Description

The Ferrari 550 Maranello was launched in 1996 as Ferrari’s new flagship grand tourer, signaling a return to a front-engined V12 layout that harked back to legendary models like the 365 GTB/4 Daytona. It replaced the mid-engined flat-12 F512 M and marked a major shift in philosophy, combining Ferrari’s traditional grand touring elegance with modern engineering and performance.

The 550 was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V12 producing 485 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. Performance was formidable, with a top speed of 320 km/h and 0–100 km/h acceleration in around 4.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its era. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout gave it exceptional balance and predictability, while advanced suspension and braking systems ensured it could handle both high-speed touring and spirited driving with equal confidence.

Styling was handled by Pininfarina, who delivered a timeless design blending aggression and sophistication. The long bonnet, clean lines, and purposeful stance gave the car a modern yet classic Ferrari look. Inside, the 550 offered a luxurious leather-trimmed cabin, more spacious and comfortable than its predecessors, yet still focused on the driver with a traditional gated shifter and clear instrumentation.

The 550 Maranello was also highly successful on the track. In GT racing, specially prepared versions, such as the Prodrive-built 550 GTS, enjoyed considerable success in endurance racing, including victories in the FIA GT Championship and at Le Mans in the early 2000s.

Between 1996 and 2001, Ferrari built just over 3,000 examples of the 550 Maranello. Its combination of front-engined V12 power, classic Ferrari styling, and usability made it an instant classic. Today, it is celebrated as a milestone car that redefined Ferrari’s grand touring tradition and laid the foundation for successors like the 575M Maranello and 599 GTB Fiorano.