1998 | Ferrari 550 Maranello

Offered here is one of the finest examples of Ferrari's legendary 550 Maranello-an icon of 1990s grand touring excellence. This particular car, finished in the quintessential Rosso Corsa over supple Nero hide, is paired with a gated six-speed manual gearbox and presents with only 13,900 km from new. A full Ferrari service history accompanies the car, underscoring its meticulous care and impeccable pedigree. From the moment I eased this Ferrari out of our Battersea garages, the connection was instant.

The steering-delightfully weighted-spoke directly to my fingertips, and the clutch pedal, while firm, was perfectly intuitive. As I made my way through casual traffic en route to Battersea Park, I was struck by how manageable and understated the car felt. The 550's docility at lower speeds and smooth power delivery make it remarkably usable as a daily driver. But, of course, I wasn't going to miss the opportunity to let it breathe. Opening up the V12 on a clearer stretch of road, the experience transformed.

The surge of power, the snarl from the front-mounted engine, and the mechanical click of each gear slotting into place through the metal gates were utterly intoxicating. Few things compare to the physicality and precision of that gated shifter-it's a visceral thrill that's becoming increasingly rare in modern machines. Introduced at the Nürburgring in 1996, the 550 Maranello marked Ferrari's triumphant return to front-engine V12 grand tourers after a 23-year hiatus since the Daytona.

Designed under the guidance of Ferrari's then-chairman, Luca di Montezemolo, the 550 was meant to offer a perfect synthesis of performance, luxury, and long-distance comfort. Styled by Pininfarina, its timeless silhouette-with a long bonnet, classic coupe proportions, and purposeful rear stance-was met with critical acclaim. Enthusiasts and reviewers alike praised it as a true driver's car, with Car and Driver famously declaring, "It redefined the grand tourer for the modern age."

At the heart of the 550 Maranello is a 5.5-liter V12 engine producing 485 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 420 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. The engine-mounted up front but set well back for better weight distribution-features dry-sump lubrication, titanium connecting rods, and individual throttle bodies. Paired with the engaging six-speed manual transmission, the car boasts a perfect 50:50 weight balance and a limited-slip differential. Performance figures are equally impressive: 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph. Suspension duties are handled by double wishbones all around, with adjustable dampers offering both comfort and sporting precision. Meanwhile, massive ventilated discs with ABS provide excellent stopping power.

Our car's stunning Rosso Corsa paintwork gleams with a deep luster, perfectly complementing the luxurious nero leather interior. The cabin remains in remarkable condition, with minimal wear and all switchgear in full working order. The original Ferrari toolkit, books, and service records-documenting a comprehensive maintenance history-are all present, including the recent cam belt change. Having personally experienced this masterpiece, I can attest to its impeccable road manners and the unparalleled engagement it offers. Whether cruising comfortably through city streets or thrilling the senses on the open road, this 550 Maranello embodies the spirit of Ferrari's V12 heritage like no other. Truly, this is a collector-grade example that would elevate any discerning enthusiast's garage.