2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta

Among Ferrari's greatest achievements, the 550 ranks highly as a return to the front-engined, two-seater touring coupe tradition. Introduced in 1996, Ferrari built 3,083 examples of the 550 Maranello through 2001, solidifying the front-engined V12 as a flagship series.

The 550 Maranello, designed by Pininfarina's Lorenzo Ramaciotti, marked Ferrari's first front-engined V12 coupe since the 365 GTB/4 Daytona. From 1973 to 1996, Ferrari focused on mid-engine flat 12-cylinder Berlinetta Boxer coupes, culminating in the Testarossa series. The 550 Barchetta, introduced in 2000, was limited to just 448 units.

The 550 Barchetta boasts a long, sleek design, embodying Ferrari's touring coupe heritage. Its timeless, functional shape recalls the iconic 365 GTB/4 Daytona, signaling a return to Ferrari's front-engined roots. The 550 Maranello debuted at the Nürburgring in July 1996, reflecting Luca di Montezemolo's vision for a racing-inspired coupe. The car's name signifies its 5.5-liter displacement and Maranello, Ferrari's headquarters.

The 550 Barchetta debuted at the 2000 Paris Auto Show, celebrating Pininfarina's 70th anniversary. This true roadster featured a snap-on cloth cover for the leather interior, considered temporary at speeds over 70 mph due to wind noise and buffeting. Pininfarina enhanced the Barchetta's aerodynamics with a raked windscreen and functional rollover hoops, creating a marginally longer and more functional car.

Special 19” wheels were designed for the Barchetta. Ferrari produced 448 units, four more than planned, to avoid the number 4 due to Japanese superstitions. These production cars followed 12 prototypes, numbered P01-P12.

This 2000 Ferrari 550 Barchetta, chassis number ZFFZR52AX10123694, is painted in Rosso Corsa with a Nero interior. Number 22 out of 448, it includes the Fiorano Handling Package. The car, in excellent condition and well-maintained by a collector, is equipped with a 5.4L V12 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, achieving a top speed of 185 mph.

Sold with its original books and tools, this Barchetta is a prime addition for collectors seeking a well-preserved piece of Ferrari history with enhanced handling features.