covered by a black full length grille, a low sleek bonnet and long door mirrors sprouting like periscopes, its design cleverly integrated aerodynamics with aesthetic appeal; and appeal it did, 37 orders being taken on its launch at the Paris Show in October 1984. At its heart was a lighter version of the alloy quad-camshaft flat 12 cylinder, 4,942cc engine of the 512 BB, complete with dry sump lubrication, four valves per cylinder, fuel injection and the ability to meet USA emission regulations for the all-important American market. Producing a hefty 390bhp at 6,300rpm, allied to Ferrari's own five speed gearbox, this could propel the Testarossa to no less than 181mph with 0-60mph achieved in just 5.4 seconds. Excellent roadholding was assured by a steel tube chassis - rather than the more common modern monocoque - sporting all independent suspension using double wishbones and single coil spring dampers at the front, and single wishbones with double coil spring/dampers at the rear. Behind the huge tyres large ventilated disc brakes were fitted all round; inside luxury abounded with high quality hide trim that included Connolly leather-covered seats. Described as being in excellent condition by the vendor, this vivacious sportscar has lost none of its appeal over the years and it has been maintained to the highest of standards. The previous but one owner amassed bills in excess of £35,000 over the years for general maintenance and servicing and the current owner has continued this thorough attitude to ownership; a notoriously delicate feature in Testarossas and prone to degradation, the fuse board - at a cost alone of over £1,250 - has been completely rewired and bought back to as-new condition. A full camshaft belt service took place in 2006 and, with the last two services costing in excess of £5,000, one can be assured, therefore, that this car has had as good a start to life as possible. Complete with road fund licence, MoT test certificate and just 34,000 miles recorded, indulge in a little Miami Vice!