1984-1991 Ferrari Testarossa: Red and Ready to Go into the Red Zone

The harder you drive it the
better! Keep it above 3000
RPM and go into the red
zone on the tach and you
and the Ferrari Testarossa
will be happy.

The Testarossa was named
for its red valve covers. It
was unveiled at the Paris
Auto Show in 1984 (It is
reported that the car was
actually released at the
Champs-Elysees night club).
The car's Pininfarina design
has a wedge shape, a low

hood line, and side air intakes that run almost from wheel to wheel

At the rear, the wheels are nearly six inches father apart than the front wheels,
and the rear fender flairs are wide enough to sit on. The fenders also hold the
radiators used to cool the 4.9-liter mid-engine V12 (Ferrari called it a flat 12)
delivering 390 hp. The Testarossa does 0-60 in 5 seconds with a top speed of 180
mph, which at the time, was in a league all its own except for maybe a Lamborghini
Countach. The transmission is a five speed manual operated through a metal gate

The shifter and non assisted power steering require some effort. However, the
ride is compliant and it is a surprisingly easy day-in and day-out drive. In fact,
given its over the top looks, the Testarossa one of the easiest supercars to drive.
The car's outward view is very good. The interior consists of beautiful stitched
leather and a comfortable driving environment. The car is reported to be quite
reliable if the necessary preventative maintenance performed.

The Testarossa's engine needs to be removed every 30,000 miles or five years
for a major servicing. This consists of replacing the timing belts and having
the valves adjusted. In addition, the engine's seals, bearings, and other wear
parts are frequently replaced at a cost of $8,000. In between the major servicing
is the minor servicing that costs about $4,000. Last, but not least, it is recommended
that the Testarossa receive an annual checkup for an oil change and fluids at
a cost of about $1,000.

If these costs seem expensive, consider that snapping a timing belt could cost
as much in engine damage as a small house and a transmission rebuild could
cost as much as a Kia Optima. Thus, preventative maintenance actually keeps
the costs down.

The payback for the money spent is one of the best driving experiences
that any supercar can deliver. When new in 1986, the Ferrari Testarossa cost
$102,500. Today, the car can be purchased for $35,000 to $60,000. For some
Enthusiasts, the Testarossa offers a supercar driving experience at a relatively
affordable price.

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price..." He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com.