1989 Ferrari Testarossa
Vehicle Specifications
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The Legendary Ferrari Testarossa: An Icon of the 1980s
The Ferrari Testarossa is one of the most recognizable and beloved supercars of all time. Introduced at the 1984 Paris Auto Show, the Testarossa (Italian for "red head") captured the world's imagination with its radical Pininfarina styling, featuring the iconic side strakes that channeled air to the rear-mounted radiators. Made famous by the television show Miami Vice, the Testarossa became the ultimate symbol of 1980s excess, wealth, and style.
The Flat-12 Heart
Beneath the dramatic bodywork lies Ferrari's legendary 4.9-liter F113 Flat-12 engine. This masterpiece of engineering produces 380 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, enough to propel the Testarossa to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and on to a top speed of over 180 mph. The engine's flat configuration (actually a 180-degree V12) keeps the center of gravity exceptionally low, contributing to the car's legendary handling.
The sound of a Flat-12 at full throttle is unlike anything else — a high-pitched wail that builds to a crescendo as the tachometer approaches its 7,000 rpm redline. It's an auditory experience that Ferrari enthusiasts dream about.
About This Specific Testarossa
This 1989 Ferrari Testarossa is finished in the quintessential Rosso Corsa (Ferrari Red) over a Tan leather interior. With just 34,000 original miles, this example has been driven regularly but carefully, avoiding the pitfalls of low-mileage garage queens while maintaining exceptional condition.
The car was originally delivered to California and has spent its entire life in a dry climate. It comes with a complete service history, including the all-important major engine-out service (belt change) performed at 32,000 miles. The current owner has spared no expense, with recent service records totaling over $15,000.
Recent Maintenance & Service History
- ✅ Major engine-out service (32k miles) — Timing belts, tensioners, water pump, cam seals, valve adjustment
- ✅ Fuel system — Fuel injectors cleaned and flow-tested, new fuel filters, fuel pump
- ✅ Cooling system — New radiator, thermostat, coolant hoses
- ✅ Brake system — New brake pads, rotors, caliper rebuilds
- ✅ Suspension — New shocks, control arm bushings, tie rod ends
- ✅ Clutch — New clutch assembly at 30,000 miles
- ✅ Tires — New Pirelli P Zero tires (less than 500 miles)
- ✅ Air conditioning — Converted to R134a, blows ice cold
- ✅ Electrical — All systems functional, including original stereo
The Testarossa Market: A Blue-Chip Investment
The Ferrari Testarossa market has seen significant appreciation over the past decade. According to auction data from RM Sotheby's, Gooding & Company, and Bring a Trailer:
- 📊 Average Testarossa sale price in 2024: $165,000 (up 120% from 2014)
- 📊 Low-mileage, well-documented examples have sold for $220,000+
- 📊 The Testarossa has outperformed many other 80s supercars (Countach, 959, 288 GTO)
- 📊 The 1989 model year is desirable for its refined components and later-spec updates
- 📊 Miami Vice nostalgia continues to drive demand among Gen X and Millennial collectors
At $159,900, this Testarossa is priced below current market average for a well-documented, 34k-mile example. This represents an excellent entry point into blue-chip Ferrari ownership.
Driving the Testarossa
The Testarossa is surprisingly usable for a supercar of its era. The cabin is spacious (especially compared to a Countach), the ride is compliant, and the air conditioning actually works. The dogleg first gear (first gear is left and back, second is left and forward) takes some getting used to, but the gated shifter provides a satisfying mechanical engagement.
On the open road, the Testarossa feels stable and planted at triple-digit speeds. The power steering is heavy by modern standards but provides excellent feedback. The brakes (ventilated discs all around) are powerful and fade-resistant. This is a car that was designed to be driven — and driven hard.
What to Look For When Buying a Testarossa
As experts in exotic cars, here's what we inspect on every Testarossa:
- 🔧 Service history — The major engine-out service (timing belts) is required every 3-5 years or 30,000 miles. This car has documented service at 32k miles.
- 🔧 Camshaft seals — These are known to leak. This car's seals were replaced during the major service.
- 🔧 Air conditioning — Original systems often fail. This car has been converted to R134a and works perfectly.
- 🔧 Electrical systems — Test all switches, lights, and gauges. All function on this car.
- 🔧 Body panels — Check for repaints or accident damage. This car wears original paint with no accidents.
- 🔧 Documentation — We have original owner's manual, tool kit, service records, and window sticker.
Shipping This Ferrari Testarossa to Your State
We offer enclosed transport to anywhere in the United States and worldwide. Here are estimated shipping costs to popular locations:
📞 Call +1 201-285-2590 for an exact quote. Worldwide shipping available — we've shipped Ferraris to the UK, Germany, Japan, UAE, and Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Ferrari Testarossa
Everything you need to know before buying a classic Ferrari
