1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello

Firmly placed in Ferrari's history as one of their finest modern era big GTs, the 550 Maranello's combination of elegant lines and legendary front mounted, 12-cylinder engine, meant that these cars had the potential to become instant classics. Following in the footsteps and sharing the DNA of the 365 GTB/4 'Daytona', the 550 Maranello is inevitability compared to its forebear. However, few front-engined Ferraris have quite justified that comparison quite like the 550 Maranello.

Styled by Pininfarina, like its illustrious predecessor, the 550 Maranello was similarly proportioned, adopting the classical combination of long bonnet, small cabin and truncated tail. Classic Ferrari styling cues include a bonnet air scoop and hot air outlets behind the front wheel arches recalling the great 'Competizione' Ferraris of the past, whilst the rear incorporates Ferrari's characteristic twin circular lights.

The heart of any Ferrari is its engine, and the 550 Maranello's 48-valve, 5.5-litre V12 developed 485bhp at 7,000rpm.

The six-speed manual gearbox complements a slightly more even torque curve ensuring that the power delivery was a little less frenetic, whilst excellent weight distribution and delightful road manners make the 550 Maranello a truly refined driving machine, whilst still capable of almost 200 mph.

In 2004, EVO magazine published a 'Greatest Driver's Cars' feature that set the 550 Maranello against the Porsche 911 GT3, Honda NSX-R, and Pagani Zonda C12S. The Ferrari won. EVO stated 'As with all great cars, there's no one facet that dominates the experience. Yes, the engine is mighty, but the chassis is its equal. There's never been a supercar that's so exploitable and so rounded in its capabilities.'

This superb 1998, left-hand drive, Ferrari 550 Maranello has a manual gearbox and is finished in the striking combination of Tour de France Blue and Tan leather. Imported from Japan, it's now UK registered with all taxes paid. Its indicated 29,000 miles (46,400 kms) is supported by a comprehensive service history including the original service schedule, forming part of a complete book pack in a Ferrari leather-bound wallet, and service receipts from Cornes Ferrari in Japan. An oil service has just been carried out by Ferrari Specialists in Surrey and its ready for its new owner to enjoy.

Front-engined, V12, manual Ferraris continue to have the renaissance they richly deserve and this beautiful 550 Maranello, whilst being competitively guided, opens the door into a very exclusive club. Now ready to be enjoyed by a new owner, this is one not to be missed.

Please note this car has just benefited £3000 service prior to the Auction at Ferrari Specialist in the UK.