The introduction of Ferrari’s 550 Maranello signalled a return to the company’s roots in the grandest fashion. Ferrari had been without a two-seat, front-engine V-12 coupé since the Daytona. The decision was made to revive the format as a replacement for Ferrari’s mid-engine, flat-12 models. The result was an improvement over the outgoing F512 M, as it boasted superior performance, a larger and more comfortable interior, and a boot that could easily hold enough luggage for a week-long road trip for two.

Just as with the iconic Daytona, Ferrari knew that a small number of its clients would be keen to purchase a much more exclusive, limited-run, open version of the new model. The 550 Barchetta was first displayed at the 2000 Paris Motor Show; it featured a shorter, more aggressively raked windshield, two-piece alloy wheels, an aluminium fuel-filler cap, and a restyled boot that was, surprisingly, larger than that of the coupé. Additionally, all 550 Barchettas were equipped with racing seats, which were optional in the coupé. Unlike the Daytona Spider of old, the Barchetta was a true roadster, as it was equipped with a soft-top substantial enough only for low-speed use—Ferrari’s way of enticing its customers to have fun in the sun. Only 448 examples were built, making them incredibly desirable not only to those with a Ferrari collection that includes recent vintages, but also to those who appreciate the sonorous V-12 engine up front accompanied by superb handling.

A rare example of this limited-run special, the car offered here is number 140 of those 448 examples. It is presented in as-new condition in its extremely desirable Grigio Alloy over Nero colour scheme and has travelled just 743 kilometres since it was delivered to its first owner in 2001. In addition, it has been fastidiously maintained throughout its life regardless of the short distance it has travelled, and it is offered with a detailed history file. Previously owned by a director of Ferrari, its stablemates included an F40, F50, and Enzo. This wonderful 550 Barchetta is accompanied by its original books, tools, and convertible top, as well as its helmets and cover.

Recently serviced by Motor of Modena, where it has been looked after all its life, including the most recent service carried out in November 2015, this stunning Barchetta represents a fine opportunity to acquire a limited-production yet usable modern Ferrari model, which has become increasingly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts. With its desirable manual gearbox and enchanting V-12 engine, the 550 Barchetta could be considered the pinnacle of modern, open-air Ferraris.