[Mera]

I am looking to buy a Testarossa probably next year but I want to start looking now so I am ready by then. I will certainly not buy one off ebay. I hope to get a later model year. Early 90's. I take it the 512M is only the last year? What are some going prices and what are the 512M's going for? I have thought of buying a NSX but I feel it is just not enough as I want something more. I have always wanted a Countach but I tend to think owning one may be a nightmare and I also would most likely only want the 25th anniversary. I live in Milwaukee and soon will be taking a ride to Chicago to spend the day at the 2 Ferrari dealers there. Looking for input on maintenance concerns etc. I have heard the auto seat belts systems are very problem some and I may want to stay away from them. What years had them? I have heard from a few that have said the Testarossa was a very good car.

[williamtaylor]

Mera, There is a Buyer's Guide on the Testarossa/512TR/512M in the Members section which might be of help. Good luck with your search.

[jungathart]

Hi and welcome,
Looks like you are all over the place in terms of selection: these are all very different cars, and with vastly differing prices! If you are set on a Testarossa and price is no object, the 512M is the best and last incarnation of the design. Only @500 were built: prices start in the 150's and up.
Check out the excellent buyer's guide here on FerrariForum. I, too, am considering adding a T-rossa to the stable by spring.
Aside from the M and perhaps TR variation, T-rossas are continuing a steady depreciation. Keith Martin of Sports Car Market anticipates the car will fully level out in 2 years time and hold steady from that point on.
I am informed to expect running cost for one of these to be noticeably more than an 8-cylinder. As luck would have it, I have had little trouble with my MD-QV and cannot relate as of yet!
Mera, you only go around once: get the car of your dreams! 8)

[Mera]

I am slowly becoming more and more familiar with the Testarossa. I was not aware that they changed the name from Testarossa in 91 to the 512 TR in 92. I do remember the articles on the 512M when they were new. I see the prices are much greater when you get into the 92 and up 512's. My choice is a 91 or older. The biggest reason for this is the rim design. I just love the look of the Testarossa rims. I have to say I am sad they changed them on the 512's. Looking at prices I see the 91 and older Testarossa's are in my price range. I am well aware of the 5 year belt change schedule. Part of owning one. I will be in Chicago in about a week and a half and I'll make stops at Lake Forest (I have not yet been at their new location) and Continental Motorsports. I'm sure I'll learn a lot that day. I am looking to buy next year but I want to become educated this year. The biggest thing in buying one is becoming educated and knowing that the one you are looking at is a good one and the price is right. Mine will be red/tan also. Sorry. Has to be red/tan.


Why do I see 88 1/2's? Was there a design change that year? I certainly would prefer a 91 as it most likely has some upgrades from earlier years. Any reason to think the earlier (90 and back) are less attractive to own than a 91?

[Boxer]

Mera, You are very right to learn as much as you can before diving in to ownership. The two best cars I have purchased both took me 9-12 months to research and find.

Regarding your question on the Testarossas, 91 was the last year of the original model run. In 92 several major changes were made and the model name was changed to 512 TR. A 90 TR will be identical to a 91 TR. I believe that there is a Buyers GUide in the Members section that has more details on all this.

Good luck with your search.