Vehicle Description
Chassis No. ZFFLG40A8P0095282
As the defining poster car of the 1980s entered a new decade,
Ferrari reworked the iconic Testarossa to increase long-distance
comfort and improve ergonomics. Gone was the center console to be
replaced by a trio of auxiliary gauges, heating and air
conditioning controls were relocated to be between the new, more
comfortable seats, and the front luggage compartment was expanded
to fulfill its role as a long-distance GT. These changes to the
cabin were joined by more prominent revisions to the exterior
including new front driving lights, brake cooling ducts, and
18-inch alloy wheels that hinted at the 512 TR's improved
performance.
The TR's mid-mounted twelve-cylinder engine was the subject of a
series of modifications including higher compression (up from 8.7:1
to 10.0:1), larger intake valves, hotter cams, and refinements in
ignition and manifolding, increasing output 10 percent from 380
horsepower to 421 horsepower. To lower the center of gravity, the
engine was also mounted about an inch lower in the reworked
chassis, which boasted increased rigidity, larger-diameter
cross-drilled disc brakes, and lighter suspension components.
Formula One World Champion Phil Hill had this to say of the 512
TR's performance in his review for Road & Track: "Lurking under
that bodywork is about three quarters of an F40 with all the
conveniences of any modern GT..."
This fine 512 TR was completed in July 1992 as a U.S.-market
example, finished in the rare and stealthy color combination of
Nero paint over matching Nero leather. The original window sticker
shows that the Ferrari was sold new via Newport Imports of Newport
Beach, California, with the accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History
Report placing the car in Mississippi by May 1994. Subsequent
registration history indicates that the Ferrari spent time in
Kentucky and Texas before passing to only its second owner in
January 2008 with 9,575 miles. Over the next 16 years, the car
would travel some 332 additional miles, necessitating a major
service in August 2023 due to its modest usage. San Rafael European
of San Rafael, California would conduct the comprehensive,
engine-out service, which included replacing the timing belt, seals
and O-rings, spark plugs, fuel hoses, exhaust gaskets, brake hoses,
clutch assembly, throw-out bearing, and resurfacing the flywheel.
The service, which exceeded $30,000, also included mounting and
balancing four new tires on its original Speedline alloy
wheels.
Thanks to its two careful owners, this 512 TR is offered in
remarkably well-preserved condition with none of the flaws and
blemishes one would expect of a 32-year-old car. Its gorgeous Nero
paintwork is extremely well presented, complemented by its matching
Nero leather-trimmed interior devoid of significant cracks, tears,
or shrinkage. With less than 20 miles traveled since its recent
major service, the polished aluminum shift knob beckons to its next
fortunate owner to engage in the iconic "click-clack" gear changes
only available in analog Ferraris of this era. Offered with its
original window sticker, two keys, owner's manuals in their leather
folio, and Schedoni leather tool kit, this attractive, low-mileage
Ferrari 512 TR presents an opportunity to enjoy a more powerful and
refined version of the already spectacular Testarossa in a rare
color combination, no less.
