Ferrari Testarossa - A sexy 'maal' indeed!

[shafey]

When I think of Ferrari, I think of the Testarossa. The long sweeping lines, aggressive front, and wide stance represent the fantastic styling of Ferrari in the 1980's and early 1990's. The rakish side vents were the main styling feature of the car; they were very functional as well, something that cannot be said of many cars today. The outrageous and stunning design is possibly what inspired the fascination of cars for many of us.

Officially introduced at the Paris Auto Salon in 1984, the Testarossa was built as a successor to the Berlinetta Boxer (the 512ibb being the most recent version). While many of the basic specifications of the BB remained in the Testarossa, the structure of the car received a large amount of improvements. The wheelbase was stretched by 50mm, and the front and rear track were widened for an increase in maximum handling performance. The engine displacement remained the same, but the addition of an extra two valves per cylinder (Quattrovalvole) along with the increased cooling of the side vents helped increase power.

Structure

Ferrari used a variety of materials in the construction of the Testarossa. The chassis is formed of steel square tubes, and the doors are made of steel as well. Front bumpers are made of plastic, and the rest of the body is mostly constructed of lightweight aluminum. The aforementioned steel chassis featured a removable rear subframe that allowed relatively easy access to the engine for servicing.

Drivetrain/Performance

The 5-liter flat-12's roots go all the way back to 1975 when the Ferrari 312 T won the Gran Prix Driver's and Constructor's championship. The American version of the flat-12 was slightly different than the European version. A compression of 8.7:1 was used instead of 9.2:1 due to emission regulations, resulting in a net loss of 10 horsepower. Even with the lower compression, the 380 bhp at 5750rpm and 354 lb-ft torque at 4500rpm was sufficient in making it one of the top supercars of the 1980's along with Lamborghini's Countach. Acceleration to 60 mph took only just over 5 seconds, and the Testarossa could scream all the way to 180 mph. The unassisted steering with coil springs and Koni shock absorbers provided drivers with sharp and responsive handling. Braking was taken care of by massive disk brakes and four piston calipers.

Evolution

Over its eleven year lifespan, the Testarossa received many changes, some in appearance and some in performance. Early versions can be recognized by the single rear view mirror on the driver's side. The additional mirror was finally added in 1987. Also on earlier cars was a single large nut securing the wheel that was later replaced by five hub bolts. 1991 brought the first major changes to the Testarossa, and the name was changed to 512TR. A one-piece nose with a rounded front grille and single piece front mounted lights provided a more modern look. Aerodynamics was improved by a new undertray and a small lip at the rear. To go along with the updated look, the previous 16-inch five spoke wheels were replaced with larger 18-inch cast alloy wheels with slightly thinner spokes. On the inside, the 512TR received an updated center console, redesigned seats, and a Momo steering wheel. Finally, power output was improved to compete with the ever-evolving supercar market. Increased compression (10:1), revised valves, and a modified intake system led to an impressive 421 bhp at 6750 rpm and 360 lb-ft of torque at 5500 rpm.

The final update to the Testarossa series came in late 1994 when the 512M was introduced as a 1995 model, the "M" standing for modified. Once again the exterior of the car was given a more modern appearance with fixed headlights above new round fog lights. Yet another new undertray further improved aerodynamics. Ferrari continued to update the interior, offering optional racing seats and new carbon fiber trim. Most importantly, power was once again boosted with the addition of forged aluminum pistons, titanium connecting rods, an improved crankshaft, redesigned combustion chambers, and a modified exhaust system. U.S. customers enjoyed a full 432 bhp at 6750 rpm and 367 lbs-ft at 5500 rpm behind their heads.

Sadly, all great things have an end. After just two years, the 512M and the Testarossa line was discontinued along with the legendary 5-liter flat-12. The front-engine V12 Maranello has since become Ferrari's steadfast flagship. Even though it's nearly a decade old the Testarossa's styling remains modern and eye-catching. It's performance is still on par with many of today's high performance cars. As for me, the newer Ferraris look fantastic, but the Testarossa will always come to mind when I think of Enzo's fantastic automobiles.

Last but not the least -
This car is undoubtedly one of the best production cars in the world till date and you have to agree with me.

[rawfin]

nice post man! kool info indeed! :)

herez a pic. (not that good)
http://www.itana.it/images/ferrari/ferr ... sa%203.jpg

[GTI VR6]

Hey shafey, I don't know if you have checked your inbox lately, but I have sent you a message regarding citing the sources of the articles that you post. In the following thread http://drivetimedhaka.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=74 Monk has asked us to cite the sources.

The Testarossa article that you have posted has been written by a guy named Drew Phillips on December 4th, 2003 for Fast-Autos.net. Please be sure to add this info in your post. I have done it twice for you, but you should do it yourself from now on.

[Guest]

yeeoopss!
m sory man

i didn any msg in ma inbox

sry

[Monk]

the testarossa was the worst handling ferarri ever made. the reason being the engine used to sit right on top of the rear axle. anyone who 's actually driven one will tell you the same.