After nearly three decades of mid-engine flat-12 flagships like the 512 BB and Testarossa, Ferrari returned to its roots in 1996 with the Ferrari 550 Maranello. For the first time since the Daytona, the brand’s flagship GT once again featured a front-mounted V12. It was a bold move that reconnected Ferrari with its grand touring heritage, while delivering modern performance and comfort.
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Ferrari 550 Maranello: A New Classic
The 550 Maranello was named after Ferrari’s hometown of Maranello, symbolizing a return to tradition. Styled by Pininfarina, the car’s long hood, flowing curves, and muscular stance echoed classic Ferrari GTs of the 1960s and 1970s, while offering a distinctly modern aesthetic.
Under the hood, the 550 housed a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 producing 478 horsepower. Paired with a 6-speed gated manual transmission, it delivered a top speed of 199 mph and a 0–60 mph time of around 4.3 seconds. Balanced weight distribution and advanced suspension gave it superb handling, proving that Ferrari could still build a world-class front-engine GT.
Ferrari 575M Maranello: Refinement and Power
In 2002, Ferrari introduced the 575M Maranello (“M” for modificata), an updated version of the 550 that refined the formula even further. The engine was enlarged to 5.75 liters, raising output to 515 horsepower.
The 575M also introduced new technology, including the option of Ferrari’s F1-style automated manual gearbox, making it the first V12 GT to offer paddle-shift control. Subtle styling updates and an upgraded interior gave it a more modern feel, while performance improvements solidified its place as a flagship Ferrari.
Racing Spirit: The 550 GTS & 575 GTC
Though primarily designed as grand tourers, both the 550 and 575 inspired successful racing versions. The 550 GTS and 575 GTC competed in endurance racing, carrying Ferrari’s V12 spirit back onto the track and achieving notable success against rivals.
Legacy of the 550/575 Maranello
The 550 and 575 reestablished the front-engine V12 Ferrari as the ultimate grand tourer. They blended Ferrari’s rich heritage with modern engineering, creating cars that were as comfortable crossing continents as they were dominating racetracks.
Today, the 550 and 575 are highly regarded as modern classics, the perfect bridge between vintage Ferrari GTs and the high-tech models that followed.