Following the 23-year absence of a front-engined, V12 powered, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer, a layout last seen on the 365 GTB/4 Daytona in 1973, Ferrari launched the all-new 550 Maranello in July 1996 at the Nürburgring circuit. The 550 moniker represented the total engine displacement in decaliters, with "Maranello" paying homage to the home of Ferrari. The stunning bodywork was styled by Pininfarina, and underneath the bonnet lay a 478-horsepower, 5.5-litre V12 mated to a six-speed manual transmission. With its good looks, eye-watering performance, and excellent handling, the 550 Maranello marked Ferrari’s triumphant return to its grand touring roots.

Four years after the launch of the 550 Maranello, Ferrari decided to honour long-term partner Pininfarina, marking the carrozzeria’s 70th anniversary with the unveiling of the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina at the 2000 Paris Motor Show. Sharing its drivetrain with the 550 Maranello, this limited-edition model was a true barchetta, with no permanent convertible top provided. A cloth soft-top was supplied by the factory, but only to be used below 110 km/h.

A mere 448 Barchettas were built with this particular example being one of just 42 cars produced in RHD for the U.K. market. It was supplied new on the 1st September, 2001 via Glenvarigill Ferrari in Edinburgh. Finished in the classic colour combination of Rosso Corsa over a Nero leather interior with a Black canvas hood and further specified with Rosso Coloured Contrast Stitching, Nero Coloured Carpets, Red Brake Callipers, Scuderia Shields, CD Changer, Black Leather Covers for Roll Bars, and Interior Fire Extinguisher.

The car sits today in wonderful condition and is showing just over 3,500 miles from new. It has been with its current owner for the past 14 years and despite its low mileage has been exceptionally well cared for and maintained regularly with 15 main dealer stamps and one specialist in its service booklet. Freshly serviced by HR Owen Ferrari South London the car is ready to be enjoyed and would be the perfect companion over the upcoming summer months.

It is accompanied by its factory soft top, tonneau cover, tool kit, tyre inflator, car cover, original helmets and storage bags, original handbooks, Ferrari torch, a large number of servicing invoices & MOT certificates and a pair of rare 550 Barchetta Schedoni caps. The vehicle has also been fitted with the German produced Michalak Design soft top, enabling the car to be driven at higher speeds than with the standard roof.

Very complete, low mileage, U.K. supplied 550 Barchettas like this are few and far between and this example with its strong service history and long-term ownership must be one of the finest in existence. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.