Niels van Roij Design Creates Testarossa Convertible, fulfilling Ferrari’s missed opportunity
The Ferrari Testarossa is regarded as a cultural icon of the 1980s. With a rear-mounted, 5-speed manual transmission, the GT has a standing weight distribution of 40% upfront and 60% at the rear.
However, it was only available as a coupe, and Ferrari wasn’t open to the idea of building a convertible version since the al-fresco experience wasn’t immensely popular at the time. Instead, according to the history books, Gianni Agnelli, the then-Chairman of Fiat and a fervent Ferrari fan, ordered the only convertible variant and received it in 1986.
Since then, coachbuilders across the globe have seen a business case for converting Ferrari Testarossas. One such company is Mega EV Luxury, while the latest conversion entity to do so is Niels van Roij Design, which is based in the Netherlands.
The company is in the process of converting a 2-door coupe version of the Testarossa and seamlessly integrating the Targa concept into the vehicle’s aesthetic. According to the firm, the conversion will be meticulously crafted and will combine classic aesthetics with contemporary engineering solutions.
That said, the final product promises a unique driving experience that captures the essence of the original while introducing a new dimension of open-air exhilaration.
“This project exemplifies our dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive design while paying homage to the rich history of this iconic sports car,” says Niels van Roij, founder of, well, Niels van Roij Design. “The Targa conversion not only enhances the driving experience – just listen to that V12 – but also celebrates the spirit of individuality and passion for bespoke automobiles.”
As a reminder, the Testarossa packs a 4.9-litre flat-12 naturally-aspirated engine that delivers 287kW and 489Nm, which, for the time, were respectable power. It hurtled from 0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds to a top speed of 289km/h.
According to Niels van Roij Design, the conversion of the donor car will be broadcast on the company’s social media channels, including X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
