The 550 Manarello was Ferrari’s first two-seater, front-engined V12 car since the demise of the 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’ in 1973. Unveiled in 1996 at the Nürburgring circuit in Germany, the Marenello featured a traditional Ferrari recipe: two seats, smooth styling by Pininfarina, a 478hp V12 powerplant sending power to the rear wheels, and the usual melodic exhaust note that is expected from the marque of the Cavallino.

As far as numbers, 0 to 100kmph was done in a smudge under 4 seconds, and top speed was achieved at the 320kmph (199mph) mark. The car’s performance, despite its origins as a grand tourer, earned it some wins at the FIA GT championships from 2001 to 2005.

A few special editions were made on this basis; amongst the most famous ones were the 550 Barchetta (a roadster version) and the 550 GTZ coupé, styled by Zagato.