Suspension technology in the 1980s was nowhere near as advanced as it is today. Thanks to the capabilities of modern computers and precision machining, engineers can now create shocks and springs of far higher quality than anyone could have imagined even two decades ago.
This is why KW’s new V3 coilover kit for the Ferrari Testarossa is so exciting. The KW V3 Classic coilover suspension kit marks the first time KW has offered such a kit for a classic Ferrari.
Until now, the German company only provided suspension kits for modern Ferrari models. If you owned a vintage Ferrari, you had to rely on KW’s custom build department to get a suspension upgrade.
The kit includes six dampers in total: two for the front and four for the rear. The Testarossa’s rear suspension features parallel springs and dampers on each rear upright, a setup similar to that of its closest rival, the Lamborghini Countach.
According to KW, the new kit not only enhances cornering speeds but also promises improvements in handling, straight-line stability, and ride comfort.
These performance improvements are achieved through KW’s multi-valve technology. Each damper consists of multiple valves that allow it to respond independently to both high- and low-speed impacts.
This setup significantly improves handling while broadening the damper’s operational range.
However, the benefits of better handling and ride comfort are only part of the upgrade. The standout feature is an optional add-on for the V3s: a built-in hydraulic lift system fitted to the front dampers.
With the push of a button, this system raises the Testarossa’s nose by 1.77 inches, automatically lowering once the car reaches 40 miles per hour.
This feature gives owners the freedom to drive their cars practically anywhere without worrying about clearance issues.
The coilover kit starts at €6,999 (around $7,750) before taxes and shipping, with the hydraulic lift system available for an additional €2,000 (about $2,200).
While not cheap, these prices are fairly reasonable for high-quality, expertly developed equipment designed specifically for a Ferrari.
Unfortunately, the V3 coilovers are currently available only for the Testarossa, so owners of the 512 TR or 512 M will have to wait for their turn.
