Ferrari’s 550 Maranello, the vaunted 365 GTB/4 Daytona’s spiritual successor, proved to be a huge success for the company, bringing it back to its roots of making fast and exciting grand tourers that looked as good as they performed. Perfect for crossing continents at high speeds, the 550 Maranello had no problems doing so while cossetting its driver and passenger, and leaving plenty of room for luggage in the boot and on the rear parcel shelf.

Just five years after that car’s introduction, Ferrari unveiled the 575M Maranello, which offered a range of upgrades over its predecessor. The reason for change in nomenclature was because of the change in displacement of the car’s V-12 engine, which was increased by 250 cubic centimetres to 5,748 cubic centimetres, hence the designation of 575. This helped to raise horsepower to 540 brake horsepower and gave the car an incredible top speed of 202 mph. At the same time, larger brakes were fitted to help reign in the speed. Weight distribution was improved to an even 50/50 and helped to improve the car’s already exceptional handling. While the six-speed manual (as seen in the 550 Maranello) remained, buyers could now opt to equip their 575M Maranello with Ferrari’s new F1-style transmission, which proved to be a hugely popular option.

Equipped with the six-speed F1 transmission, this particular 575M Maranello is a highly compelling example, thanks not only to being a right-hand-drive example and delivered new to the United Kingdom, but also because of its stunning and seldom seen colour combination of Verde Zeltweg over a Beige interior. In 2004, it was upgraded with the desirable Fiorano Handling Package by Maranello Sales Ltd. in Surrey, and a year later, it received a highly regarded Tubi exhaust system. During this ownership, it was mostly maintained by Maranello and Graypaul, with bills totalling £15,810.

Acquired by Mr Carter from its original owner in 2011, the car currently has just under 16,500 miles on its odometer. During the period of Mr Carter’s ownership, Meridien Modena maintained this 575 with scant regard to cost, incurring bills totalling £22,929. It is unlikely that there is another 575 available today which has been cared for with the same level of maintenance, and its condition is a testament to this. Furthermore, it is accompanied by a proper tool kit, a three-piece luggage set, and a file of service invoices from throughout its life.

For the British owner looking to enjoy a Ferrari at speed and on long journeys, this 575M is perhaps the perfect example. Finished in a gorgeous and very rare colour combination, it would be perfect for flying under the radar on the motorways and backroads, but would certainly elicit many favourable comments from Ferrari connoisseurs and true enthusiasts.