Fantasy Junction

Description

1996 Ferrari F512 M

VIN – ZFFVA40JPN0104105
Exterior Color – Red
Interior Color –Black Leather
Engine – 4.9 Liter Flat 12 cylinder
Transmission – 5-speed manual
Current Kilometers – 24,696 kilometers

Highlights of this Ferrari

- One of just 426 examples built for the European market
- Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” certified in 2023
- An original, documented 15,300-mile example

General Overview

Introduced in 1984, the Testarossa was built to be the premier sports car in the growing American exotic car market. The unique design, contemporary cockpit, capable air conditioning, and a US based emission-compliant 12-cylinder engine elevated the Testarossa to premier supercar status. The bold twin radiator openings appeared even more dramatically accented by five horizontal strakes, giving the Testarossa a unique visual signature. Quick and capable at high speeds, the Testarossa was appointed with leather interior, a sizable trunk, comfortable seating position, and composed ergonomics.

In 1992, the Testarossa was released as the new 512 TR, considerably re-engineered to compete head-to-head with Lamborghini’s new Diablo. The improved chassis was stiffer, featured a lower-mounted engine and gearbox, gas-filled rear shocks, and a lower ride height, all of which greatly improved performance and handling. By 1994 the 512M was released as the final version of the Testarossa series.

With the new 512M, the body design offered a more aerodynamic bumper and grille, tinted headlight lenses covering fixed headlights, a new hood with integrated NACA ducts, and redesigned taillights along with a revised rear bumper. The interior received minor updates including improved air conditioning, now offered as standard equipment, and optional no-cost extra carbon seats. As the final iteration of this series, just 501 512Ms were produced, 75 of which were designated for North America.

History of This Car

This example was sold by Cornes & Co, LTD, Japan and delivered to the first owner in Japan where it remained under various ownership from 1996 through 2015 as documented in the Japanese registration records on file with the car. Located more recently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in January 2023, this Ferrari received the Ferrari Chassiche “Red Book” and Ferrari Certificate documenting and validating the mechanical components, engine numbers, and chassis numbers. Delivered in July 1996, this is one of 426 512Ms built for the European market. Finished in Rosso Corsa 300 with Nero 8500 black leather interior, the Red Book identifies important original features including original paint, the original chassis and chassis number, the original engine bearing the original factory number, and the original factory 5-speed gearbox. The Red Book further documents the factory suspension components, Bilstein shock absorbers, original Brembo ventilated disc brakes, and all four correct Speedline factory light alloy wheels.

Under current ownership, recent mechanical work performed in 2023 by Ferrari dealer and service center Premier Motors, Abu Dhabi, includes the installation of a new radiator, an annual service replacing oil and filter, fresh gearbox oil, new front brake pads, electrical work for various lighting, and replacement of one door seal. In 2024, Tomini Classics performed and engine out service replacing the timing belt and tensioner bearings, all new fluids, and replacement of the engine compartment struts.

General Condition

Today with just 24,696 kilometers indicated on the six-digit speedometer, this properly preserved and maintained low mile 512M is beautifully finished in stunning red with black leather interior. The vivid red finish is smooth and glossy throughout, retaining a high gloss finish on the original body panels. A small paint chip is visible in the center of the rear edge of the hood, and the lower front edge of the air dam has a previously touched up paint chip. The remaining body panels are otherwise in excellent condition throughout. The front and rear of the car is trimmed with body-colored bumpers both of which are in excellent condition. The hood, deck lid, and doors open and shut easily with excellent factory panel gaps and consistent bumper to body fit. The glass, trim, and emblems are in excellent condition. The lighting and lenses throughout the car remain in excellent condition as well, showing no significant chips or marks, all of which appear to be original equipment. The factory Speedline alloy wheels are polished and trimmed with Ferrari center emblems wearing Pirelli PZero 235/40 ZR18 front and 295/35 ZR18 rear tires.

The black leather interior is beautifully presented throughout. The leather is clean, smooth, and supple. Seating cushions and support bolsters are quite nice as are the door panels and center console. The dash pad, instrument panel, accent panels, rotating knobs, and hidden radio compartment all appear in very nice condition overall and function appropriately. The factory gauges have excellent color and clear lenses, as well as crisp factory numeric details. A beautifully maintained steering wheel and 5-speed gear selector finish off the driver’s area in keeping with the Ferrari legacy. All systems function properly including lighting, gauges, heater, fans, and AC which blows cold. The carpeting and door thresholds all remain clean and devoid of any notable scuffs or stains, while the headliner is clean, tight, and properly fit to the roof and inner A-posts.

The engine compartment and trunk are likewise nicely maintained and present in excellent cosmetic condition. The engine is very nicely detailed with excellent finishes, properly preserved engine components, and factory labeled engine bay. Cosmetically the engine area is very clean and original in appearance, having benefited from recent belt service, fluid changes, and detailing when the recent engine-out service was performed. The chassis is in excellent condition, free from any structural damage or compromise to the suspension or finned cast alloy engine and transmission casings, The exhaust system, brakes, and factory chassis panels are all in excellent condition. The undercarriage finishes further support the documented low mileage of this rare and beautifully maintained Ferrari 512M.

As one might expect of a low mile properly maintained and fully serviced late model Ferrari, this 512M performs beautifully. The car starts instantly, offering a smooth and throaty growl. Driving this historically important final edition 512M is a reminder of the finest achievement in a 20th century Ferrari. The 5-speed manual gearbox works in perfect harmony with progressive 12-cylinder acceleration offering great torque managing the high-revving power delivered when exiting each corner. The brakes operate properly with a firm, high pedal and the gearbox engages smoothly. Seating position accommodates taller drivers and allows for easily reached controls, while the visibility and ease of use validate the superb refinements offered in this final series 512M. With such easy driving manners, one quickly forgets that you are piloting one of the most iconic and memorable modern Ferraris ever built.

Items Included with the Car

The Ferrari 512M is accompanied by the matching VIN stamped Ferrari Classiche Red Book and Certificate, a complete set of factory manuals with Ferrari leather pouch, the factory leather wrapped tool case with complete tools and spare belt, tire inflator, red safety triangle and case, copies of the Japanese ownership history, selected service invoices under current ownership, and a set of Ferrari branded floor mats.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608