Meet Scott Chivers, the Unconventional Ferrari Enthusiast
When you think of Ferrari owners, images of pristine, red sports cars and impeccably dressed drivers often come to mind. But Scott Chivers is here to shake up that stereotype. He’s the kind of guy who buys the Ferraris that most people wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole. His latest acquisition? A rough-around-the-edges Testarossa he affectionately calls “Ratarossa.” This isn’t just a car; it’s a reflection of Scott’s unique philosophy on what it means to own a Ferrari.
What Makes Ratarossa So Special?
Scott’s Ratarossa is a far cry from the glossy, showroom-ready Ferraris you might expect. Picture this: a chop-top Testarossa, finished in a rough primer coat, with visible metal beams and flapping door cards. It’s the ultimate expression of what Scott believes a Ferrari can be—a car that’s not just for show but is meant to be driven and enjoyed. “I have red Ferraris, but it’s not my favorite color,” he says. “I don’t drive the cars to be seen.” His daily driver is a black 360 Challenge Stradale, which he’s owned for eight years and driven for 50,000 miles. He takes it to the shops and even to school with his kids, embracing the beauty of a well-used car.
The Backstory of Ratarossa
Scott’s journey with Ratarossa began when he was searching for an engine cover for another Testarossa he owned. While browsing online, he stumbled upon an ad for an unfinished Testarossa spider project in California. Intrigued, he reached out to the seller, who was looking for someone to restore the car rather than break it for parts. After a successful negotiation, Scott brought the car to the UK for just £16,000, including shipping and taxes.
The car’s history is as colorful as its current state. Originally owned by a kit car company that used it as a base for replicas, it had its roof cut off at some point, leading to its unique and unfinished look. Rather than restore it to factory condition, which would have cost a fortune, Scott decided to embrace its raw aesthetic. “For me, the rat look is where the car is perfect under the skin but looks like it’s been sat around, untouched and never restored,” he explains.
A Passion for Ferraris
Scott’s love for Ferraris isn’t just a passing phase; it’s a lifelong passion. It all started when he was a kid, inspired by his father’s dream of owning a 246 Dino and the iconic Testarossa featured in the Sega game Out Run. His first Ferrari was a 348 Spider, and since then, his collection has grown to include eight Ferraris, ranging from two 355s to three 308s, along with the Ratarossa.
Despite his impressive collection, Scott is refreshingly down-to-earth. He’s a 42-year-old IT professional who’s currently taking a break to reassess his future after a recent divorce. His home is modest, located in the Berkshire commuter belt, where his Ferraris often spill out onto the street due to limited driveway space. His collection is insured for £500,000, with an annual premium of £3,000, a testament to the value he’s built through savvy buying and restoration.
How Does He Afford His Passion?
Scott’s approach to Ferrari ownership is unique. He seeks out cars with uncertain histories, those in the wrong colors, or unfinished projects—essentially, the ones that others overlook. “I’m the guy who buys the Ferrari you shouldn’t,” he says. This strategy allows him to acquire these vehicles at relatively low prices and then invest time and effort into bringing them back to life. He’s become quite skilled with the tools, learning through experience and online resources, and he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.
His knack for finding deals has also led to profitable flips. For example, he once owned a pristine 430 Scuderia for just three months, selling it for a £25,000 profit, which he reinvested into acquiring more Ferraris.
What’s Next for Scott and Ratarossa?
Scott has big plans for Ratarossa, including refurbishing the steering and front suspension, giving the engine a thorough service, and tidying up the cabin. He’s committed to using genuine parts to ensure everything is done right. And as a final touch, he plans to detail the engine to make it look as good as new.
While Scott has a soft spot for all his Ferraris, he admits there’s one that would make him consider selling his entire collection: the legendary F40. “It would be the only one that would be driven every day,” he shares, hinting at the dream that still lingers in his mind.
Scott Chivers is a testament to the idea that owning a Ferrari doesn’t have to be about status or perfection. It can be about passion, creativity, and the joy of driving. His story reminds us that sometimes, the most interesting journeys come from embracing the unconventional.