Vehicle Description
Chassis No. ZFFZR49A6X0114824
For nearly two decades, it seemed the days of the traditional
front-engine, rear-transaxle layout employed in such celebrated
flagships as the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona and 250 GTO were behind
the Maranello-based marque. However, in 1992, a front-mounted V12
once again graced a Ferrari GT in the all-new 456 GT 2+2. A revised
version of its potent 5.5-liter V12 joined to a six-speed manual
transaxle reappeared four years later in 1996 in the two-seater 550
Maranello, picking up where the treasured Daytona had left off.
In spite of its mechanical similarities to the 456 GT, the 550
represented a step forward in every aspect. The two-seater coupe
was shorter in overall length while having a four-inch longer
wheelbase, with its stunning aluminum bodywork designed by
Pininfarina, evoking the long-hood, short-deck proportions of the
Daytona. Under its scooped hood rested the same V12 cylinder block
of the 456 GT, albeit with an entirely different intake system and
cylinder heads, titanium connecting rods, Mahle pistons, and a
lightened crank. These alterations amounted to an enormous 485
horsepower and 419 lb-ft of torque and enabled top speed of 199 mph
- just shy of the 202-mph Ferrari F50.
This spectacular 550 Maranello was completed in December 1998 as a
left-hand drive, U.S.-market example. Finished in Grigio Ingrid
(720) over attractive two-tone Bordeaux and Crema leather with
optional Crema piping, standard amenities included automatic
climate control, electric windows, a trunk-mounted six-disc CD
changer, and matching Bordeaux rear luggage straps. The CARFAX
Vehicle History Report's initial entry in October 2005, places the
Ferrari in Quebec, Canada, with subsequent registration and service
history indicating the car remained in Canada until at least 2013.
The report resumes in June 2020, showing that the 550 had
accumulated 13,116 miles and was then registered in
Connecticut.
Now offered with just over 15,100 miles at the time of cataloging,
the 550 is resplendent in its wonderful and extremely rare original
color combination, complemented by a well preserved interior and
undercarriage. In July 2024, the 550 Maranello was treated to a
complete belt service performed by Driversource in Houston, Texas.
As part of this service, fluids were changed and the 550 Maranello
received a new set of tires.
The 550 Maranello is a modern classic that has grown tremendously
more desirable in recent years as one of the last Ferraris to
embrace an analog driving experience, this example is ready to be
enjoyed by its next owner, who will no doubt appreciate its
intoxicating combination of comfort, power, and aural delights.
Offered with its tool kit and tire inflator, this is a uniquely
specified example of Maranello's celebrated gated manual,
front-engine V12 grand touring formula.
