The Testarossa debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 1984. Its name derived from the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT featuring a 60 degree V-12 engine that won many endurance races with legendary drivers such as Hill, Collins, and Gendebien. It was this engine that reached a specific power in excess of 100 horsepower per liter first. This high output engine featured red valve head covers (instead of the usual black); thus, it came to be known as the "Testarossa" which means "red head".

In 1984, the name Testarossa was given to the car that was to achieve many awards including "Design of the Year" and the "Car Design Award". Acclaim recognized not only the aesthetics of the car but its technical accomplishments as well.

The Testarossa was not only powerful, but fast. It was also comfortable. It became an immediate success with both critics and the public alike.

It's difficult to surpass excellence, particularly when comparing it with the Testarossa -- a car which had already attained a very high level of performance, maximum speed, acceleration, and road handling. How was it possible to proceed one step further?

In 1991, the answer was the Ferrari 512 TR. The new testarossa represented a big step up in Ferrari performance. With 41 more horsepower than its predecessor, the new 428 bhp engine shaves a big 1.0 seconds off the already impressive 5.7 second 0-60 mph speed. The chassis has been extensively reconstructed as has the 5 speed manual transmission, and brakes. A minor facelift adds to the new bodywork giving the TR a more aggressive, lean look yet holds that timeless Testarossa style intact.

I've always loved Ferraris for their beauty and power, but one that really caught my attention was the Ferrari 512 TR. I hope to test drive one someday. The closest I've ever come to driving the Ferrari 512 TR is in the game Need For Speed by Electronic Arts. This is one of the best racing games I have ever played.