1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello

Who says they don’t make’em like they used to?

The gentleman’s express 550 Maranello with its masterpiece naturally aspirated V12 front-mount engine broke Ferrari’s exotic status quo to return the automaker to its traditional GT roots in style.

Put simply, there are three key reasons the 550 Maranello enjoys sitting atop collectors’ wish lists; three pedals and a chrome gated 6 speed manual that makes that signature “click” with every shift, a colossal N/A V12 that wouldn’t look out of place on display in the Louvre, and handling and performance still impressive in 2019 with 480hp on tap and a 0-100km/h sprint time despatched in just 4.5 seconds.

Unending, massive torque, addictive shifting and so much presence and charisma without resorting to shock tactics, the 550 Maranello is the textbook example of what a potent GT should be.

Sold new through Charles Hurst Ferrari, Belfast in March of 1998 and privately imported to Australia following its purchase by the current owner in 2015 this right-hand drive Nurburgring Silver on Nero leather trim 550 Maranello is in outstanding original condition.

Accompanied by its full suite of manuals kept in the original leather wallet detailing a complete service history, the last major works completed in 2020 this rare car has received meticulous servicing.

With the only modification being a battery preserver kill switch, this totally original car still features its correct aluminium alloys, quad exhaust, Data-Dot Sigla glass throughout, perforated leather steering wheel and pristine double stitched leather console. All indicative signs of a cherished car.

At the Nürburgring launch, Grand Prix legend Niki Lauda was on hand to drive members of the press corps on fast laps around the circuit, which he unsentimentally calls “the grill room”. Lauda commented, “You can forget the 512. No comparison. This is the first modern Ferrari, and the first I would really want to own”.

They look good, they feel good, and they go good. This 550 Maranello is one to take home, especially as this modern classic era of cars starts its upward shift. Now all you need to say is I get it, I want it, let’s do it.