Having grown up in the 1980s, I can state unequivocally that, along with the Lamborghini Countach and Mercedes 560SL, the Ferrari Testarossa was one of those cars that displayed to the world that you were someone. Its popularity amongst the connoisseurs and the wealthy alike is evidenced by its 12 year production run resulting in almost 10,000 units manufactured. An evolution of the Ferrari 512i BB, the BB short for Berlinetta Boxer, the Testarossa improved upon the formula, adding space, comfort and power from the horizontally opposed 12 cylinder engine.

The car received a facelift in 1991 and a name change, to 512TR. Once again, power was increased from 390 to 428 horsepower, a new Bosch engine management system was employed and the front and rear fascias were updated to bring the styling in line with the newly released 348. The final iteration of the Testarossa appeared in 1994 as the F512 M, but this car was a more awkward than its predecessors, with its exposed headlights, fussy wheels and incongruous rear tail lights. The 512TR, for me, was the ultimate expression of the Testarossa. It improved upon the original yet kept much of its character intact. Like most Ferraris, I’ve mainly seen these models in shades or red, black or yellow. Occasionally you see a color outside of the normal Ferrari spectrum, such as this 512TR in Aubergine for sale in Belgium.

1994 Ferrari 512TR

Very well maintained 512 TR, Color: Aubergine with tobacco interior, alarm, power locking, cambelts changed at 88.443 km (03/2007). Very good condition!

I have never seen this color on a 512TR before, or any other Ferrari that I can remember. While it is a tad effeminate, I think this dark hue works great with the lines of the car. It gives it a rich, bespoke look befitting such an awesome machine. At €52,000 (~ $67,500 USD) it is about in line with current Testarossa prices, however, the mileage is a tad bit higher than you usually see. Still, it looks as if it was well cared for throughout its life and the cambelt service is a welcome relief. While this is a 1994 model and not eligible for importation to the United States for another seven years, it would be a nice buy for someone on The Continent seeking a uniquely colored Ferrari.

-Paul