I am not going to argue that this is one beautiful, rare and spectacular car. However, as someone that frequents historic racing events, I have to say that TR's of this variety are fairly commonplace. It is my understanding that a common 250TR of this variety can be had in the $250k to $1mil range. $12mil seems like a hefty premium for a bit of history. This one may be different in history, but if I were to purchase a $12 mil Ferrari, it would be probably be a Cali spider. It was rumored that if an Auto Union went up for auction, it could command a similar price (around $12mil) I would be much more willing to pay that for something on that level of rarity.

Either way, its always fun to speculate about what you would do with money you do not have

 

But only 22 were made in 1957 and 2 of those are in Ralph's museum. That only leaves 20 total possible examples. So they can't show up that frequently.

I think that it is the 1957 version - the first year it was produced and the start of the Testarossa's big racing success - that makes this one so special and $$$.

Also, that one may have actually been driven by Phil Hill.

 

^^^^^
I'm just saying that I have seen more than a few Ferrari's with that basic body shape running at historic races. I'm also saying that they are rare, spectacular and beautiful, and I typically spend quite a bit of time admiring them when at these events. $12 mil seems like way too much for it, that's all. There are two similar cars entered at the Wine Country Classic at Infineon in a few weeks;

1958 Ferrari 250 TR 2984cc David Love
1957 Ferrari 625 TRC 3000cc Michael Callaham

 

Very interesting and good post BigE! See, this is what you guys are missing in the Pit-Stop.

The 1957 250 Testarossa is often mistaken for the 1956-57 500 TRC which is not nearly as rare or historical. Also, the 1958 250 Testarossa doesn't have as much provanance as the 1957.

I know it seems like splitting hairs. But these are the differences that make a $1 m car a $10 m+ car.

Crazy world!!

 

Speaking of the Wine Country Classic, its only a few weeks away. Over 400 cars entered this year. Alex/Alzilla and his dad are coming out on Sunday. A few other TS'ers have been rumored to be joining in that day as well. Its always a great event with great weather and moderate crowds compared the the Monterey Historics, so photo ops with the cars is very easy.

I am going to post an invite in the next few days. How about making a road trip Dana?

 

it will only increase in value over time, as long as nothing happens to the car.

 

What a great trip that would be! Wish I could make it.

 

OMG!!!! I am so THERE!!!

 

Dana, come on man! You HAVE to come now! Bring your son and it'll be an awesome time!

 

I'd have let it go for $12 million. Beautiful car regardless.