This week we are proud to have in stock a truly iconic example of one of Ferrari’s greatest creations, the 512 TR.

The original Testarossa, designed by Leonardo Fioravanti, was typical of the 1980’s excess, bigger, bolder and generally over the top, as substantiated by it’s competition at the time, the Lamborghini Countach, both of which adorned many a school boys bedroom wall and appeared in a plethora of TV shows and movies, then and even now.
Such memorable productions such as Beverly Hills Cop III, The Wolf of Wall Street, Snoop Dogg’s “Who am I” video and of course, the iconic TV series, Miami Vice.

The second generation in the Testarossa bloodline, and the one we have on offer, was the 512 TR. The car still retained the 4.9-litre, longitudinally rear-mounted flat-12 engine, with a total of forty-eight valves and lubricated via a dry sump system, however the 512 TR’s engine was extensively reworked. Nikasil liners were added, along with a new air intake system, Bosch engine management system, larger intake valves, and a revised exhaust system. In addition to the higher peak power, the modifications delivered a broader power band for better acceleration.

The 512 TR, according to the majority of Ferrari aficionados, was the best of the three derivatives. The 512’s replacement was the 512 M, and although the “M” had more power, upgraded suspension, electronics and features, the styling took a lot of enthusiasts by surprise. The perspex headlights, “busy” rear end and unusual wheel design, were met with a mixed reception by the media and customers.

The 512 featured a single-plate clutch, sliding ball bearings, and better angle for the gearshift knob. The braking system included larger cross-drilled front rotors, quicker steering, lower-profile tyres, and new shock settings improved handling. Most importantly, engine and gearbox position were reworked, which improved the centre of gravity, aiding the handling and making the car easier to drive than it’s predecessor.

The 512 can accelerate from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and on to 161 km/h (100 mph) in 10.7 seconds. No mean feat when you consider it is now 26 years of age.

There are less than a handful of 512’s in South Africa, making it a very desirable and collectable automobile.