The Ferrari 550 and 575 heralded the revival of the golden age of the front-engined V12 Ferrari, after a long absence since the 365 GTB/4 Daytona. The logical successor of the 575, the 599 GTB ‘Fiorano’, debuted in the 2006 Geneva Motor Show as a 2007 model, and took its nomenclature from its engine displacement of 5.99 litres.
Conceived as a grand tourer, the 599 GTB did not skimp on performance: the timing-chain V12 made over 600bhp, and took the heavy coupe from 0 to 100kmph in 3.7 seconds, to a top speed over 330kmph. Numerous advances in aerodynamics (hence the interesting buttresses in the back), a gearbox developed with F1 technology, magnetorheological suspension, and an advance aluminium chassis, contributed to the 599 GTB’s sophisticated road manners. A perfect ‘everyday Ferrari’, the 599 is also easier on maintenance than its predecessors and mid-engine counterparts, not requiring complex timing belt changes that often times require full engine removal.
This three-owner 599 GTB was first delivered in late 2006 to Ferrari racing driver Felipe Massa through Ferrari SpA. After Massa’s ownership, it was sold to a French collector and later taken to Dubai by the owner of a racing team. Finished in Grigio Silverstone over black leather, it has benefited from a recent service at Ferrari Dubai.