Prior to 2010, there had only been two cars in the Ferrari bloodline to be decorated with the revered “Gran Turismo Omologato” badge: the 250 GTO of 1962 and 288 GTO of 1984. Such is their collective, accumulated reputation that neither model requires a flowery introduction. Put simply, the GTO name is the loftiest and most closely guarded within Ferrari’s web of intellectual property. Its exclusive use is indicative of the level of excellence that Maranello’s engineers feel is reserved for the marque’s most sublime, timeless, and sought-after creations. The 599 GTO, announced in the spring of 2010, resurrected these three most important letters in Ferrari parlance.

Being the road-homologated version of the 599XX prototype, the 599 GTO was the direct beneficiary of Ferrari F1 engineering and racing development. As such, it received advancements in aerodynamics and a finely tuned chassis that maximized responsiveness. The state-of-the-art 599 GTO boasted performance credentials all its own, rightfully earning its three-letter badge and asserting its superiority over the contemporaneous 599 GTB.

The GTO’s “Tipo 140” V-12 produced 12 percent less internal friction than the standard 599 GTB engine, courtesy of re-coated tappets, “superfinished” cam lobes, re-profiled crankshaft weights, and redesigned piston skirts. The headline figures were dramatic improvements over the GTB: 670 horsepower at 8,250 rpm, up from 620 horsepower at 7,600 rpm. These mechanical improvements were then coupled with similarly extensive electronic advances; the gearbox was improved to deliver shifts in 60 milliseconds, 40 milliseconds quicker than the GTB’s, whilst second-generation magnetically adjustable dampers and the latest “F1-Trac” traction control provided superlative driving involvement and extreme responsiveness to driver inputs.

The red manettino, or “little switch,” on the steering wheel helped maximize the newfound performance dividends with five settings offering varying ranges of computer-administered throttle, transmission, and traction control, while special funnels piped the sonorous engine note into the cabin for a front-row experience of the V-12’s harmonious symphony of sounds.

The 599 GTO further benefited from a radical diet, which altogether shaved 220 pounds from its pre-production GTB curb weight. A single-piece hydroformed exhaust manifold was used, thinner windows were installed alongside an aluminum trunk lid and second-generation carbon-ceramic disc brakes at each corner, featuring carbon pads for the first time. On the inside, excess carpeting was stripped out and carbon-fiber-backed seats installed.

Compared to the Ferrari Enzo, the 599 GTO is more subtle and sophisticated, yet also faster and sharper. Ferrari at the time called the 599 GTO its “most extreme sports car,” and the company admitted that it could lap the company’s Fiorano test track a full second faster than the Enzo.

With just 125 examples earmarked for the United States, this model has enjoyed the status of an instant collectible since new, claiming a unique perch within the company’s celebrated supercar lineage.

NEW ARGENTO NURBURGRING 599 GTO

Finished in the alluring shade of New Argento Nürburgring (PPG 26669) over a black full-Alcantara interior featuring carbon trim and special stitching, this handsomely specified 599 GTO is further enriched with Scuderia fender shields, a white-faced tachometer, black racing stripes, full-power electric seats, and a Bose audio system. Additional notable options listed on its accompanying window sticker include a set of aluminum-colored brake calipers, a Handly-branded fire extinguisher, carbon fiber trim on the door sills and rear bench, as well as another $10,500 in unlisted “special options.”

This 599 GTO was completed at Ferrari’s Maranello factory and immediately certified by Ferrari Classiche in October 2010. Subsequently delivered new to Boardwalk Ferrari of Plano, Texas, it has resided exclusively within that state, always cared for and enjoyed by fervid enthusiast-owners.

The consignor purchased the car from Ferrari of Houston in November 2016, then indicating just 2,287 actual miles. Maintenance invoices on file show it has been regularly and exclusively cared for by that same dealer over the past eight years. Within the last 200 miles, Ferrari of Houston completed a routine “Two Year Major” service regimen, fitted a new set of Michelin Pilot Sport tires, and replaced both struts for the car’s trunk lid.

Presented today showing just under 3,175 actual miles at the time of cataloguing, this exceptional and uniquely optioned 599 GTO is offered with manuals, tools, service invoices, Red Book from Ferrari Classiche, and a copy of its original window sticker.

The 599 GTO is as versatile as it is desirable, able to hold its own on any circuit, whilst equally capable of whisking two occupants and their luggage over great distances with ease. Fast becoming a modern-day collectible, this superb, low-mileage example will wow even the most discerning Ferraristi.