Ferrari Testarossa Smashes Record

If anyone was in any doubt that the classic car scene was the most stable and developing of all automotive markets, the sale of a 1957 Testarossa this weekend for almost 2 million euros than the existing world record sale at auction.

Chassis no. 0714TR (pictured above) sold for €9,020,000 at the third annual Ferrari Leggenda e Passione event to set a new world record for the most expensive motor car ever to be sold at auction.

Returning to its Maranello birthplace for its auction debut, the €9,020,000 sale price represents €1,980,000 more than the previous auction world record which was set at the same sale last year.

“The historical significance of this car attracted a bidding war as collectors from around the world – both in the room and on the telephone – competed to secure one of the most alluring and iconic of all Ferrari racing cars,” said Max Girardo, Managing Director of RM Europe.

The beautiful and immediately recognizable Scaglietti-designed ‘pontoon-fender’ 250 TR was produced from 1957 to 1958 during which only 22 examples were constructed. The Ferrari 250 TRs entered 19 international championship races from 1958 through 1961 emerging with 10 victories and earning them legendary status among discerning collectors, as well as the honor of being one of the most desirable and competitive racing Ferraris ever built.

0714TR was extensively campaigned in its day with significant finishes at the world’s most important racing events including the 1000 km Buenos Aires in January 1958.

Surely now, the highest order of classic cars should be regarded as high art, rather than the playthings of the indulgent super-rich?