Ferrari’s most famous road cars have always been those with a front-mounted V-12 and rear-wheel drive. From the company’s earliest creations to the conclusion of production of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona in 1973, they were renowned for their reputation of creating the world’s finest grand touring sports coupes. These cars were equally comfortable being put through their paces on a race track as they were crossing continents at high speed with a trunk full of luggage.

In 1996, Ferrari introduced the 550 Maranello in a bid to revive their fabled line of grand tourers, and it quickly proved to be an overwhelming success. Six years later, in 2002, they introduced the 575M Maranello, which brought with it a host of healthy updates, making an incredible car even more potent. Increasing the displacement of the V-12 by 250 cubic centimeters, resulting in a total of 5,748 cubic centimeters, also brought a healthy increase in power and torque, resulting in a top speed of 202 mph. The front end was revised with updated headlights and a restyled air intake and front spoiler. Weight distribution was improved to 50/50. Buyers also had the opportunity to outfit their new car with an F1-style gearbox, which proved to be a very popular option. To help handle the increased performance, the 575M was also fitted with larger disc brakes. Inside, the interior was modernized and refreshed with an updated dashboard, trim, and steering wheel, among other minor updates.

Although the vast majority of buyers opted to outfit their 575M Maranello with the F1-style transmission, a handful of enthusiasts could not resist the siren call of a traditional six-speed gated manual transmission. Such is the case with the 575M Maranello offered here. It was delivered to Cauley Ferrari in West Bloomfield, Michigan, in May 2002 and was sold to the first owner the following month, outfitted in the very attractive color combination of Blue Tour de France over a cuoio interior. The Ferrari was then acquired by the second owner in 2008 and imported to Canada, where it was sold to its third owner in November 2009. The previous owner purchased the 575M in the spring of 2013, where it was maintained in his prominent collection. The car is currently fitted with an aftermarket exhaust system, though the original set is included with the car. Furthermore, the Ferrari retains its original books and pouch, tool set, spare keys, and Ferrari car cover. In excellent condition throughout, the 575M has only been driven 4,511 miles since new.

The 575M Maranello quickly proved to be an excellent update to the 550, and it is a very worthy spiritual successor to the Daytona. Capable of reaching a top speed of just over 200 mph and with enough luggage space for two for a weekend getaway, these are grand touring cars in the finest sense. Truly a very special example fitted with the rare six-speed manual transmission, this 575M would be a worthy addition to any collection as a future collectible or thrilling weekend driver.