1999 Ferrari 550 Maranello - Classiche Certified, 23,000 Miles

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 forbear. 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, a small cabin and a 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 develops 485bhp at 7,000rpm. The powertrain was housed in a tubular steel chassis, to which was attached aluminium coachwork, whilst the all-independent suspension incorporated dual-mode (normal/sports) damping, switch-selectable by the driver, which was complemented by speed-sensitive power-assisted steering. 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.

Finished in classic Rosso Corsa with a cream leather interior, this beautiful 550 Maranello was delivered new in the UK via Stratstone, Manchester to James Bird of Stone in Shropshire. Having resided with its second owner in Copenhagen, the Ferrari returned to the UK and remained with its next owner until 2014. The car was fully recommissioned by Meridien Modena in 2015 and sold to the previous keeper later that same year. Purchased by our vendor at auction in 2017, the 550 has continued to be maintained regardless of cost with Meridien Modena and will be serviced by them prior to sale and come with 12 months MOT. Described by our vendor as in 'generally excellent condition', this low-mileage 550 Maranello is offered with Ferrari Classiche Certification, sundry service invoices, V5C Registration Certificate, and all its original books, and pleasingly the Cherished Registration Number, T12 FER, is included in the sale.

With styling that is ageing particularly well, a high-quality cabin, generous storage and an enormous 100-litre-plus fuel tank, the 550 Maranello really is the consummate 'European Grand Tourer' in the true Ferrari mould.