1997 FERRARI 550 MARANELLO

A fine example of a thoroughbred grand touring Ferrari, this 550 Maranello is presented in the gorgeous colour combination of Blu Le Mans with Cuoio leather. Powered by the 5.5-litre F133A V12 engine, producing 478bhp, it is driven through the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission with a wonderful open-gate shift lever. Originally delivered to Japan, this left-hand-drive example has covered only 43,637 km from new (27,114 miles).

Supplied new by Tokyo Ferrari dealer Cornes in November 1997, the car was shipped to the UK in recent years as a very good ‘Grade 4’ car, and re-registered in 2016. The car has had one previous UK owner before the seller, who has owned the car for nearly three years and has covered approximately 1,500 km in this time.

The striking Blu Le Mans paintwork presents very well with a deep gloss. Some minor stone chips are visible to the bonnet, but otherwise the exterior looks smart, with lenses and rubbers presenting well. Under the hood, the engine bay is clean and tidy with little wear. The correct 18-inch five-spoke wheels are in excellent condition, and the brake calipers are painted black.

Moving inside, the Cuoio leather pairs perfectly with the dark blue exterior. The majority of the switchgear has been professionally refinished to remove the ‘sticky plastic’ appearance that is common with this era of Ferrari. Aside from some slight leather shrinkage and minor wear on the gear knob, the interior is in great condition, with original dealer floor mats protecting the carpet. The sound system has also been upgraded with Pioneer head unit and Focal speakers.

The car was most recently serviced by Dick Lovett Ferrari in Swindon, and has been looked after by that main dealer during the seller’s ownership. In September 2018, it received a full service and overhaul of numerous other items at 42,619 km, at a total cost of over £10,000.

In the history file, there is also detail of the car’s Japanese service history, with a summary visible in the photos. The cam timing belt was changed as part of a major service in the UK at 40,817 km. It remains in its original factory specification, save for the addition of a high-performance Tubi exhaust system that allows the V12 to truly sing.

The most recent MOT test was on 14 September 2018 at 42,621 km, which was a first-time pass with a few advisories. The nearside rear shock absorber was in need of some attention, and the front power steering hose had some slight seepage. It is understood that both of these notes have been rectified. The seller notes that one of the under-trays is currently slightly loose, but that it will be fixed prior to handover. They have also committed to provide the car with a fresh 12-month MOT certificate for the next owner.

The car is wearing two-year-old Michelin tyres that are reported to be in good condition. Accompanying this 550 is a complete original book pack, including the original stamped guarantee and maintenance record, and numerous service receipts.

Boasting a stunning and rare colour combination, this Ferrari 550 Maranello is ready for many more miles with its next owner, and is sure to prove a very enjoyable companion with its glorious V12 and open-gate manual gearbox. This is a fine V12, and would be a great addition to any collection.

Summary of maintenance history:

• 1 Dec 2000 – 4,295 km
• 6 Dec 2001 – 5,962 km
• 26 Nov 2002 – 9,478 km
• 6 Oct 2007 – 29,649 km
• 15 Nov 2008 – 30,539 km
• 22 Nov 2010 – 34,000 km
• 26 Jul 2011 – 34,014 km
• 29 Jan 2012 – 34,365 km
• 6 Oct 2012 – 34,978 km
• 3 Mar 2013 – 35,500 km
• 23 Jan 2015 – 37,000 km
• 20 Aug 2015 – 39,964 km
• Date tbc – 40,817 km
• Sep 2018 – 42,619 km

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