2003 Ferrari 575M F1 'Fiorano'

In 1996, Ferrari introduced the 550 Maranello in a bid to revive their fabled line of grand tourers, and the 550 quickly proved to be an overwhelming success. Six years later, in 2002, the 575M Maranello appeared bringing with it a host of healthy updates adding additional potency to an already incredible car. Increasing the displacement of the V-12 by 250 cubic centimetres to 5748 cc, resulted in 508bhp and 434lb/ft of torque, 0-60 in 4.2 seconds and an advertised top speed of 202 mph. The front end was slightly revised with newer headlights, a redesigned air intake and front spoiler, and the weight distribution was improved to 50/50. Two six-speed transmissions were available – a conventional manual gearbox and, for the first time on a Ferrari V12, Magneti Marelli"s semi-automatic (electro-hydraulic manual) "F1" gearbox. Further mechanical improvements included bigger brakes and an adaptive suspension set-up (the four independent suspension units are also controlled by the gearbox, to minimise pitch throughout the 200-milliseconds gear shift time). Inside, the interior was modernised and refreshed with an updated dashboard, trim, and steering wheel.

This, collector's quality, left-hand drive, 575M was supplied new to Japan in 2003 and delivered to Cornes & Co. in Tokyo optioned with the F1 gearbox, Daytona Seats, and the 'Fiorano' Handling Pack. With those gorgeous 'Coke-bottle' curves and a bonnet that goes on forever, we always feel that these cars look best in dark colours, and this 575 is indeed finished in Nuovo Nero Daytona (rare Metallic Black) with a fabulous full-leather interior in Bordeaux Red. Imported into the UK in the Spring of 2015, the Ferrari was MOT'd on 26/052015 at 15,760kms and purchased by its first UK owner on 15/06/2015. Whilst in his possession there is a receipt (£1,337.40) for “Airbag ECU” and rocker cover gaskets, and the service book was stamped on 31/10/2015 at 16,333 kms. prior to the car's purchase by our vendor from Ferrari specialists, The Supercar Centre, Sheffield on 03/11/2015.

Having joined our vendor's collection of serious Ferraris, the 575 has only been lightly used since, covering just over 100kms, and was granted an MOT on 31/05/2017 at 16,419kms (10,262 miles). It remains in remarkable, almost 'Concours' condition.

It's accompanied by a spare key and fob, tool kit and tyre kit in the boot, and the leather Ferrari wallet containing its book pack. In addition to both recent MOT Certificates and the Service Book, there are import papers dated 31/03/15 and a large number of documents in Japanese, detailing its maintenance, attentions and legality whilst over there. Our vendor informs us that the cambelts were changed at 15,000kms.

With deep paintwork, good panel gaps and a superb interior, this 2003 Ferrari presents really well, however, 575s are not just pretty faces, they"re tantalising to drive, with great balance, lots of power and pin-sharp steering. The all-alloy V12 just keeps revving, whilst variable-volume intake and exhaust systems ensure there"s no shortage of torque. So with classic looks, fabulous build quality and stratospheric performance, these are cars that satisfy on every level, and consequently, values continue to move gently forward.