1991 Ferrari Testarossa review from UK and Ireland
"Fabulous design and performance - an absolute classic , but over-priced at present"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Heater/air conditioning fan would not switch off.
There are 2 engine management units - each one monitors 6 cylinders. Maintaining the 'equal balance' between the two to ensure correct fuel flow for smooth running, was a job that had to be done 3 times in 1 year.
General comments?
A head-turning stunner - this was the largest road-going Ferrari made - a real big-boy's toy!
Acceleration and performance was absolutely phenomenal, and the car was as steady as a rock at all times.
The car can be driven at low speeds around town very easily - just use the gearbox as you would any other car - it's very docile and behaves nicely.
The design was magnificent - mine was Rosso/Crema (red with cream leather interior) which was the traditional Ferrari colours and the most popular.
Rearward vision is restricted unless you have the model with 2 exterior mirrors, (the early ones only had one exterior mirror which also made it look somewhat strange).
The lack of power steering in all Ferrari Testarossas makes the car very difficult to park or manoeuvre at low speeds.
Do not buy one if this is going to be your only car - the noise level inside is very high (forget the radio- you won't be able to hear it - ever!), and the lack of any sort of luggage space will soon get to you.
Brilliant as a second (week-end) car. Even washing and polishing it is an absolute delight.
Having had the car for nearly 3 years I have now got Ferrari's out of my system. Given the choice I would now go for something less aggressive, quieter, and more refined - such as an Aston Martin or Bentley, but it was great fun at the time.
If you can afford it - go for a post-1998 model - they had significant improvements, and even better: go for a Ferrari 512 - these were much more refined and had uprated styling.
Search for New and Used Ferrari Testarossas available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | More than was hoped for - a glorious experience |
![]() ![]() | 1988 - Testarossa 5.0 flat 12 petrol 80's icon which is ruinous to run, but a sheer joy to own |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | V12 5.0 Litre Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 16000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 28000 miles |
| Previous car | Ferrari Testarossa |
| Date of Entry | 9th April, 2004 |



