Revving Up the Classics

Recent filming on the set of Miami Vice ’85 has caught attention, showcasing stars Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan in a white Ferrari Testarossa, prompting curiosity among fans of the original series. Notably, this choice of vehicle diverges from the timeline established in the 1980s television series.

The Iconic Vehicles of Miami Vice

In the first two seasons of the original Miami Vice, Don Johnson’s character, detective Sonny Crockett, was seen driving a black 1972 Ferrari Daytona Spyder convertible. This vehicle met its dramatic fate at the beginning of Season 3, symbolized by the infamous Crockett meme.

In the show’s narrative, Crockett’s vehicles were described as seized assets from criminal activities, provided to him by the Miami-Dade Police Department for his undercover operations. Following the destruction of the Daytona, Crockett was assigned a white 1986 Ferrari Testarossa by the department.

A Legal Twist in Automotive Selections

The decision to feature the Testarossa instead of the Daytona Spyder in Miami Vice ’85 is likely influenced by past legal disputes. During the filming of the original series, Ferrari North America refused to allow the use of a genuine Ferrari Daytona, leading the producers to construct a replica on a Corvette C3 chassis.

This action prompted Ferrari to initiate legal proceedings against the show, claiming trademark infringement and brand dilution. As part of the settlement, Ferrari received assurances regarding the protection of their trademarks and allowed the production to utilize two authentic Testarossas, albeit under the condition that the replica Daytona be destroyed on-screen, a dramatic conclusion to the legal saga.

Navigating Production Challenges

As Universal Studios embarks on producing Miami Vice ’85, it appears that the studio is strategically opting to avoid potential legal complications by sidelining the Daytona Spyder entirely. Production has recently been taking place across New York and New Jersey, with plans to move to Miami post-hurricane season.

The much-anticipated film is set for release in theaters, including IMAX formats, on May 19, 2028.