Ferrari 512 TR (1993)

The 512 TR was the replacement for the Testarossa, and was announced for the 1992 model year. The new car witnessed a return to a model title using characters, with the figure "5" referring to the cubic capacity of the engine in litres and the "12" to the number of cylinders, whilst the "TR" was an abbreviation of Testarossa (Testa Rossa). The main external visual differences were the nose and tail treatment, the louvre design on the engine lid and the design of the road wheels. There was also a barely noticeable different profile to the sail panel buttresses, which were plain and flowed directly into the roof panel on the 512 TR, instead of featuring the step and black perforated exhaust air grilles of the Testarossa. Internally there were changes to the seats, steering wheel design and trim details. Mechanically there were numerous changes to the engine and gearbox, which boosted power, and provided a more satisfying and positive to use gearbox. Not visually apparent was that the engine and transmission assembly location in the chassis had been dropped by 30mm, to lower the centre of gravity, and thus improve the already high standard of roadholding.

The net result of these changes was a jump in the claimed power output of 38bhp to 428bhp @ 6750rpm for European models and 421bhp at the same engine speed for US models. The increased power provided improved acceleration, although the top speed was still in line with that of its predecessor.

This example was supplied new to its first keeper, Mr van Kouwen of Neerpelt, Belgium by Ferrari Kroymans on 22nd July 1993. It would return to the supplying dealership for its first few years, covering a mere 8,850 km by August of 1996.

By 2015, the car had covered just 31,500 km and, in the years, since, it has been used increasingly sparingly between service intervals. Many of those services have been carried out at Ferrari main dealerships, with TUV inspections in between supporting the mileage. Purchased by Mr Schmauser in 2001, the car would remain in his care for a period of 21 years.

Purchased on condition by its current custodian in October 2022 following a major service by Maranello Motors GmbH, this example has since been used sparingly, covering a mere 3,200 km in the four years since.

Offered for sale today accompanied by its original books and history folio, this example will be treated to a major service including cambelts as a part of the sale, to be carried out in our workshops. This 512 TR is available to view immediately by appointment.

• Supplied new to Belgium by Ferrari Kroymans in July 1993
• Optioned in the iconic Rosso Corsa over Nero
• Powered by the updated 4.9-litre flat-vee twelve offering 422 hp
• Retained by its former keeper for 21 years
• Purchased by the current custodian in 2022
• Major service including cambelts to be carried out as part of the sale
• Just 36,200 km from new