The mystery surrounding Michael Jordan’s legendary black Ferrari has finally been solved, more than 15 years after the car seemingly vanished from public view. The iconic vehicle, a 1992 Ferrari 512 TR, was once a symbol of Jordan’s dominance both on and off the basketball court. Its rediscovery has reignited interest in the car’s storied history and the journey it has taken since leaving Jordan’s ownership.
Jordan’s black Ferrari became synonymous with his larger-than-life persona during the 1990s. Delivered to his Highland Park, Illinois, home in February 1992, the sleek sports car was powered by a 4.9-liter V12 engine capable of producing 428 horsepower and reaching a top speed of 195 mph. With custom license plates reading “M-AIR-J,” the car was a perfect reflection of Jordan’s nickname, “Air Jordan,”.
The Ferrari was often seen at Chicago Bulls games, including a memorable appearance during the 1992 playoffs. Jordan’s arrival in the car added to his mystique, cementing its place in basketball lore.
In 1995, Jordan sold the Ferrari to businessman Chris Gardner, whose inspiring life story later became the basis for the film The Pursuit of Happyness. Gardner changed the license plate to “NOT MJ” and was occasionally spotted driving the car around Chicago. After being sold at auction in 2010, the car disappeared from public view, leaving fans and collectors wondering about its fate.
The Ferrari was recently tracked down by supercar specialists at Curated, a Miami-based dealership known for restoring rare vehicles. The car had been stored away by its last owner, who was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer. Despite its long absence, the Ferrari remains in pristine condition, a testament to its enduring appeal and craftsmanship.
“Finding this car felt like solving a mystery that’s haunted us for years,” said Curated co-founder John Temerian. “Everyone knew the plate. Everyone knew the legend. But no one knew where it went. Until now.”
The rediscovery of Jordan’s Ferrari has captivated fans and collectors alike, serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of one of basketball’s greatest players.
