The culture of Ferrari today is one of technological prowess and advancement. Every new model that rolls out of those famed factory doors is a modern marvel. They are designed to deliver performance and joy in equal measure, but Ferraris still have a purpose as old as those distant hills that surround Italy’s Supercar Valley: to be fast.
This technological coup really began back in 2003 with the Ferrari Enzo. But until then, Ferrari still channelled its old-school spirit into every car it made.
None more so than the Ferrari 550 Maranello – the last old school V12 front-engined coupe.
The 550 bridged the gap between the high technology spirit of Ferrari today, with the rich traditions and engineering know-how of the company’s past.
Subsequently the 550 Maranello – a car that seemed to be destined to be lost underneath the seat cushions of Ferrari’s metaphorical and predictably red sofa – represents a sweet spot that is undeniable.
Both modern and yet a product of the past. The 550 Maranello is the last truly classic Ferrari.
The specification of the 550 Maranello is automotive perfection.
It is a gentler car from a gentler age. Subsequently it represents everything that we, as car enthusiasts, cherish. Every one of its features and quirks is merely a modern representation of what you would find back in the 1960s.
From every angle it looks the part.
The modest bonnet scoop. The shark gills on the flanks. The tapered rear end with small rear lights. It is an elegant design which in retrospect has aged very well.
The 550, apart from its larger overall length and width, is only some chrome bumpers and wire wheels away from looking like an old Ferrari of the 1960s.
The 550 Maranello never took itself too seriously, and it is a greater car for it.
The problem with championing technology such as ever faster gearboxes, and more sophisticated traction control systems is that this pursuit inevitably opens you up to criticism. By boasting about the speed of your gearbox, you risk looking foolish when that ‘supposedly great’ piece of technology is inevitably surpassed.
But, by championing the techniques and technology that has been around for decades, you instead add to the existing mythology of this equipment. Manual gearboxes are not considered ‘great’ due to the speed at which they can be operated, but through feel – a far more subjective and theoretical consideration.
That is why the gated Ferrari manual gearbox is considered so good. Not because it has fast shift – ask any 17 year old with a Vauxhall Corsa about fast gear changes – but because it feels amazing and looks absolutely stunning.
Sometimes technology can distract from the bigger picture. And sometimes it’s better to stop and smell the flowers.
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