Having re-established the front-engine layout with the sensational 456, Ferrari launched an even more spectacular supercar, the 550 Maranello, in 1996. The world’s press gathered at the Nürburgring to see the unveiling of the car that replaced the F512M. Most did not believe that a front-engined V12 could outperform a mid-engined sports car, but they were wrong. The 550 Maranello proved quicker and far more practical.

After the era of the flat-12 Testarossa derived super GTs, the 550 was a welcome throwback to the glory days of Ferrari’s grand touring cars. The 550 Maranello was the first front-engined Ferrari V12 two-seater coupe since the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, and it was also the last V12 to only be offered with a six-speed manual transmission. From the sloping rear window to the long front hood, the Daytona inspiration was clear.

The luxury was there, as came to be expected. Full leather, air conditioning, and electric seats, windows, and mirrors, along with that familiar Ferrari flare, were all included. Also included was a classic metal shift gate, drilled pedals, and a beautifully designed dash. The 485 horsepower V12 brought the 550 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, 100 mph in 10.2 seconds, and 150 mph in 23.5 seconds, pulling hard all the way to just shy of 200 mph. With a drag coefficient of just Cd 0.33, its aerodynamics were more than impressive when compared to its predecessor.

The car we are offering is a RHD car supplied new to the United Kingdom in January, 1999 via Maranello Concessionaires. It is finished in the lesser-seen combination of Argento Nurburgring over a Grey leather interior. Additional factory options when new included; Grey Coloured Carpets, Black Brake Callipers, Dark Grey Leather Upper Dashboard and Grey Coloured Pillars & Roof.

It sits today showing just over 20,000 miles from new and has been very well cared for over the years with a comprehensive service history comprising of 18 stamps in the service booklet. These cars are truly wonderful to drive and well-kept, low-mileage examples like this are becoming more difficult to find. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.