The 550 Maranello marked a major shift in Ferrari’s model lineup as it celebrated the return of the classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Thanks in part to the Maranello’s incredible success, Ferrari launched an open-top variant that featured a shorter, more aggressively raked windshield, two-piece alloy wheels, and racing seats. Dubbed the 550 Barchetta and limited to just 448 units, it was highly regarded by collectors and the media alike, packing the same performance as its hardtop sibling.

By 2006, the storied Milan-based coachbuilding company Zagato had been working on a reimagining of both the Barchetta and its successor – the 575. Born from a collaboration between Zagato and a discerning Japanese collector, the endeavor was code-named the “Zero Project.” Yielding cars that both honored Ferrari’s heritage and showcased Zagato’s design expertise, the project also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Zagato. One of these models was a chic coupe – the 575 GTZ – while the other was the 550 GTZ Barchetta. Only five 575 GTZs and three 550 GTZ Barchettas were built, making each an incredibly rare and sought-after collectible.

As with every Zagato product, the 550 GTZ Barchetta’s stunning coachwork was completed at their headquarters in Milan. The bodywork was crafted from lightweight aluminum and featured an electro-hydraulic, power-folding top designed by Zagato which automatically attached itself to the low-raked windshield. The design elegantly married the classic proportions of the 550 Maranello with modern stylistic cues, resulting in a timeless aesthetic.

Originally starting life as the 77th of 448 Ferrari 550 Barchettas built, this example remained on the East Coast for its early years. By 2008, it was offered for sale by British Motor Car Distributors in San Francisco and acquired by the current owner. Impressed by the legendary history and build quality of Zagato, the consignor commissioned his own 550 GTZ after seeing one on display at Pebble Beach and subsequently shipped his Barchetta to Zagato’s headquarters to undergo a five-month transformation.

The final product is a stunning reimagining of the 550 Barchetta, sporting Argento Nürburgring (Nürburgring Silver) paint, red leather, and a black convertible top. The Ferrari has remained with the consignor ever since and displayed just 7,709 miles when catalogued, having only been shown at several concours d’elegance and local Cars & Coffee gatherings. The car also underwent recent service work by local Ferrari specialist Exclusive Motorcars of Arizona, with an invoice totaling over $11,000. Believed to be one of only two in the US, this 550 GTZ Barchetta is a unique and highly coveted variant of an already celebrated grand tourer – an opportunity not to be missed.