Ferrari 550 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ferrari 550

The Ferrari 550 was introduced in 1996 as a direct answer to traditional grand touring, reintroducing a front-mounted V12 after decades of mid-engine focus. Ferrari allocated considerable development resources to this model, with its design refined across 4,800 hours in the wind tunnel to optimise aerodynamics. Pininfarina sculpted the body, blending muscular proportions with advanced functionality. The model takes its '550' designation from the 5.5-litre displacement. Over roughly six years of production, it demonstrated Ferrari’s ability to merge racing-derived engineering with impressive comfort and usability for long-distance travel. The 550’s launch coincided with the retirement of the Testarossa/F512M lineage, positioning the 550 Maranello as a modern reinterpretation of the V12 grand tourer concept, a direct homage to the classic 365 GTB/4 Daytona of the early '70s.

Model History

With the 550 Maranello, Ferrari transitioned from the outgoing F512M and mid-engine Testarossa to a classic front-engine GT architecture. The 550’s underpinnings are derived from the four-seater 456 GT, using a shortened chassis for a true two-seat experience and optimised weight distribution. Production ran until 2001 (some sources state 2002), when the updated 575M Maranello took over, featuring more power and chassis refinements. Notably, the 550 also served as a successful base for specialist racing conversions, including privateer GT and Le Mans entries. In total, around 3,083 coupés and 448 Barchetta Pininfarina convertibles were built.

Highlights of the Ferrari 550

Ferrari’s 550 series brings together impressive technical and usability features: a transaxle layout with a rear-mounted six-speed manual, 5.5-litre all-aluminium V12 generating 485hp, class-leading acceleration, and an (at the time) record-breaking maximum speed of up to 320km/h. Electronically adjustable dampers (Normal/Sport), vented disc brakes (developed by Brembo), and a remarkably large boot distinguish the 550 as a true GT. Details such as the gated shifter, original magnesium wheels, and extensive use of aluminium and magnesium components underline its engineering focus. Notable factory options included Daytona-style sports seats, the Fiorano Handling Package, Scuderia shields, modular wheels, and a Schedoni luggage set for long-distance travel.

With a supply share of 100%, all Ferrari 550s offered on the market are of this manufacturer code, reflecting complete demand focus on this specific model series in relation to other contemporary Ferraris. Demand share data confirms these cars enjoy undivided attention, with 100% of Ferrari listing views in this segment attributed to the 550.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina, launched in 2000 to celebrate Pininfarina’s 70th anniversary, stands out as the primary special edition—limited to 448 units, with a unique open roof configuration, shortened windscreen, and minimalist weather protection. Additionally, the 'WSR' (World Speed Record) special—limited to 33 cars—commemorates the record-breaking endurance runs in the USA with unique specification featuring carbon-shell Daytona seats, special badging, Alcantara steering wheel, larger roll bar, and the Fiorano Handling Pack. For motorsport, a handful of '550 GT1/Prodrive' cars were produced for endurance racing, earning victories at Le Mans and in FIA GT events, making them significant for racing history enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While the 550 is known for robust engineering, prospective buyers should check for full maintenance history and service records due to complex V12 mechanics and electronic dampers. Originality is prized, so full toolkits, owner’s manuals, leather bookpacks, and factory options are essential for value retention. Clutch wear, regular timing belt changes, and functioning air conditioning are known service areas for this generation, as well as inspection of suspension bushings and electronic modules that control the adaptive dampers. Rust is rare due to the aluminium body, but corrosion around chassis mounts should not be overlooked.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 5.5-litre V12 delivers power through a precise six-speed gated manual, coupled to a rear differential, offering pure, mechanical interaction. Near 50:50 weight balance and electronically adjustable dampers enable secure, agile handling, while a 320km/h top speed and 0–100km/h time of 4.4 seconds highlight performance credentials. Brakes—vented discs all around developed with Brembo—manage repeatable stops even in spirited driving. These characteristics, combined with long wheelbase stability and a large, practical boot, make the 550 equally competent on cross-continental journeys or twisting backroads. - Ferrari 550 Maranello Coupé: Recognised for classic manual engagement and powerful V12

• Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina: Limited open-top edition, notable collector’s appeal
• Ferrari 550 WSR: GTX variant celebrating world speed records
• Ferrari 550 GT1/Prodrive: Motorsport models for GT/Endurance racing

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Ferrari 550’s body is a work of Pininfarina, balancing muscular rear haunches, a long bonnet, and tightly drawn lines. With functional integration of features such as headlamps and front intakes, the car was shaped by aerodynamic demands while remaining distinctly Italian. Interiors are crafted in full leather, with iconic details like the exposed metal H-gate, drilled aluminium pedals, and an array of bold colour options—such as Rosso Corsa with tan hide, Grigio Titanio with navy blue, or Blu Swaters Mica. Well-preserved examples retain matched Schedoni luggage, original Becker or CD audio, electrically operated seats, and the distinctive five-spoke magnesium alloys—an echo of nineties GT racing. Attention to detail carries into optional extras: Daytona bucket seats, factory Scuderia shields, and the Fiorano Handling Pack show the possibilities for both comfort and performance customisation.

Other Features

Practical touches include a remarkably spacious boot for a supercar, factory air conditioning, power-operated seats and mirrors, central locking, and a high-capacity 114-litre fuel tank. The 550 qualifies for a range of motorsport and heritage events—including Ferrari Club gatherings and prestigious historic racing series, especially in Prodrive/GT1 variants. Factory tools, complete service books, and original key sets are details highly prized in this circle, reflecting the significance of originality to value and desirability.

Summary

The Ferrari 550 is a milestone in the V12 GT lineage, reuniting front-engine sportsmanship with twenty-first-century engineering. Its status as the sole front-engined manual V12 Ferrari of its era, combined with exceptional build quality and everyday usability, places it among the most complete gran turismos produced in Maranello. From specialised racing successes to limited collectors’ runs and long-distance comfort, the 550 remains uncompromising in both spirit and design.