One to Buy: 1 owner Giallo Modena 2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta
A little over four years after the critically acclaimed 550 Maranello had burst onto the scene, Ferrari introduced an open top version at the Paris Motor Show in September 2000.
However, instead of creating a straightforward convertible version of the fixed head model in a similar mould to the 360 Spider launched six months prior, the appropriately titled 550 Barchetta was more akin to a thoroughbred Italian Porsche Speedster.
The Barchetta moniker was adopted to reflect the new limited edition Ferrari’s uncompromising nature; it featured a cut-down windscreen and leather-covered rollover hoops behind which streamlined elements were added to the otherwise flattened rear deck. A flimsy manually operated canvas hood was supplied but only recommended for emergency use.
550 Barchetta production was restricted to just 448 units, all of which were pre-sold to existing Ferrari customers. Number 323 from that limited run is currently on offer at the Grand Prix Classics showroom in La Jolla, California.
One of a reputed 20-or-so Barchettas finished in the fetching combination of Giallo Modena with Nero leather upholstery, chassis ‘124301’ is a US market derivative that has been in the care of just one owner since new. The car has covered a little over 17,000 miles and comes complete with a fully documented service history along with Ferrari Classiche certification that confirms its matching numbers status.
Here at Supercar Nostalgia, we think these 550 Barchettas rank among the most desirable Ferraris of the 21st century and this looks to be a particularly fine example.
Reprinted below is Grand Prix Classics’ description:
VIN: ZFFZR52A310124301
Miles: 17,050
Color: Giallo Modena (Yellow)
Interior: Nero (Black)
Number: 323 of 448
History: A USA model with only 17,050 miles, in the very rare color of Giallo Yellow, with black interior. Just one caring, meticulous owner from new.
Description: The 2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta is a limited-edition, open-top sports car with a V12 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. It was designed by Pininfarina and produced to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Pininfarina company.
Aerodynamic Design: The Barchetta has a raked windshield, functional rollover hoops, and a reshaped tail.
Engine: The 5.5L V12 engine produces 478 horsepower and 420 lb ft of torque.
Performance: 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph.
Soft Top: In the traditional Roadster style, minimalist design.
Racing Seats: All 550 Barchettas come with racing seats, which were optional in the coupe.
Trunk: The Barchetta has a larger trunk than thecoupe.
Wheels: The Barchetta has two-piece alloy wheels.
Production: Only 448 cars were built.
Giallo: Approximately 20 examples were finished in Giallo Modena (yellow).
Accessories:
2 Car Keys
1 Soft Top
1 Battery Charger
1 Tire Inflator
1 Car Cover, 2 Seat Covers,1 Steering Wheel Cover in Red Bag
2 Red Leather Hats
1 Battery Flashlight
2 Keith Collins Floor Mats
1 Tool Kit
1 Owner’s Manual with Pouch
1 Trunk liner
1 Classiche Red Book
1 Dom Perignon Team Sticker
