As one of Ferrari’s most iconic race cars from the late 1950s, the Testa Rossa needs no introduction to vintage racing enthusiasts. The name Testa Rossa, meaning “red head,” refers to the bright red camshaft covers sitting atop their potent engines. These racing machines carried their pilots through incredible feats of endurance, earning success on some of racing’s most sacred grounds, and proving Ferrari was the team to beat in races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, 12 Hours of Sebring, and Targa Florio. These impressive victories left an indelible impression on motor racing fans young and old throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Jim Rose was clearly one of those fans. Rose, an engineer who contributed to the Ford GT40 effort while working for Alan Mann Racing, was reportedly commissioned by racing driver Alistair Walker to construct a few high-quality and usable copies of the Ferrari TR59. In the early 1990s, Rose enlisted master craftsman Les Monk to fabricate the bodies. It is believed that only five cars were built in total, and this example, chassis 6481, is believed to have been the first one created.

Rose selected Ferrari’s 330 GT 2+2 as the base on which to build his homage. The 2+2 was a fast and comfortable four-seater grand touring model specifically designed for America’s vibrant export market. The model debuted in 1964 and featured the tipo 209 Colombo-derived V-12 engine displacing 4.0 liters and providing a top speed potential of more than 150 mph; it was an ideal platform for Rose to modify to his exacting specifications.

Beneath the exquisite aluminum bodywork, this refined recreation is built on 6481 and fitted with its original 4.0-liter V-12 powerplant. The engine was upgraded with six twin-throat Weber carburetors to match the vigor and style of the original Testa Rossa. Striking details include the wide-mouth grille, rivet-lined Plexiglas hood scoop, and pontoon headrest. The gated shifter and period-style instruments complete the immersive look and feel. Finished in lovely Rosso Corsa (Racing Red) with blue leather racing interior, this Testa Rossa recreation presents beautifully throughout. Subtle refinements during a previous long-term ownership show a determination to improve the Ferrari cosmetically and keep it in top driving condition.

Photos on file depict the bare chassis in Rose’s UK workshop being fitted with bodywork and the drivetrain and other components being added, and invoices document the extensive mechanical work, maintenance, and refinements that have been carried out. Currently housed in an impressive Southeastern collection, this unique Ferrari will surely be a noted addition to any true race enthusiast’s stable.