2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta
Following the 23-year absence of a front-engined, V12 powered, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer, a layout last seen on the 365 GTB/4 Daytona in 1973, Ferrari launched the all-new 550 Maranello in July 1996 at the Nürburgring circuit. The 550 moniker represented the total engine displacement in decaliters, with "Maranello" paying homage to the home of Ferrari. The stunning bodywork was styled by Pininfarina, and underneath the bonnet lay a 478-horsepower, 5.5-litre V12 mated to a six-speed manual transmission. With its good looks, eye-watering performance, and excellent handling, the 550 Maranello marked Ferrari’s triumphant return to its grand touring roots.
Four years after the launch of the 550 Maranello, Ferrari decided to honour long-term partner Pininfarina, marking the carrozzeria’s 70th anniversary with the unveiling of the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina at the 2000 Paris Motor Show. Sharing its drivetrain with the 550 Maranello, this limited-edition model was a true barchetta, with no permanent convertible top provided. A cloth soft-top was supplied by the factory, but only to be used below 110 km/h.
A mere 448 Barchettas were built with this particular example being one of just 42 cars produced in RHD for the U.K. market. It was supplied new in July, 2001 via Ferrari Colchester. Finished in the classic colour combination of Rosso Corsa over a Nero leather interior with a Black canvas hood and further specified with Nero Coloured Stitching, Nero Coloured Carpets, Red Brake Callipers, Scuderia Shields, Black Leather Covers for Roll Bars, and Interior Fire Extinguisher.