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• The Ferrari 512RT is one of only 80 cars imported to the UK.
• It's the first time this unique vehicle will be sold in South Africa.
• The 512TR is powered by a 4.9-litre flat-12 engine delivering 315kW.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
The used car market has exploded during the past few months since the national lockdown was implemented in late March, and saw prices drop significantly as the economy began to suffer.
And while we're still in a volatile situation regarding the pandemic, and our financial crisis, prices have started increasing as of late, a positive indication of consumer confidence.
Ferrari 512TR (Gumtree)
Never sold in SA
It's also presented the perfect opportunity to purchase that sportier derivative you previously would not have considered as prices became more affordable. But more than anything else, the used car market has become a trove of treasures for those looking for an absolute classic.
One such vehicle is the Ferrari 512RT. What makes it so unique is the fact that this vehicle has never been sold in South Africa before.
According to the folk over at Gumtree, the rare UK specified right-hand-drive Ferrari 512TR is the 57th of 80 cars imported new into the UK.
The used-car sales website also says the particular model is one of only thirty-eight fitted with an ABS braking upgrade and was exported to South Africa in 2009 by a private collector.
There are extremely limited numbers of this vehicle around the world and even fewer that ever go on sale. Cars like this can mostly be found in the private collections or garages of celebrities and racing drivers. For example, Enzo Ferrari gifted one to the actor Don Johnson, as he was a huge Miami Vice fan.
Gumtree Auto's Jeff Osborne says: "The 512TR is powered by a 4.9-litre flat-12 engine, rated at 315kW at 6750rpm, with a quoted top speed limited to 320km/h.
The company says the 18-inch Speedline wheels proudly boast the yellow prancing horse centre caps and the interior is trimmed in cream leather with red carpets. The car is for sale with its original books and Ferrari tool kit.
Osborne says while most cars do not appreciate in value, rare classics can be an excellent investment: "Most collectors buy these cars for the sheer joy of ownership, but it can pay large dividends. It won't be easy to find the right buyer, and you can't guarantee a quick sale, but for if you have a rare gem and maintain it well, you could turn a significant profit."
Ferrari 512TR (Gumtree)
Used Ferrari checklist
He says if you do get your hands on a classic Ferrari, there are just a few boxes to tick. Here's Osborne's checklist:
1. Check that all of the instruments work. If infrequently used, the fuel metering heads will gum up and lead to starting problems, but you are unlikely to encounter any electrical issues.
2. Many owners upgrade the exhaust, so make sure the engine still sounds like a Ferrari - it's part of the appeal!
3. Wear and tear on the bolsters, and seat mechanisms need to be examined as they can be expensive to repair.
4. Tyres are similarly quite tricky to find so make sure they are in good condition.
Ferrari 512TR (Gumtree)
For a select few
Yes, we know it has a ridiculously high price-tag, and only a select few in the country could consider splurging that amount of money in such trying times.
However, we need to remember, there is still money in the country, considering Ferrari itself sold 15 brand new cars during June, according to the Naamsa monthly sale figures, and over 100 Porsches.
But, according to Osborne, there is one issue you don't have to worry about: "The engine is allegedly bomb-proof! You do get what you pay for, and with the price tag of a Ferrari, quality is guaranteed.
"In general, this was a poster car for its era and is climbing in value. It's a collectors' dream."
The 512TR is up for sale for R5.3million and be viewed in the Western Cape.
Compiled by Janine Van der Post
