1988 Ferrari Testarossa owned by Nigel Mansell heads to auction

A 1988 Ferrari Testarossa first owned by Formula 1 driver Nigel Mansell will head to auction later this year. 

The Testarossa marked a significant chapter in the British racing legend’s motorsport career, along with being a desirable classic Ferrari in its own right. 

It will be sold as part of RM Sotheby’s London auction, which takes place on Saturday 4 November at Marlborough House.

Enzo’s final appointment

By the late 1980s, Nigel Mansell had established himself as one of the leading drivers in Formula 1. Racing for Williams, he claimed second place in the World Drivers’ Championship in1986 and 1987. Both times, it was ultimately bad luck that denied Mansell the overall title.

A season of disappointment with Williams in 1988 saw Mansell make a bold decision, signing to race for Ferrari in 1989. He was the last Formula 1 driver to be personally chosen by company founder Enzo Ferrari, who died in August 1988.

Commemorating Mansell’s decision to join Ferrari, this Testarossa was presented to the Birmingham-born driver shortly before Christmas 1988.

Original property of The Lion

Mansell’s 1988 Testarossa is one of only 500 examples to have left the factory in right-hand-drive configuration. A combination of red paintwork and cream leather were chosen for the Ferrari.

Correspondence included with the car confirms it was delivered to Maranello Sales, the official Ferrari dealer based in Egham, Surrey.

A 390hp 4.9-litre flat-12 engine is rather less powerful than the 660hp V12 found in Mansell’s F1 company car. Nonetheless, the Testarossa was still capable of 180mph.

Mansell is believed to have owned the Ferrari until December 1993, when it subsequently passed into private ownership.

More F1 memorabilia

Today, the Testarossa retains its original matching chassis and engine numbers. Just over 10,000 miles have been recorded on the odometer, although this was previously replaced.

A metal plaque inside the door commemorates Il Leone’s ownership of the Testarossa, as does a fitted luggage set with Mansell’s initials.

The connection with the 1992 Formula 1 World Champion will undoubtedly drive up demand for this Ferrari, as will its low mileage. It comes with a pre-auction guide price of £150,000 to £200,000.

RM Sotheby’s will also host an extensive sale of Nigel Mansell’s personal possessions next month. Previously housed in his own museum, the Legacy Collection auction includes trophies, race-worn helmets and even a motorcycle.

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