1994 Ferrari 512 TR
Coachwork by Pininfarina
Chassis no. ZFFLA40S000099215
Engine no. 36631

Introduced in 1992, the 512 TR was one of the final developments of Ferrari's sensational Testarossa supercar. Ferrari's flagship model, the Testarossa revived a famous name from the Italian company's past when it arrived in 1984. A 'next generation' Berlinetta Boxer, the Testarossa retained its predecessor's amidships-mounted, 5.0-litre, flat-12 engine; the latter now boasting a maximum power output raised to 380bhp at 6,300rpm courtesy of four-valve cylinder heads. Despite the power increase, smoothness and driveability were enhanced, the car possessing excellent top gear flexibility allied to a maximum speed of 180mph.

Rivalling Lamborghini's Countach for presence, the Pininfarina-designed Testarossa succeeded brilliantly, the gill slats feeding air to its side-mounted radiators being one of the modern era's most instantly recognisable – and copied - styling devices. A larger car than the 512BB - the increase in width being necessary to accommodate wider tyres - the Testarossa managed the trick of combining high downforce with a low coefficient of drag, its graceful body being notable for the absence of extraneous spoilers and other such devices. Despite the increase in size over the 512BB, the Testarossa was lighter than its predecessor, the body - its steel doors and roof excepted - being, somewhat unusually for a production Ferrari, of aluminium. Luxury touches in the well-equipped cabin included air conditioning, electrically adjustable seats, tilting steering wheel and plentiful leather. Unlike some of its rivals, the Testarossa possessed light controls and was relatively easy to drive, factors which, allied to its outstanding performance and stunning looks, contributed to an instant and sustained high level of demand.

In 1992 the original Testarossa was succeeded by the updated 512 TR version, which featured a repositioned engine; strengthened gearbox; lower centre of gravity and ride height; numerous suspension upgrades; larger brakes; and 18" diameter wheels, while the cabin boasted new instruments, seats and switch gear. The 512 TR also came with 428bhp on tap and noticeably greater grip than its predecessor, the latter being much appreciated by Autocar's tester: "The 512 resolved information about the road surface explicitly; the Testarossa's feedback wasn't as sharply focussed nor ultimately as useful when travelling quickly." And the 512 TR could certainly manage that, its claimed top speed being a breathtaking 314km/h (195mph). Autocar even went so far as to claim that the 512 TR's engine was the finest in the world: "This incredible engine, which will pull from under 10mph in fifth without so much as a cough of protest, has as pure and inspirational note as any tester here can remember." Unlike many rivals, the Testarossa's successor was found to be quiet, comfortable and easy to drive. "All of which makes the 512 TR the greatest 12-cylinder Ferrari since the Daytona. Praise comes no higher."

This matching numbers 512 TR was sold new in Switzerland by the Fritz Leirer Ferrari dealership and was first owned by Mr Bernet Walter, who took delivery on 21st May 1994. The Ferrari has been serviced twice: by Fritz Leirer on 11th May 1998 at 7,316 kilometres, and by Garage D Hagmann on 3rd February 2014 at 16,200 kilometres, including a change of timing belts (invoice on file). The current odometer reading is 16,425 kilometres.

Finished in the classic colour combination of Rosso Corsa with beige leather interior, this exceptional 512 TR comes complete with tool kit, Ferrari umbrella, car cover, and all its original books, and is a most attractive proposal for the Ferrari aficionado. Please note that this car has been stored for some years and will require servicing before returning to the road.

Please note the following: VAT will be payable on the hammer price and buyer's premium at the standard rate if the car remains in Switzerland.