Gianni Agnelli, the legendary chairman of Fiat and a symbol of Italian style, was renowned for his impeccable taste and penchant for commissioning one-off vehicles. Among his bespoke creations, the Ferrari Testarossa Spider, crafted in 1986, stands as a remarkable testament to his vision and Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Ferrari began work on this one-of-a-kind Spider on February 27, 1986, to mark Agnelli’s 20th anniversary as Fiat’s president. Completed just four months later, the car showcased Ferrari’s innovative engineering, transforming the iconic Testarossa into a convertible without compromising its mid-engine design. Housing a 5.0-liter 12-cylinder engine, the Spider featured a custom folding soft top supported by an electronically activated hoop – a subtle but significant engineering feat.
Adding to its allure was the groundbreaking Valeo transmission system. This dual-function system allowed drivers to operate the car as a traditional three-pedal manual or switch to an automatic mode, a thoughtful addition that accommodated Agnelli’s old leg injury. The Testarossa Spider also exuded elegance in its Argento (silver) paint, a nod to its owner’s refined style, complemented by nuanced blue exterior accents and a matching blue interior.
Agnelli’s influence extended even to the car’s registration. His bespoke plate, TO 00000G, exemplified his status, bypassing Italy’s ban on personalized plates. Despite its exclusivity, Agnelli later sold the Spider to a close family friend, whose children later placed it for auction at Artcurial’s 2016 Retromobile sale. The car found a new custodian in Ronald Stern, a respected Ferrari archivist and collector.
Stern’s acquisition was not just about owning a car but preserving a piece of Ferrari history. Ferrari Classiche certified the Spider, with Piero Ferrari himself delivering the documents to Stern’s London residence. Such personal connections underscore the car’s unparalleled significance in the Ferrari legacy.
A Unique Legacy
The Ferrari Testarossa Spider, crafted for Gianni Agnelli, remains a singular creation, blending advanced engineering with timeless style. Its rarity, provenance, and bespoke details continue to captivate enthusiasts, ensuring its place in automotive history.
Source: Ferrari
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
