Testarossa

Meaning “red head” due to the red cam covers, the 1984 Testarossa replaced the previously mentioned 512. Probably best known as Don Johnson’s run about in Miami Vice, and subsequently riled for its ostentatious lines, these cars are now beginning to attract the avant-garde collector.
Recognizable by its large cold-air inlets located on the side of the car. This was necessary because of the new location of the twin radiators in the rear. By doing this, it also allowed space up front for a little luggage.
Sparks cars in West London currently have this extremely low mileage 1991 example at £75,000.00. When first launched the selling price in the UK was £62,666.00. Should they continue in the same vain as their predecessors, the now classic Daytona, and emerging classic the 512, these Testarosa’s have to be considered as a worthwhile place to park some money for ten years. Surely wiser than squandering double that on the current offering and watching it sink like a stone…

Ferrari 512 BB

It’s difficult to write about the 512 BB without first mentioning the 365 BB.

Originally announced in 1971 at the Turin Motor show as a replacement to the now much loved Daytona, the 365 was produced for 5 years before being superseded following a few alterations, by the similar 512 BB.

Despite being the successor, the 512 was actually less powerful, not as quick and slightly heavier. This was due mainly to new government legislation and the usual safety regulations of the time.

In spite of its lineage, both the design and engine layout of the 365 and 512 were massively different, and were a huge departure from its famous predecessor.
Like the Dino this was mid-engined and the flat V12 was mounted longitudinally as opposed to transversely. This set up making the cross over from Ferrari’s 312b 1970 Formula One car of the time. It’s also worth mentioning that Lamborghini’s futuristic Muira (definitely the subject of a future piece) had a similar lay out some seven years earlier.

In 1981 having produced only 387 BB365’s and 929 BB512’s the model was again up graded, to the 512 BBi. Ferraris almost ever present Weber carbs were replaced by a Bosch K- Jetronic fuel injection system, which made the car far easier to service and the engine slightly less rigid. Very few aesthetic alterations were made, the most noticeable being small white running lights above the front spoiler.

Come the next economic boom (circa 2025) and subsequent scramble for classic Fezza’s , this one is sure to be near the head of the list. Should anyone wish to pre-empt this, DK engineering have a beautiful concours 512 BB, fully restored by Nick Cartwright.

Ferrari 250GT LWB California Spider

The 250 GT California Spider in long wheelbase form was first built in 1957, with coachwork designed and built by Scaglietti in Modena. Around fifty examples were constructed, of which chassis # 1253 GT was the twenty first built before it was succeeded by the virtually identical short wheelbase (2400mm) version in 1960. It has always been a highly desirable car, and when new was very popular with those in the entertainment business, as apart from James Coburn, the Italian tenor Maria del Monaco and the French film director (and one time husband of Brigitte Bardot) Roger Vadim were other high profile owners. The model’s cult status was highlighted when a replica featured in the 1986 film ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’, nearly twenty five years after it had ceased production. Currently owned by the new Radio 2 breakfast show presenter Chris Evans, H R Owen in London are offering this car for sale

First Post

First post. Right. So basically i shall start with a statement of intent. This blog hopes to highlight the most interesting sports cars and classics available on the world wide market for both the enthusiast to enjoy vicariously, and for the discerning buyer to consider adding to their collection. Interest and history will be the defining criteria, not simply an eye-watering asking price.