In 1994, Ferrari unveiled the final iteration of its famed Testarossa, the F512 M, or Modificata, Italian for “modified.” In an effort to properly send-off to its last...
In 1994, Ferrari unveiled the final iteration of its famed Testarossa, the F512 M, or Modificata, Italian for “modified.” In an effort to properly send-off to its last production mid-engine flat-12 model, Ferrari updated the chassis, engine, and overall design to distinguish it from earlier versions of the Testarossa, while providing a quantum leap in performance and overall driving experience. Numerous internal engine upgrades, including titanium rods and other lightened components, helped to increase horsepower and compression over its 512 predecessor while reducing weight. Engine modifications coupled with chassis refinements such as a new stainless exhaust, updated suspension, and a new Bosch ABS braking system all combined for more power and better handling assisted by a near 50/50 weight distribution. The F512 M could achieve 0–60 in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph, very impressive figures even today.
The F512 M also stands apart visually from its predecessors and is best recognized by its exposed headlights, redesigned oval grille, and more unified five-slat rear section. Much like the Testarossa it is based on, the F512 M retained the classic slatted side intakes, while also featuring new and improved, skewed five-spoke wheels, a fitting cue for Modificata. Finally, the air conditioning system was refined and interior trim updated throughout to put the finishing touches on a complete redesign. Ferrari produced a total of 501 F512 M examples from 1994 to 1996; of those, only 75 were imported to the U.S. market and all were sold as 1995 models.
This 1995 Ferrari F512 M was originally sold through Miller Motorcars of Greenwich, CT to a customer from New York in 1996. Subsequently, four successive owners have assiduously maintained and cared for this striking motorcar. Presented in the Classic livery of Nero over Beige and having covered approximately 28,000 miles, it remains in stunning original condition. The consignor has kept the car in a climate-controlled garage in Palm Beach since his acquisition several years ago. It remains a well-maintained example with a full service “engine out” belt change, completed in August of 2022. The Ferrari is accompanied by its complete set of original books including the original owner's manual and warranty book, leather cased tool set, two sets of keys, alarm system, car cover, battery tender and binder with all maintenance records.
The current owner is a true automotive enthusiast and afficionado of the Ferrari marque. His considered opinion is that the 512M is the epitome of the Classic Era Ferrari and the
last of the truly Analog Mid-Engine Sports cars built by Ferrari. He put considerable time and effort into researching the model and in so doing launched the F512M Registry USA where he listed all seventy-five US production cars built with their attributes and detailed histories. With this information in hand, he sought out the best of the breed and settled on this example; one of only fifteen US examples delivered to the US finished in Nero (black). With so few examples in this color combination it makes it certainly one of the rarest Ferraris built in that era. Struck by its amazing original and well maintained condition, he embarked on a very successful show career with a Ferrari Club of America “Platinum” award every time it has been shown in Competition with two successful appearances at the prestigious Cavallino Concours in Palm Beach Florida.
With more and more technology being added to today's supercars, analog examples have become increasingly desirable among collectors, and this 1995 Ferrari F512 M is no exception. The current owner commented, “I have enjoyed this car and will miss the excitement that comes from the sound of the 12-cylinder engine working together with the gated shifter.” Presented in very rare original Ferrari colors and being the 44th of only 75 imported to the U.S., this well-maintained, example offers an opportunity that cannot be missed for the next owner to enjoy the last and best mid-engine 12-cylinder Ferrari produced.