View source for Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

{{Short description|Racing sports car built by Ferrari from 1957 to 1961}}
{{distinguish|Ferrari Monza#500 TR{{!}}Ferrari 500 TR|Ferrari Testarossa}}
{{redirect|Ferrari TR|other topics|Ferrari TR (set index)}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa
| image = 1961 Ferrari 250 TR 61 Spyder Fantuzzi 34 left 2.jpg
| caption = 1961 250 TRI61 Spyder Fantuzzi, chassis 0792TR ([[Ralph Lauren]] collection)
| manufacturer = [[Ferrari]]<ref name=":0" /><ref name="derrick">{{Cite book | isbn = 978-0-7858-3051-1 | title = Million Dollar Classics: The World's Most Expensive Cars | last1 = Derrick | first1 = Martin | year = 2013 | publisher = Chartwell Books | last2 = Clay | first2 = Simon  }}</ref>
| aka = Ferrari 250 TR<br>Ferrari Testa Rossa
| production = 1957–1961<ref name=derrick/>
| model_years = 
| assembly = [[Maranello]], Italy<ref name=derrick/>
| designer = {{unbulleted list|[[Pinin Farina]]|[[Medardo Fantuzzi|Fantuzzi]]|[[Scaglietti]]|[[Carlo Chiti]]|[[Giotto Bizzarrini]]<ref name=":0" /><ref name=derrick/>}}
| class = 
| body_style = [[Roadster (automobile)|Spyder]]
| layout = [[Mid-engine design#FMR layout – Front Mid-engine / Rear-wheel drive|Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive]]<ref name=derrick/><ref name=":0" />
| platform = 
| related = [[Ferrari 250]]<br>[[Ferrari Monza#500 TR|Ferrari 500 TR]]<br>[[Ferrari Monza#500 TRC|Ferrari 500 TRC]]
| engine = 3.0 L (2953.21 cc)<ref name="Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa">{{Cite web|url=http://auto.ferrari.com/en_EN/sports-cars-models/past-models/250-testarossa/|title=Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa|work=Ferrari GT - en-EN|access-date=2015-12-14}}</ref> ''Tipo 128 [[Ferrari Colombo engine|Colombo]]'' [[V12 engine|V12]]<ref name=":0" /><ref name=derrick/>
| transmission = 4-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]<br />5-speed manual<ref name=":0" /><ref name=derrick/>
| wheelbase = {{convert|2350|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=derrick/>
| length = {{convert|3959|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=derrick/>
| width = {{convert|1523|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=derrick/>
| height = <!-- {{convert| |mm|in|1|abbr=on}} -->
| weight = 800 kg (dry)<ref name="Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa"/>
| predecessor = [[Ferrari Monza#500 TR|Ferrari 500 TR]]<ref name=":0" />
| successor = [[Ferrari P#250 P|Ferrari 250 P]]<ref name=":0" />
| sp = us
}}

The '''Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa''', or '''250 TR''', is a [[Sports car racing|sports racing car]] built by [[Ferrari]] from 1957 to 1961. It was introduced at the end of the 1957 racing season in response to rule changes that enforced a maximum [[engine displacement]] of 3 litres for the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] and [[World Sports Car Championship]] races. The 250 TR was closely related to earlier Ferrari sports cars, sharing many key components with other [[Ferrari 250|250]] models and the [[Ferrari Monza#500TR|500 TR]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Ferrari : sport racing and prototypes competition cars|last=Antoine|first=Prunet|date=1983|publisher=Norton|isbn=978-0393017991|location=New York|oclc=10382200}}</ref>

The 250 TR achieved many racing successes, with variations winning 10 World Sports Car Championship races including the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]] in 1958, 1960, and 1961, the [[12 Hours of Sebring]] in 1958, 1959 and 1961, the [[Targa Florio]] in 1958, the [[1000 km Buenos Aires|1000 Km Buenos Aires]] in 1958 and 1960 and the [[Pescara Circuit|Pescara]] 4 Hours in 1961. These results led to World Sports Car Championship constructor's titles for Ferrari in 1958, 1960 and 1961.

== Design and development ==
The 250 Testa Rossa was initially developed to compete in the [[1957 World Sportscar Championship]] racing season, in response to rule changes planned for the upcoming 1958 season that would enforce a maximum [[engine displacement]] of 3 litres. The objective was to improve on the existing 4-cylinder 2.0L [[Ferrari Monza#500 TR|500 TR]]/[[Ferrari Monza#500 TRC|500 TRC]] Testa Rossa by integrating the more powerful [[Ferrari Colombo engine|Colombo-designed 3.0L V12]] as used in [[Ferrari 250|250 GT]] series. Along with the new engine, Ferrari improved the existing Testa Rossa chassis and bodywork. As with other Ferrari racing cars, [[Enzo Ferrari]] demanded absolute reliability from all components, resulting in a somewhat conservative design approach that aimed for endurance racing success through durability rather than overall speed. [[Carlo Chiti]] was the chief designer during 250 TR development and his continual experimentation counterbalanced Mr. Ferrari's conservatism and led to the many revisions that kept the car competitive through 1962.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":7">{{Cite book |title=Ferrari Testa Rossa V-12|last=Finn|first=Joel E.|date=2003|publisher=Motorbooks International|isbn=0760317356|location=St. Paul, Minnesota|oclc=52876643}}</ref> Other Ferrari engineers had major contributions to the 250 TR, notably [[Giotto Bizzarrini]], who helped with aerodynamic improvements for the 1961 season,<ref name=":4" /> and Andrea Fraschetti, who helped develop the first 250 TR prototype before his 1957 death during a test drive.<ref name=":7" />

The 250 TR was raced and continually developed by [[Scuderia Ferrari]] from 1957 through 1962. In total, 33 250 TRs of all types were built between 1957 and 1962.<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/All.Ferraris/by-serial-number/ferrari-by-serial-number/model-index-55-59/model-summary/250-tr-index/index.html|title=250 TR - Index|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/All.Ferraris/by-serial-number/ferrari-by-serial-number/model-index-55-59/model-summary/250-tr58-index/index.html|title=250 TR58 - Index|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/All.Ferraris/by-serial-number/ferrari-by-serial-number/model-index-55-59/model-summary/250-tr59-index/index.html|title=250 TR59 - Index|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/All.Ferraris/by-serial-number/ferrari-by-serial-number/model-index-60-64/model-summary/250-tri-60-index/index.html|title=250 TRI/60 - Index|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/english/all.ferraris/summary/SN.250TRI61.htm|title=All.Ferraris - Cars by serial number . 250 TRI/61|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref> Included in this total are 19 "customer versions" of the 250 TR sold to independent racing teams, replacing the 500 TRC for this market. All customer cars had [[left hand drive]] Scaglietti "pontoon fender" bodies and live rear axles. They did not benefit from the continual improvements to Scuderia Ferrari cars, although many independent teams modified their 250 TRs or purchased ex-Scuderia Ferrari cars in order to stay competitive.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://auto.ferrari.com/en_EN/sports-cars-models/past-models/250-testarossa/|title=Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa (1958) - Ferrari.com|website=Ferrari GT - en-EN|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref name=":7" />

=== Engine and drivetrain ===
[[File:250 Testa Rossa 002.JPG|alt=250 Testa Rossa Tipo 128 V-12 Engine|thumb|250 Testa Rossa Tipo 128 V-12 Engine]]
The 250 Testa Rossa engine was based on [[Ferrari Colombo engine|Colombo-designed 3.0L V12]] used in 250 GT road and racing cars. [[Carlo Chiti]] and other Ferrari engineers made several modifications to increase the performance of this already proven engine. The starting point was a 1953-style cylinder block with an overall capacity of 2953 cc, a 73&nbsp;mm [[Bore (engine)|bore]] and 58.8&nbsp;mm [[Stroke (engine)|stroke]]. Six two-barrel [[Weber carburetor|Weber 38 DCN carburetors]] fed the engine, increased from the 3 carburetors typical for 250 GT engines. The cylinder heads used [[Single overhead camshaft|single overhead cams]], 2 [[Poppet valve#Internal combustion engine|valves]] per cylinder and helical double-coil valve springs (a first for Ferrari).<ref name=":2">{{Cite book|title=Ferrari: The Sports and Gran Turismo Cars|last=Fitzgerald|first=Warren W.|last2=Merritt|first2=Richard F.|last3=Thompson|first3=Jonathan|date=1976|publisher=CBS Publications|isbn=978-0878800193|edition=3rd|oclc=810446}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite book|title=Ferrari|author=Tanner, Hans|date=1984|publisher=Haynes|others=Nye, Doug.|isbn=978-0854293506|edition=6th|location=Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset|oclc=12418956}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite journal|date=February 1992|title=250 Testa Rossa|journal=Cavallino|volume=67|pages=20–27}}</ref> 

The helical valve springs were much smaller than previously used [[torsion spring]]s, allowing the cylinder heads to be strengthened and secured with 24 [[Threaded rod|studs]] rather than 18 in previous 250 engines. This increased the overall reliability of the engine by improving [[head gasket]] sealing. One spark plug was used per cylinder and the position was changed from earlier 250 designs, now located outside the engine vee between exhaust ports. This allowed for a better spark position and more efficient combustion. Piston connecting rods were now [[Machining|machined]] from [[steel billet]], rather than [[Forging|forged]], which resulted in more stress-resistance at higher [[Revolutions per minute|RPM]].<ref name=":0" /> The cam covers were painted bright red, the source of the name "Testa Rossa" (literally, "Red Head"). This tradition and name originated with the 500 TR.<ref name=":1" />

The resulting engine was designated Tipo 128 and generated {{Convert|300|hp|kW|abbr=on}} at 7000 rpm. The power/[[Engine displacement|displacement]] ratio of 100&nbsp;hp/litre was a particular point of pride for Ferrari, as it demonstrated how Ferrari's engineering prowess could create a competitive engine even under rules restricting displacement. The engineering team improved a well understood, proven design by incorporating new technology and strengthening known weak points. They created an exceptionally durable engine, a massive benefit in [[Endurance racing (motorsport)|endurance racing]]. Other Ferrari racing cars ([[Ferrari 250 GTO|250 GTO]], [[Ferrari P#250 P|250 P]]) achieved racing success with the same basic engine well into the 1960s, years after the 250 TR chassis was obsolete.

1957–1958 250 TRs used a 4-speed [[Manual transmission#Synchromesh|transmission]], followed by a 5-speed transmission in 1959. Customer cars were equipped with a 250 GT-style transmission positioned directly behind the engine, while Scuderia Ferrari team cars sometimes used rear-mounted [[transaxle]]s for better weight distribution.<ref name=":1" />
[[File:Ferrari 250 TR58 team car.jpg|thumb|1957 - 1958 factory team car. Orange arrow: shifter shaft to transaxle. Blue arrow: Leaf spring for de Dion suspension.]]

=== Chassis, brakes and suspension ===
The 250 Testa Rossa used a tubular steel spaceframe chassis, similar to that used in the 500 TR. Compared to the 500 TR, the wheelbase was extended by 10&nbsp;cm to 2.35 meters. The chassis gained a reputation for durability, as it was designed according to Enzo Ferrari's desire for absolute reliability even at the expense of excess weight.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":7" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" />

All 250 TRs used [[Independent suspension|independent front suspension]] with [[coil spring]]s. All customer cars had [[Beam axle|live rear axles]].<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":1" /> Pre-1960 factory team cars used either live or [[De Dion tube|de Dion rear axles]]<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":1" /> while the 1960 250 TRI60 and 1961 250 TRI61 used independent rear suspension.<ref name=":0" />

1957 and 1958 250 TRs were equipped with [[drum brake]]s on all four wheels. Enzo Ferrari insisted on the use of drum brakes in the early 250 TRs as he believed they were more reliable and predictable in how they faded compared to more powerful but relatively new [[disc brake]]s. Drum brakes were unpopular with drivers as they required tremendous physical exertion to operate, due to lack of servo assist and the extremely hard, long-lasting pads used for endurance races. Despite the extensive air cooling used in the 1958 "pontoon fender"-bodied cars, drum brakes were still subject to [[Brake fade|heat-induced fade]].<ref name=":7" /> They were finally replaced with [[Dunlop (brands)|Dunlop]] [[disc brake]]s in all Scuderia Ferrari cars for the 1959 race season.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal|last=Mallepelle|first=Paolo|date=December 1987|title=1959 250 TR59, No. 0766 TR|journal=Cavallino|volume=42|pages=25–31}}</ref>

=== Bodywork and interior ===
All 250 TRs had 2-seater [[Roadster (automobile)|spider]] bodies, as did the earlier 4-cylinder Testa Rossas. At the time, this was considered the lightest and most aerodynamic configuration for a racing sports car.

The first 250 Testa Rossa prototype (chassis number 0666TR) debuted at the 1957 [[6 Hours of Nürburgring|Nürburgring 1000km]]. This hastily prepared prototype was based on a [[Ferrari 290 MM|290 MM]] chassis and had conventional bodywork by [[Carrozzeria Scaglietti|Scaglietti]] very similar to that of the 4-cylinder 500 TR, except for a large hood bulge.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sportscardigest.com/ferrari-250-testa-rossa-car-profile/|title=Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa - History, Photos, Profile|date=2012-12-31|work=Sports Car Digest - The Sports, Racing and Vintage Car Journal|access-date=2018-09-11|language=en-US}}</ref> 
[[File:1958 Ferrari 250 TR 0736TR Front.jpg|thumb|1958 250 TR with "pontoon fender" Scaglietti body. The channels for front brake cooling are clearly visible]]
[[File:1958 Ferrari 250 TR 0736TR Interior.jpg|alt=Interior of 1958 250 TR|thumb|Interior of 1958 250 TR.]]
For the 1958 250 TR, new bodywork was developed in collaboration between Scaglietti and [[Carlo Chiti|Chiti]] with several innovations on the previous 4-cylinder Testa Rossa body. Instead of the conventional fully enclosed front end, the new body had a distinctive cut-away nose reminiscent of a Formula 1 car. The protuberant central air intake was now flanked by deep channels and the headlights were set into [[nacelle]]- or [[Pontoon (boat)|pontoon]]-like fenders that enveloped each front wheel. The purpose of this design was to funnel cooling air inwards towards the [[Drum brake|brake drums]], mitigating the persistent problem of [[Brake fade|heat-related fade]]. The lower body was recessed inwards behind the front wheels in order to vent heat from the brakes and exhaust. The front hood was topped with a large bulge and air intake (forward facing on some cars, reverse facing on others) to provide clearance for the vertically oriented carburetors. The rear bodywork was more conventional, including a tapered fairing behind the driver's head and two small brake lights set into vertical fins.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":6" />

The distinctive cutaway-nose bodywork of the 1958 cars became the most iconic 250 TR style and was used on all cars sold new to private customers. This resulted in the colloquial name for early Scaglietti-bodied 250 TRs: "pontoon fender." Despite their radical appearance, racing and test runs soon showed that this design generated a significant amount of [[Drag (physics)#Aerodynamics|aerodynamic drag]] and high speed instability. This was especially noticeable when competing on high speed courses such as the [[Circuit de la Sarthe]] against more aerodynamic cars such as the [[Maserati Tipo 61]] and [[Jaguar D-Type]]. As a result, the Scaglietti bodywork was soon revised and a wide variety of alternative styles were created from 1958 through 1961. Even during 1958, some Scuderia Ferrari cars were equipped with more conventional bodies in the style of the 1957 prototype.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":7" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":6" />

The 250 TR's open interior was simple and utilitarian, lacking the luxury trimmings found in Ferrari [[Grand tourer|GT cars]]. The instrumentation and controls were completely focused around the driver. Like other 1950s and 1960s Ferrari sports cars, 250 TRs were equipped with an open gated shifter and a [[Nardi (carmaker)|Nardi]] wooden steering wheel.

=== Variants and further development ===
The 250 TR was subject to continual iteration and refinement from 1957 to 1961, resulting in numerous differences between individual cars that may or may not coincide with different chassis production dates. As was common with Ferrari racing cars of the 1950s and 1960s, 250 TRs were frequently modified and updated by the Ferrari factory and/or private owners. Bodywork was often changed to improve performance or to repair crash damage. Ferrari historians track these changes with a numbering suffix based on year of production (such as 250 TR61 for a 1961-style car) as well as descriptors such as "Spider Fantuzzi" to denote cars with bodies fabricated by Fantuzzi. Despite this [[Historiography|historiographical]] systematization, the low-production, hand-built nature of these cars and their use and modification in period mean that differences are most thoroughly explained in the context of an individual chassis' history.

==== 1959: TR59 ====
For the 1959 season, the 250 TR body design was lightly revised by [[Pinin Farina]], with fabrication of the bodies handled by [[Medardo Fantuzzi|Fantuzzi]]. The cutaway nose with pontoon fenders was gone, replaced by a more aerodynamic design that still incorporated many ventilation grilles and air inlets.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":3" />

The 1959 250 TR was the first Ferrari sports car to use disc brakes (manufactured by Dunlop). Disc brakes are much less susceptible to heat build-up and fade than drum brakes, so the extra air cooling provided by the 1958 Scaglietti body was no longer necessary.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":3" />

A 5-speed transmission mounted directly behind the engine was also introduced in 1959.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" />

==== 1960: TR60 and TRI60 ====
[[File:Ferrari 250 TR Fantuzzi.jpg|alt=1959 250 TR59/60 Spider Fantuzzi|thumb|1959 250 TR59/60 Spider Fantuzzi, showing the tall windshield used on 1960 cars]]
[[Dry sump]] lubrication systems became standard equipment for all 250 TRs in 1960. This allowed the engine to sit lower in the chassis, lowering the car's [[center of mass]] for improved handling and enabling a lower, more aerodynamic front profile.<ref name=":2" />

Rear independent suspension was introduced to the 250 TR in 1960. The car equipped with independent suspension was designated the 250 TRI60 (chassis 0780TR) and throughout the season raced alongside the 250 TR60 equipped with a conventional [[De Dion tube|de Dion rear axle]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" />

The body of the 250 TR again changed for the 1960 season, primarily due to new regulations requiring a windshield with a vertical height of 25&nbsp;cm. The new, larger windshield was immediately disliked by drivers, as it was difficult to see over, the [[Poly(methyl methacrylate)|plexiglass]] material could not be effectively cleared by windshield wipers, and the much larger surface area increased drag.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /> The excess drag resulted in a top speed of {{Convert|161|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} down the [[Mulsanne Straight]] at Le Mans. In comparison, during the same race [[Masten Gregory]]'s [[Maserati Tipo 61]] reached approximately {{Convert|175|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":4">{{Cite journal|last=Frère|first=Paul|date=April 1991|title=A Mystery Solved: How the Testa Rossa Entered the Aerodynamic Era|journal=Cavallino|volume=62|pages=16–17}}</ref>

1959 cars that were updated to 1960 specification (minus independent rear suspension) are often designated as 250 TR59/60.<ref name=":3" />

==== 1961: TRI61 ====
[[File:Ferrari 250 TR 61 Spyder Fantuzzi 1961.jpg|alt=1961 250 TR61 Spider Fantuzzi|thumb|1961 250 TRI61 Spider Fantuzzi]]
All 1961 250 Testa Rossas were designated 250 TRI61 as independent rear suspension was now standard.<ref name=":0" />

Due to high drag and visibility problems with the TR60 body style, Ferrari engineers including [[Giotto Bizzarrini]] and Carlo Chiti were tasked with completely re-designing the 250 TR bodywork for the 1961 racing season. As a result, the new Fantuzzi-built TRI61 body incorporated a number of dramatic changes, informed by new aerodynamic theories and wind-tunnel testing. The windshield now had a more gradual slope and wrapped around both sides of the cockpit to meet the rear bodywork. Instead of the rounded tail with fairing for the driver's head, the TRI61 had a very high rear body that met the trailing edge of the side windows and tapered to a truncated, slightly concave [[Kammback|Kamm tail]].<ref name=":4" /> This bodystyle was called an "open coupe" and was very similar to bodies used on [[Mid-engine design|mid-engined]] Ferrari sports racers such as the 1961 [[Ferrari 246 SP|246 SP]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://auto.ferrari.com/en_EN/sports-cars-models/past-models/246-sp/|title=Ferrari 246 SP (1961) - Ferrari.com|website=Ferrari GT - en-EN|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

The front air inlet was now split into two openings, introducing the distinctive "sharknose" or "nostril" style that was also used on other Ferrari sports racing cars such as the 246 SP and the [[Ferrari 156 F1|156]] Formula 1 car.<ref name=":0" /> This front end styling had first appeared on a trio of [[Maserati 250F]]s that Fantuzzi re-bodied in 1958 for racer Ross Jensen and team owner Temple Buell<ref name=":02">{{Cite book|title=Ferrari Dino SPs : Maranello's first rear-engined sports prototypes.|last=Godfrey, John.|date=1990|publisher=Stephens|isbn=1-85260-359-3|oclc=21164219}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Giddings|first=Peter|date=10 December 1988|title=FANTUZZI'S NOSE AND THE MASERATI CONNECTION|url=http://petergiddings.com/Peter_articles/Fantuzzi_Nose.html|journal=Ferrari Market Letter|volume=13|issue=25}}</ref> (son of the [[Temple Hoyne Buell|architect with the same name]]). Fantuzzi's suggestion that the twin intakes would improve air penetration was confirmed by Chiti's wind tunnel testing, leading to the adoption of this style throughout Ferrari's 1961 racing cars.<ref name=":02" />

During testing of the 250 TRI61, a full-width angled "deflector" panel was installed along the top edge of the rear bodywork. This was initially installed to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the cockpit under deceleration. After testing the prototype with the deflector, driver [[Richie Ginther]] commented that high-speed stability seemed to improve with only a slight reduction in top speed, leading to the inclusion of this feature on all 1961 bodies. The Ferrari engineers had in effect created a rear [[Spoiler (car)|spoiler]], well before engineers understood the aerodynamic theory behind them and integrated them into many car designs.<ref name=":0"/>

==== 1962: 330 TRI/LM ====
{{Main|Ferrari 330 TRI/LM}}
[[File:Ferrari 330 TR.jpg|alt=1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM|thumb|1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM]]
For the 1962 season, Ferrari developed the final iteration of the front-engined Testa Rossa, the 330 TRI/LM (LM standing for Le Mans). The biggest change from the 250 TR was a Tipo 163 [[Ferrari Colombo engine#330|4.0 Litre Colombo V12]] developed from the engine of the [[Ferrari 400 Superamerica|400 Superamerica]], further improved with Testa Rossa cylinder heads and other modifications seen on 250 TR engines. This engine produced {{Convert|390|hp|kW|abbr=on}} at 7500 rpm, significantly more power than the 250-series 3.0L unit. This engine design would be used again in the 1964 [[Ferrari P#275 P and 330 P|330 P]].

The single 330 TRI/LM (chassis number 0808) was built from a damaged 250 TRI60 (chassis 0780TR). The original chassis was lengthened and a TRI61-style spider body by Fantuzzi was fitted. At the [[1962 24 Hours of Le Mans]], this car was driven by [[Olivier Gendebien]] and [[Phil Hill]] and became the last front-engine car to win an overall victory at Le Mans.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/english/All.Ferraris/Detail/0808.330TRI.htm|title=330 TRI LM s/n 0808|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://auto.ferrari.com/en_EN/sports-cars-models/past-models/330-tr/|title=Ferrari 330 TR (1962) - Ferrari.com|website=Ferrari GT - en-EN|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-11}}</ref>

== Racing history ==
[[File:1963-05-19 Ferrari 250 TRI von Abate u. Maglioli, Nürburgring.jpg|alt=The 250TRI61 of Abate/Maglioli, driving for Scuderia Serenissima at the 1963 Nürburgring 1000km.|thumb|The 250 TRI61 of [[Carlo Maria Abate|Abate]]/[[Umberto Maglioli|Maglioli]], driving for [[Scuderia Serenissima]] at the 1963 [[6 Hours of Nürburgring|Nürburgring 1000km]].]]

[[File:Auto race, Leopoldville, 1958 (29389291161).jpg|left|thumb|250 TR (chassis 0736) at the 1958 GP [[Kinshasa|Léopoldville]], with [[Paul Frère]] driving]]The 250 Testa Rossa was raced successfully throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s. Independent teams raced the 250 TR alongside Scuderia Ferrari cars from 1958 on, although the most developed versions of the car were restricted to factory-sanctioned teams only.<ref name=":6" />

250 TRs were extremely competitive during this time, winning 10 [[World Sportscar Championship]] races including the 1958, 1960, and 1961 [[24 Hours of Le Mans]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1958-le-mans-24-hours|title=1958 Le Mans 24 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-13|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1960-le-mans-24-hours|title=1960 Le Mans 24 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-13|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1961-le-mans-24-hours|title=1961 Le Mans 24 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-13|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> the 1958, 1959 and 1961 [[12 Hours of Sebring]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1958-sebring-12-hours|title=1958 Sebring 12 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1959-sebring-12-hours|title=1959 Sebring 12 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1961-sebring-12-hours|title=1961 Sebring 12 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> the [[1958 Targa Florio]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1958-targa-florio|title=1958 Targa Florio {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> the 1958 and 1960 [[1000 km Buenos Aires]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1958-buenos-aires-1000kms|title=1958 Buenos Aires 1000Kms {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1960-buenos-aires-1000kms|title=1960 Buenos Aires 1000Kms {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> and the 1961 4 hours of [[Pescara Circuit|Pescara]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1961-pescara-4-hours|title=1961 Pescara 4 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> Notable drivers included [[Phil Hill]], [[Olivier Gendebien]], [[Luigi Musso]], [[Peter Collins (racing driver)|Peter Collins]], [[Dan Gurney]], [[Wolfgang von Trips]] and [[Mike Hawthorn]], among them.

The excellent results of 250 TRs and Scuderia Ferrari's skilled drivers earned Ferrari the 1958, 1960 and 1961 Constructor's World Sportscar Championship titles.<ref name=":6" />

The [[Aston Martin DBR1]] and the [[Porsche 718]] were the 250 TR's closest competitors during this time. Stirling Moss drove a DBR1 to win first place against strong Ferrari opposition at the [[1958 1000 km Nürburgring|1958 1000km Nürburgring]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1958-nurburgring-1000kms|title=1958 Nurburgring 1000Kms {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref> and DBR1s would go on to win over 250 TRs at the 1959 Le Mans, Nürburgring, and Tourist Trophy races, depriving Ferrari of the Constructor's World Championship in 1959.<ref name=":6" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1959-le-mans-24-hours|title=1959 Le Mans 24 Hours {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-13|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1959-tourist-trophy|title=1959 Tourist Trophy {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/races/1959-nurburgring-1000kms|title=1959 Nurburgring 1000Kms {{!}} Motor Sport Magazine Database|date=2017-06-12|work=Motor Sport Magazine|access-date=2018-09-13|language=en}}</ref>

== Influence ==
The Tipo 128 [[Ferrari Colombo engine|Colombo-designed 3.0L V12]] developed for the 250 Testa Rossa would continue to be used in Ferrari sports racing cars through the early 1960s. The [[Ferrari 250 GTO|250 GTO]], [[Ferrari P#250 P|250 P]] and [[Ferrari 250 LM|250 LM]] achieved racing success with this engine.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":6" />

Experimentation on 250 TR body styles from 1957 through 1962 provided Ferrari engineers with valuable experience in developing both low-drag and stability-promoting aerodynamic bodywork. The 250 GTO, [[Ferrari SP|SP sports racers]], and [[Ferrari P#250 P|250/275/330 P]] were the immediate beneficiaries of this knowledge.

Ferrari named the [[Ferrari Testarossa|1984-1991 Testarossa]] road car as a homage to the 500 TR and 250 TR. In contrast to the front-engine V12-powered 250 TR, the Testarossa is a [[mid-engine design]] using a [[flat-12 engine]] and was designed as a road-going [[sports car]], rather than a racer.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://auto.ferrari.com/en_EN/sports-cars-models/past-models/testarossa/|title=GT Testarossa: Pininfarina's design broke with tradition, in 1984|website=Ferrari GT - en-EN|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

== Collectibility ==

The 250 Testa Rossa is one of the most valuable vintage Ferraris (and therefore one of the most valuable cars of any type), due to their low production (33 total including all 250 TR variants), racing success and historical influence. The [[Ferrari 250 GTO|250 GTO]] is generally considered to have a greater monetary value, although true market values are difficult to determine due to how seldom either model is sold at auction. 250 TRs are often seen at prestigious auto shows such as the [[Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cavallino.com/single-post/2018/09/08/Rare-Ferraris-Compete-at-Important-Pebble-Beach-Concours|title=Rare Ferraris Compete at Important Pebble Beach Concours|date=2018-09-08|website=Cavallino Magazine|language=en|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.automobilemag.com/news/18-favorite-ferraris-pebble-beach/|title=18 Favorite Ferraris from the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance|last=Lamm|first=John|date=2017-08-22|work=Automobile Magazine|access-date=2018-09-10|language=en-US}}</ref> and the [[Goodwood Festival of Speed]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motor-shows-goodwood-festival-speed/goodwood-2017-best-ferrari|title=Goodwood 2017: best of Ferrari|last=Atwood|first=James|date=2017-07-30|website=Autocar.co.uk|language=en|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

A 1957 250 TR (chassis 0714TR) sold for €9,020,000 at RM Sotheby's 2009 [[Maranello]] auction.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sportscardigest.com/ferrari-250-testa-rossa-breaks-all-time-auction-record/|title=Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Breaks All-Time Auction Record|date=2009-05-17|work=Sports Car Digest - The Sports, Racing and Vintage Car Journal|access-date=2018-09-10|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/english/All.Ferraris/Detail/0714TR.250TR.htm|title=250 TR s/n 0714TR|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref> The 1957 250 TR prototype (chassis 0666TR) sold for $16.39 million at the 2011 [[Gooding & Company|Gooding & Co]] [[Pebble Beach, California|Pebble Beach]] auction.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.goodingco.com/vehicle/1957-ferrari-250-testa-rossa/|title=1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa|website=Gooding & Company|language=en|access-date=2018-09-10|archive-date=2020-09-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929233351/https://www.goodingco.com/vehicle/1957-ferrari-250-testa-rossa/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/22/1957-ferrari-250-tr-prototype-sells-for-record-16-39-million-at/|title=1957 Ferrari 250 TR Prototype sells for record $16.39 million at Gooding's Pebble Beach auction|last=Phillips|first=Drew|date=2018-08-22|work=Autoblog|access-date=2018-09-10|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/english/All.Ferraris/Detail/0666.250TR.htm|title=250 TR s/n 0666|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref> 250 TR chassis 0704 reportedly sold privately in 2014 for $39.8 million.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hemmings.com/blog/2014/01/30/unrestored-1957-ferrari-testa-rossa-reportedly-sells-for-39-8-million/|title=Unrestored 1957 Ferrari Testa Rossa Reportedly Sells for $39.8 million|last=Ernst|first=Kurt|date=2014-01-30|website=www.hemmings.com|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

Fashion designer [[Ralph Lauren]]'s extensive auto collection contains two 250 TRs, a 1958 Scaglietti-bodied car (chassis 0734TR) and a 1961 250 TR/61 Spider Fantuzzi (chassis 0792TR).<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-shows/news/a17199/1958-ferrari-250-testa-rossa/|title=1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa|last=Lamm|first=John|date=2011-04-29|work=Road & Track|access-date=2018-09-10|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barchetta.cc/english/All.Ferraris/Detail/0792TR.250TRI61.htm|title=250 TRI/61 s/n 0792TR|website=www.barchetta.cc|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

The value, performance and historical significance ascribed to the 250 TR have motivated many individuals and companies to create reproduction automobiles. Sold as a "replica", "recreation" or "reproduction", these can vary widely in historical accuracy and sophistication, sometimes using Ferrari engines and chassis or simply attempting to replicate the body style of the original with unrelated mechanical underpinnings.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1099173_ferrari-250-tr-recreation-is-better-than-the-real-thing|title=Ferrari 250 TR Recreation Is Better Than The Real Thing|work=Motor Authority|access-date=2018-09-10|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24125/lot/230/|title=Bonhams : 1962 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Re-creation Chassis no. 4257|website=www.bonhams.com|language=en-gb|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref> Some of these reproductions have been unscrupulously represented as original, factory-built 250 TRs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ferraris-online.com/pages/article.php?reqart=SCM_200601_SS|title=Fake Ferraris for Fun and Profit|last=Sheehan|first=Michael|date=January 2006|website=www.ferraris-online.com|language=en-us|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

As 250 TR values rose, some extremely damaged or destroyed 250 TRs were reconstructed using varying amounts of newly fabricated or non-original components. In at least one instance, this has resulted in a case of disputed identity, whereby multiple reconstructed or reproduced cars lay claim to a particular factory chassis number.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://ferraris-online.com/pages/article.php?reqart=SCM_200202_SS|title=Clone Wars|last=Sheehan|first=Michael|date=February 2002|website=ferraris-online.com|language=en-us|access-date=2018-09-10}}</ref>

== Further reading ==

* {{Cite book|title=Ferrari Testa Rossa V-12|last=Finn|first=Joel E.|publisher=Motorbooks International|year=2003|isbn=0760317356|location=St. Paul, Minnesota}} A comprehensive history of the 250 Testa Rossa, including the design and development process, racing results, and histories of individual chassis

==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=25em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa}}
*[https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/history/garage/1957/250-testa-rossa Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa: Ferrari History]

{{Early Ferrari vehicles}}
{{Ferrari}}
{{Scuderia Ferrari}}

[[Category:Ferrari vehicles|TR]]
[[Category:Sports racing cars]]
[[Category:24 Hours of Le Mans race cars]]
[[Category:Le Mans winning cars]]
[[Category:Targa Florio|Winner]]