TESTA-MENT
A 1957 Ferrari Testa Rossa becomes the world’s most expensive car sold at an auction.
While the world plods along depressed, there are people out there who seem untouched by any sort of recession. Conventional thinking would say that prices of classic cars should ideally reach rock bottom, since people don’t have that extra cash lying around to indulge in these lovely things. But last month, conventional thinking was turned around and sent packing. At the annual Leggenda E Passione auction held at Maranello in Italy and organised by RM Auctions in association with Sotheby’s, a 1957 Ferrari Testa Rossa went under the gavel for a staggering 9,020,000 euros. That’s a whopping Rs 16 crore plus! The pontoon-fender Ferrari broke last year’s record, which was held by the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, which in turn broke the Ferrari 250 GTO’s decades’ old record.
Obviously, the new owner of chassis no 0714TR (who remains anonymous) couldn’t pass up the opportunity to acquire the iconic Testa Rossa, as these magnificent machines don’t come up for sale in world markets too often. That’s because the Scaglietti-designed Ferrari is pretty rare as only about 22 were built between 1957 and 1958. Despite its short production life, the Testa Rossa was invincible. It was entered in 19 international championship races from 1958 to 1961 and won 10 of them. That immediately got it a legendary status that is undiminished even today. Powered by a 300 bhp 3000cc V12 with six Weber carburettors, this particular car has seen plenty of racing action in some of the top races of its era. No wonder, with its provenance and legendary status, this car was snapped up, breaking records. Besides that, it’s reportedly a great car to pilot as well.
Canada-based RM Auctions, along with Sotheby’s present this unique auction called Leggenda E Passione. It is unique because it’s completely dedicated to the Ferrari marque (of course Maseratis are also included). The event is held each May at Ferrari’s Maranello factory grounds and is endorsed by the sportscar manufacturer. So the next time you want to pick up something priceless wearing the prancing horse badge, you know where to go.