1996 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. The 48-valve, 5.5-litre V12 developed 485bhp at 7,000rpm and the 6-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 200mph.

Offered here at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2022 is a superb Ferrari 550 Maranello supplied new by JCT600 Specialist Cars in April 1997 finished in classic colours with Rosso Corsa paintwork, Crema leather interior and matching Rosso carpets. Coming to market from 16-years private ownership and indicating 54,244 miles on the odometer supported by a comprehensive service record.

Overall, the 26-year-old Ferrari presents very well, the Rosso Corsa paintwork retains an even finish and deep gloss across the bodywork with uniform panel gaps, the wheels present well and black brake calipers show nicely through the alloy spokes. Inside the cabin space is a factory, special-order Bordeaux leather dashboard that really sets this 550 apart from others and looks fabulous.The leather seats are in good order with minimal wear relative to their age and the limited electronic gadgetry tested appears to function well. Absolutely on-the-button, the 550 fires into life and sounds strong and healthy with no adverse smoke or sounds and we understand that on the road the Ferrari performs well due to its comprehensive maintenance over the years and stops well with well adjusted brakes and  matching premium-brand tyres on all four corners.

Accompanying the 550 is a history file with Ferrari book pack including a service book stamped up-to-date with 16 stamps from Ferrari agents or specialists with the most recent entry a belt service in 2019 at 54,202 miles. Also within the file are paper invoices supporting many of the services and other maintenance along with old registration documents, Tracker paperwork, spare key and fobs (including the red one) and a wealth of old MOT Certificates with the most recent valid until August 2023. In the car is the tyre inflation system, Ferrari tool kit and a trickle charger to keep the battery maintained when not in use.

In summary, this is a lovely 550 Maranello that has clearly been well maintained and has covered a 'sensible' mileage, meaning that it's a car you can continue to use as intended on long road trips without feeling guilty about racking up the miles. Offered at a sensible guide, this lovely modern-classic Ferrari may well turn out to be one of your better decisions.