1998 Ferrari 550
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Year of manufacture1998
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Mileage28 897 km / 17 956 mi
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Car typeOther
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Lot number29
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Reference number3121
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DriveLHD
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ConditionUsed
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Exterior brand colourother
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
Description
Chassis No. ZFFZR49J000114342
In 1996, Maranello bid farewell to the iconic mid-engine Testarossa lineage and ushered in a new era of refined grand tourer. Echoing the layout of the legendary 365 GTB/4 Daytona, the 550 revived the front-engine, rear transaxle configuration, a quarter-century after its last appearance in Ferrari's flagship.
This return to tradition yielded dividends in both comfort and practicality, offering a more accommodating cabin than its mid-engine predecessor. Under its scooped hood rested the same V12 cylinder block of the 456 GT, albeit with an entirely different intake system and cylinder heads, titanium connecting rods, Mahle pistons, and a lightened crank. This powerplant produced 485 horsepower, propelling the 550 from zero to 60 miles per hour in just over four seconds and achieving a top speed approaching 200 mph. Yet, it's the effortless nature of this performance that truly distinguishes the 550 Maranello. Power steering, an ergonomic driving position, and a wealth of low-end torque conspire to create a thoroughly modern and usable interpretation of the classic Ferrari GT.
This outstanding left-hand-drive, 550 Maranello was originally delivered on 12 January 1999 to Cornes & Company Ltd. in Japan, tastefully specified in Grigio Ingrid (720) paintwork over a Sabbia (4310) leather interior. Further complements to its understated configuration include Nero contrast piping, a Nero steering wheel, a diamond-stitched leather rear shelf, and the uncommon Fiorano Handling Package-highlighted by stiffer springs and a revised steering rack. The center console is also distinguished by an optional dedication plate engraved with the name of the Ferrari's original owner: Takashi Tsurugaya. Japanese documentation on file shows that the car was diligently maintained on the island nation, including service performed by authorized Ferrari service centers at the following intervals: 10,146 km (2002),18,292 km (2007), 20,506 km (2009), 22,831 km (2011), 24,035 km (2013). By the mid-2010s, the car had been imported to the U.K. where it continued to receive extensive service courtesy of QV London in Windsor, England. Additionally, in August 2023, a timing belt service was performed along with a fluids and filters change by The Supercar Tech in Edinburgh, Scottland.
Since being imported to the United States in 2024, the car was treated to an oil service, fuse panel upgrade, and updated aluminum fuel pumps in preparation for the sale. Showing just under 29,000 kilometers (approximately 18,000 miles) on the odometer at the time of cataloging, this 550 Maranello represents a well-maintained and cared-for example. The car is accompanied by service records, a full tool kit, a tire inflator with a Sabbia leather case, a set of three keys and remotes, and its car cover. This 550 Maranello embodies the pinnacle of Ferrari's front-engine grand touring philosophy, marrying Pininfarina's elegant styling with exhilarating V12 performance to deliver a driving experience that remains as captivating today as it was when new.