The Ferrari 550 Maranello is a well-respected two-seat grand tourer that was introduced in 1996 as an upmarket front-engined V-12 coupe of the type Ferrari had not built since the Daytona. It shared its platform and 5.5-liter, 485-hp engine with the 2+2 456, but was situated as the Italian company's highest-end model. The car utilizes a six-speed transaxle layout. When introduced, the car was reported and road tested as a near 200 miles per hour machine.

Few Straman conversions to the spider (convertible) iteration were done in period, but the quality of work and the beauty of design warranted an article on Straman and his Ferrari transformations in Road & Track magazine in October 1999. Comments on the redesign are often along the line of; “stunning car” or looks incredible – very OEM.” Some say it is the car that Ferrari “should have built.” Of course, it looks good with the top down, but it also has a very appealing style when the top is in a fixed position.

This rousing red with tan leather example is reported to be an excellent running and driving piece of equipment that has been fashioned in a high-quality manner. The top boot is also tan, while the convertible top is black. The Ferrari has been with the same owner for approximately the last 10 years and has been serviced recently. Air conditioning, power conveniences, factory alloy wheels and four-wheel disc brakes are just a few of the superb details that invite you into the legendary Ferrari brand.

It is reported that certain cars, altered in period, are now being admitted to select shows and have been well-received and draw many admirers.