Celebrating 40 Years of the Ferrari Testarossa
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 40 years since the Testarossa first stole the spotlight at the
Paris Auto Show, organised from 4 till 14 October 1984. Over the decades, it has remained a
symbol of automotive excellence. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, we take a moment to
honor the legacy of this iconic vehicle and the joy it has brought to countless enthusiasts and
collectors worldwide. Before its official introduction at the Tuto Salon, the car was presented
to some VIP Chiefs and selected press at the illustrious night club Lido in Paris.
The Legacy of the Ferrari Testarossa
Named after the legendary 1957 250 Testa Rossa, the Ferrari Testarossa made its grand
debut in 1984 and continued production until 1996, featuring five different model updates:
Monospechio, Monodado, 5 Bolts, 512 TR, and 512 M. Unlike its predecessor, the 1981 BB
512i, the Testarossa featured a revolutionary redesign aimed at enhancing the driving
experience. The dimensions grew, with an extended wheelbase and increased length,
ensuring more headroom and comfort for drivers and passengers alike. The Testarossa
quickly became synonymous with luxury and performance, forever changing the landscape
of high-performance sports cars.
Ferrari Testarossa Engine & Specs
The Ferrari Testarossa was the first Ferrari road car to feature a flat-12 cylinder engine with
four valves per cylinder, while still maintaining the 4.9L capacity of the 512 BBi engine. This
longitudinally mounted powerhouse was paired with a five-speed transmission and boasted
an electronic ignition system with fuel injection. The 4.9L flat-12 engine produced an
impressive 385 horsepower at 6,300 RPM and delivered 361 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 RPM.
The Testarossa engine also demonstrated remarkable performance on the track, setting
notable benchmarks for a road car:
● 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds
● 0-160 km/h in 11.4 seconds
● Achieving a top speed of 290 km/h.
These specifications not only highlight the Testarossa’s engineering excellence but also
underscore its status as a true competitor in the world of high-performance sports cars.
A Design by Pininfarina
The Testarossa’s design, courtesy of the renowned Pininfarina, was nothing short of
groundbreaking. One of the most distinctive aspects of the vehicle was its side intakes, often
referred to as “cheese graters” or “egg slicers.” These side strakes weren’t just for show;
they housed twin side radiators, allowing for a cooler cabin and improved both stability and
handling by making the car wider at the rear than the front. The sleek, wedge-shaped design
was avant-garde for its time, setting a new standard for automotive aesthetics.
What Does “Testarossa” Mean?
Testa Rossa translates from Italian as “red head,” referring to the engine’s red-painted cam
covers. This name isn’t just a nod to the car’s iconic color but also a tribute to Ferrari’s rich
racing heritage. The red head has become a symbol of Ferrari’s commitment to performance
and excellence, further cementing the Testarossa’s place in automotive lore.
Hollywood Fame
The Testarossa gained international fame through its inclusion in popular movies and TV
shows, most notably “Miami Vice.” The sleek and stylish design made it a perfect fit for the
glamorous world of Hollywood. Its appearance on the silver screen only added to its allure,
making it a household name and an object of desire for car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Unique Variants of the Testarossa
The ‘Monospecchio
Among the rarest versions of the Testarossa is the ‘monospecchio’ or ‘single mirror’ model
from 1985-1986. This variant featured only one side mirror on the driver’s side, making it a
unique and highly sought-after model. The limited production run and distinctive design
elements make the ‘monospecchio’ a prized possession for collectors.
The Testarossa Spider
Another highly coveted variant is the Testarossa Spider. While Ferrari officially produced only
one factory Testarossa Spider for Fiat’s chairman, Gianni Agnelli, in 1986. There were a few
other Testarossa Spiders built by Ferrari for specific high-profile clients, including royal
families. These custom-built Spiders were created by Ferrari’s Special Projects division.
Interested in Classic Cars?
If you have a passion for classic cars and appreciate the artistry and engineering of iconic
vehicles like the Ferrari Testarossa, we invite you to explore our collection. Our carefully
curated selection features a range of timeless classics, each with its own unique story and
heritage. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply someone who admires automotive
excellence, you’ll find something to ignite your enthusiasm.