485 bhp, 5,474 cc alloy V-12 engine with twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank, four valves per cylinder, Bosch Motronic 5.2 electronic fuel injection and dry-sump oiling, six-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension with anti-roll bars, and Brembo four-wheel ventilated hydraulic disc brakes with ABS. Wheelbase: 2,500 mm (98.4")

• Fewer than 22,000 miles and just three owners from new

• Full service history from new

• The spiritual successor to the 365 GTB/4 Daytona of the early 1970s

Introduced at the Nürburgring in 1996, Ferrari’s new 550 Maranello replaced the outgoing F512 M, heralding Ferrari’s return to the front-engine V-12 coupé layout, one that had not been seen since the days of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona. Although, based on the longer 456, whose engine it shared, the 550 Maranello was distinctly upmarket, and whilst strictly a two-seater, it also offered spacious and luxurious interior appointments, with plenty of room for luggage, in the best Ferrari “grand touring” tradition.

Its rear-mounted, six-speed manual transaxle gave better weight distribution, as well as improved traction for the front-engine, rear-drive chassis, effectively silencing the critics who incorrectly believed that the mid-engine layout was the only route to ‘supercar’ performance levels. Obsessive attention to aerodynamics resulted in a startlingly low 0.33 drag coefficient and impressive downforce. The result was most satisfying, with the 550 Maranello capable of nudging 200 mph at the top end and providing a dramatically quick 4.2-second sprint from rest to 60 mph. In fact, during October 1998, a 550 Maranello set a new production car speed record at Marysville, Ohio, where it travelled 100 km (62 miles) at an average speed of 188.88 mph, covering a distance of 183.955 miles in one hour’s time.

With just three owners from new, including the current and highly discerning owner/collector, this original right-hand drive example has covered fewer than 22,000 miles. Handsomely finished in black over cream, it is equipped with a desirable and optional high-performance exhaust system and accompanied by full service history. Breathtakingly fast, nicely appointed and beautifully styled, it is a more than worthy spiritual successor to the 365 GTB/4 Daytona of the early-1970s.