2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina
Registration no. LP51 UYF
Chassis no. ZFFZR52C000124416

The long association between Ferrari and Pininfarina has been responsible for the creation of some of the most sublime fusions of art and automotive technology, and to mark the world renowned Carrozzeria's 70th Anniversary in 2000, Ferrari supremo Luca di Montezemolo invited Sergio Pininfarina to submit designs for a front-engined roadster embodying the spirit of past Maranello classics. Choosing the 550 Maranello coupé as the basis, the maestro proposed a return to the traditional barchetta style. In Ferrari's own words: "Functional and unadorned with a simple manual soft-top, the barchetta-style solution has enabled Ferrari's engineers to offset the additional weight gained by reinforcing the chassis and fitting rear roll bars. Consequently the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina weighs no more than the 500 Maranello."

The heart of any Ferrari is its engine, and the Barchetta Pininfarina's 48-valve, 5.5-litre V12 is the same as that of the 550 Maranello, developing 485bhp at 7,000rpm. All main engine castings of this state-of-the-art power unit are in light alloy, the aluminium wet liners are Nikasil coated and the connecting rods are titanium alloy. The design of the inlet and exhaust systems is derived directly from that of Ferrari's Formula 1 engines, providing the optimum balance between volumetric and combustion efficiency. Variable intake geometry helps increase both torque and maximum power, ensuring "optimum performance at all engine speeds, guaranteeing excellent torque delivery throughout the rev range". One expects nothing less from Ferrari.

Standard equipment included electric windows and door mirrors, air conditioning, remote alarm and central locking, and split-rim alloy wheels. The production run was limited to 448 cars, each individually numbered and carrying a plaque inside with its own serial number and Sergio Pininfarina's signature. The result was an instant classic, with production reserved for a handful of faithful Ferraristi.

This rare right-hand drive example was delivered new to South Africa in UK specification and has covered only some 7,000 kilometres (approximately 4,300 miles) since it left the factory. Delivered by Rosso Sport Auto, the then official Ferrari dealership in Johannesburg, the car has had two previous owners and was brought to the UK by the current owner when he emigrated.

From delivery to 2013, the Barchettawas maintained fastidiously by the late Piero Giovanelli of Rosso Sport Auto. From 2013 to 2018, servicing was carried out by Scuderia South Africa (formerly Viglietti Motors), the official Ferrari dealer in South Africa. Since its arrival in the UK in April 2018, the Barchetta has been serviced and stored by marque specialists DK Engineering and is up to date.

Finished in Rosso Corsa with light tan interior, this Barchetta comes with all books and tools; Certificate of Origin; import documentation; Ferrari warranty card; Republic of South Africa Certificate of Registration; the two originally supplied helmets and their bags; a V5C registration document; and current MoT. Described by the private vendor as in excellent condition throughout, this most exclusive numbered modern Ferrari would be a credit to any private collection.