When it comes to classic supercars, there is perhaps no car that has been as iconic and iconicized as the Ferrari Testarossa. Released in 1984, the Testarossa quickly became the quintessential supercar of the 1980s. From its distinctive looks to its unparalleled speed and power, the Ferrari Testarossa quickly became a mainstay in popular culture and would go on to become one of the most recognizable and desirable cars of the era.
The Making of the Ferrari Testarossa
The Ferrari Testarossa was the successor to the iconic Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer, released in 1974. The engineers at Ferrari wanted to replace the aging model with a more modern and aerodynamically-sound design that could push the boundaries of performance and engineering. To achieve this lofty goal, Ferrari enlisted Pininfarina’s design team to create the Testarossa’s boldly sculpted body.
The Ferrari Testarossa utilized a mid-engine flat-12 engine that had a capacity of 4.9-liters and could produce up to 390 horsepower. This tremendous power was then coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox for near instantaneous power delivery. It also featured an innovative suspension system that helped give the Testarossa a remarkably smooth ride.
The Testarossa’s Relicability
The Ferrari Testarossa was an instant success with the press and public alike. Both magazines and television shows viewed the car as a symbol of the newfound wealth of the 1980s and Ferrari owners quickly became posterboys for the decade. The exotic and stylish Testarossa also featured in popular films of the 1980s such as the ‘Miami Vice’ series and ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’.
But perhaps even more impressive than its attention-grabbing looks and celebrity associations, was the Testarossa’s remarkable durability. The engine has had a long history of being reliable and easy to maintain, thus making it highly sought-after by car enthusiasts.
The Testarossa’s Amazing Performance & Technology
Aside from its instantly recognizable looks, the Ferrari Testarossa was notable for its performance figures. This mid-engine supercar could sprint from 0-60mph in just 5 seconds, and had a top speed of 180mph. It was, and remains, one of the fastest cars of its era, and firmly established Ferrari and the Testarossa as the safest and most reliable supercars on the market.
The Ferrari Testarossa also featured an impressive array of advanced technological features. In 1984, these included advanced air-management system, computerized ignition, electronically controlled adjustable suspension, adjustable anti-roll bars, disc brakes, and more. All of these features helped set the Testarossa apart from other cars of its era and made it one of the most advanced supercars of its time.
The Rarity of the Ferrari Testarossa
Although the Testarossa remains an iconic supercar, it remains incredibly rare. Of the 7,177 models produced during the 13-year production run, only a small handful remain on public roads today. This makes the car an incredibly sought-after piece of Ferrari history and has sparked a renewed interest among car enthusiasts and investors alike.
Ferrari Testarossa Ownership Today
Despite its rarity, original Testarossas can still occasionally be found on the market. However, due to their age and previous use, it’s recommended that prospective buyers make sure to thoroughly check the car for any previous repairs or damage that could create problems in the future. Prices for original Testarossas can range anywhere from $143,000 to $395,000, depending on the condition and its associated provenance.
Even after more than four decades, the Ferrari Testarossa continues to remain one of the most iconic and recognizable supercars ever created. Its relentless engineering and bold design language has established it as a timeless classic and it continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world. Today, the Testarossa is a tangible reminder of the era from which it came from and will continue to be a symbol of this exciting moment in automotive history for years to come.
