1999 FERRARI 550

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. 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 power-train was housed in a tubular steel chassis, to which was attached aluminium coachwork, while 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.

Offered from long-term ownership - some 19 years - this particular right-hand drive Ferrari 550 is one of just 69 such examples finished in Grigio Titanio with this particular 6-speed manual gearbox version having Bordeaux hide to the interior and optioned from the factory with the desirable Daytona seats and red brake callipers. It's accompanied by a correct and complete book pack and numerous invoices detailing works carried out over the years. Having formed part of a private Collection in recent years the Ferrari has been used sparingly and with that in mind, it is to be presented for a fresh MOT inspection prior to sale. It should also be noted that the Cherished Registration number currently assigned to the vehicle, M55 OSW will remain and does form part of the sale.

A beautiful Grand Tourer that provides luxury motoring in true Ferrari terms and with classic styling that appears to improve with age, this particular 550 really is worthy of your early inspection.