Ferrari 550 Barchetta by Pininfarina 2001 - World Of Classic Cars -

Ferrari 550 Barchetta by Pininfarina 2001

The introduction of Ferrari’s 550 Maranello signaled a return to the company’s roots in the grandest fashion. Ferrari had been without a two-seat, front-engine V-12 coupe since the Daytona was discontinued in the early 1970s. The decision was made to revive the format as a replacement for their aging mid-engine, flat-twelve models. The result was a major improvement over the outgoing 512M in every way, as it boasted better performance, a larger and more comfortable interior, and a trunk and rear parcel shelf that could easily swallow enough luggage for a week-long road trip for two. Devoted customers, recognizing this return to the golden days of the late 1960s, were quick to place their names for an allocation with their local dealer.

Ferrari 550 Barchetta by Pininfarina 2001

Just as with the Daytona, Ferrari knew that a small number of these clients would be keen to purchase an open version of the new model. The Barchetta was first displayed at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, and it featured a shorter, more aggressively raked windshield, two-piece alloy wheels, an aluminum fuel-filler door, and a restyled trunk that was actually larger than that of the coupe. Additionally, all 550 Barchettas were equipped with racing seats, which were optional in the coupe. 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 their customers to have fun in the sun. Only 448 Barchettas were built, and they have become a “core” model for any Ferrari collection that includes recent vintages.

Ferrari 550 Barchetta by Pininfarina 2001

The car shown here, the 372nd Barchetta constructed, is finished in the classic color combination of Rosso Corsa and Beige leather upholstery. It was delivered new to Ferrari of Long Island in Glen Cove, New York, and was eventually acquired by its present owner, a Canadian enthusiast. Service records on file from Ferrari of Quebec show that the car was fitted with a Tubi exhaust in October 2009, and its timing belts were replaced prior to the service.
Of the modern front-engine Ferrari V-12s, the convertible offerings have always been the most desirable to enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. The 550 Barchetta offers even more exclusivity, as it provides its passengers the opportunity to hear it’s V-12 at full song with the wind flowing through their hair. It harkens back to the convertible sports racers of Ferrari’s early days, yet it still offers all the conveniences and luxuries expected in a modern automobile.