From its debut at the 1984 Paris Auto Show through 1991, the Ferrari Testarossa cemented its reputation as the ultimate roadgoing Ferrari with its brilliant combination of performance, trend-setting styling and grand touring road manners. Such was its success that it became one of the all-time best selling models in Ferrari history with more than 7,200 sold. Successful as it was, the Testarossa needed both emission and safety upgrades, and Ferrari wanted to extend its service with more horsepower and better handling to capitalize on new suspension, braking and wheel and tire developments. Ten years after its 1984 introduction, the Testarossa debuted in its final evolution, the F512M, the “M” standing for “Modificato,” signifying improvements made to weight, styling and performance. New quad headlights beneath plastic covers, a reshaped grille opening flanked by lower fog lamps, and four circular tail lights above quad-tipped exhaust recalled the famed Daytona. Mechanically, the F512M’s horizontally opposed 12-cylinder engine led the enhancements with comprehensive upgrades ranging through higher 10.1:1 compression, Nikasil cylinder linings, titanium connecting rods, larger intake valves and improved induction and exhaust systems, combining to increase output to 440 HP at 6,750 RPM. The time-honored 5-speed manual gearbox was strengthened as well. One of 75 built for the U.S. market, this arresting 1995 Ferrari F512 M combines bold Rosso Corsa Red paint and Michelin Pilot Sport tires on 16-spoke alloy wheels with a black leather interior showing red piping and red dash, door and control accents. Accommodations have a decidedly racy feel, thanks to the custom Momo competition-style bucket seats, which firmly secure passengers with red Sabelt safety harnesses, as well as the famous gated manual shifter and drilled aluminum pedals. A 10,000 RPM tach and 200 MPH speedometer speak to the F512 M’s tremendous performance capabilities, while powerful Brembo disc brakes, air conditioning, power accessories, an Alpine AM/FM/CD stereo with hidden graphic equalizer and black and red Prancing Horse floor mats provide comfort and convenience for an elevated grand touring experience; the custom embroideries on the seat headrests are a unique and attractive finishing touch. This ultimate iteration of the Testarossa formula comes complete with a factory tool kit, owner’s manual and warranty book, a copy of the May 1999 issue of Car Audio and Electronics magazine, and a binder with Ferrari North America letters and service receipts.
