Fantasy Junction

Description

1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello
VIN: ZFFZR49A3W0113144
Black with Black Leather

Introduced as the flagship of the Ferrari line in 1996, the Maranello replaced a long line of mid-engine cars that began with the Berlinetta Boxer and advanced to the Testarossa. Designed to capture the glory days of Ferrari’s legendary front-engine sports cars (most notably the 275GTG and 365 GTB/Daytona), the Maranello arrived to the eager public who welcomed it as a universally beautiful car. The Pininfarina styling evoked all the grace and muscularity of the legendary Ferraris without becoming overstated. The clean and beautifully proportioned body draped over the 485 hp V12 engine and 6-speed transaxle created a delightful harmony of power and grace.

This particular Maranello is a low mile black on black example which is current on its major belt service, having had a full service and more in December of 2014 by F&M MotorSport (Los Angeles, California) less than 500 miles ago (at 13,648 miles). It is complete with books, tools, records, and is fitted with a Tubi exhaust system, which allows just a bit more performance from the already potent engine while delivering wonderful V12 sounds. This three-owner car was originally delivered to Ferrari of Beverly Hills and subsequently has been thoughtfully maintained throughout the ownership history. The front of the car has a professionally installed clear bra that covers the hood, the front bumper, front fenders entirely, headlight lenses, side mirrors, and the splash apron.

Cosmetically, this Maranello is in very fine condition as evidenced by the 13,900 miles it has covered since new. The tinted glass and gloss black paint are beautifully united, creating a lithe but commanding effect to the overall shape of the car. The paint is in very nice condition with excellent gloss throughout and no notable marks or dings of significance aside from a few very minor nicks in the film, due to road use. The glass and all lighting are in excellent condition throughout. Both doors, hood, and trunk all open and shut with confidence. The wheels are in excellent condition and feature red brake calipers. One rear wheel is slightly marked on the bead edge and the other rear wheel slightly marked along the rim edge. Having been refinished, the front spoiler lip underside is in excellent condition with very light scratching only.

The interior of the car is in particularly nice condition. As it was updated by F&N MotorSports with the “Sticky-No-More” treatment in February of 2014, there is no “tacky” or sticky finish to the switchgear or leather surfaces, which one often finds on these cars. The leather is supple and smooth with excellent surfacing and no marks of note. The leather portion of the dash has been replaced with proper material, due to shrinkage that typically occurs with this series dash. Instruments and switches are all in excellent condition. The driver’s seat has very minor wear on the seat bolster, however all other leather surfaces including the headliner, center console, door panels, visors, and pillars are all in excellent condition. Even the center console remains free from rippling, which is often evident in these cars. In all, the interior is handsome and fresh with excellent fit and finish befitting a car of this stature. The trunk area remains fresh and consistent with the rest of the interior. Clearly the three previous owners have maintained this Maranello with proper care and enthusiastic consideration.

The engine and drivetrain overall are in excellent condition, and the car is current on its major service requirements. Dino Motors performed an inspection (March 2015), where it was compression tested with all cylinders reported to be at 180. Records on file illustrate annual services, and other documentation on file tells us that an earlier major belt service was performed by Ferrari & Maserati of Orange County with 8,800 miles recorded on the receipt. The car drives and shifts beautifully with no hesitation in power and smooth gate action through all gears. The overall look and feel of this car is consistent with the 13,900 miles it has covered over the years. Cosmetically the engine remains in very nice condition with all factory finishes showing very nicely. Undercarriage is clean and dry with no significant road rash showing on any of the aerodynamic chassis shields or surrounding components. The Ferrari tool set, manual packet (with leather cover), and records accompany the car.

This is a very fine and desirable Maranello, presented with beautifully maintained finishes, ready to drive and enjoy. Known history and low miles further validate the history and care. The supple leather interior with matching stunning black exterior make this 550 Ferrari a captivating and desirable union of grace and power. Maranellos in 6-speed configuration appeal to the investment-minded Ferrari enthusiast who desires timeless styling in a package with modern amenities and engaging performance. The few extraordinary examples available are those which are likely to enjoy the most investment opportunity moving forward.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608