Category Archives: Ferrari

Ferrari

1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

The Dino was a turning point in the history of Ferrari. Named after Enzo Ferrari's late son Alfredo (whose nickname was Alfredino), this nameplate was meant to brand a whole new variety of Ferraris, namely those without 12 cylinder engines. The 246 nameplate in this case represents the engine capacity and number of cylinders, in this case a 2.4 liter V6. Creating 175 horsepower in US trim, this engine would also see service in the Fiat Dino and Lancia Stratos. The Dino was Ferrari's best selling model up until this point and are highly sought after by collectors. This car represents the first year the Dino was available with a removable roof and while not a perfect example, has potential.

1972 Ferrari Dino GTS

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First a little history. This US spec car was manufactured in June of 1972 and first registered in late December of that year. The odometer show 48229 miles and that is accurate. It has been under the same ownership since 1975 (second owner) and is now being offered for sale by the family trust. It has the original “Pink slip” and retains the original blue plates, last being registered in California in 2005. When purchased the car was yellow and the owner had an extensive color change performed in the late 70’s. The car was maintained well, used sparingly but regularly until it was put into storage 5 years ago. It was garaged and only used in good weather never having the top fitted. It is in decent running condition but does need some work and it has some details that are not correct.

Now the good points. It is a California car that does not appear to have any rust or rust repairs. The body is generally in very good condition and shows no signs of having been in a significant collision. The paint is no longer perfect but at first glance it looks stunning. The doors both open easily and close with sweet light click. The gaps and panel fit are very good all over. Glass is in very good shape, no scratches or chips; all the chrome has a deep luster. The electric windows function well. The interior is clean and looks mostly original although the seats may have been re-upholstered. The grey carpet is in good order and overall there is not a lot of sun damage showing the car was not left outside.

The car starts, runs and drives well the clutch being light and the gears shifting nicely, even when cold. The engine does not knock or have any other unwanted noises. It also does not smoke excessively and indicates 85lbs on the oil pressure gauge at 5000 rpm hot. There does not seem to be any overheating issues, although it has only been driven sparingly and local since coming out of storage. On the road the engine sounds great, having decent power and dropping to a fairly low idle once warm. The gauges all function with the fuel gauge being a bit intermittent may have a sticking sender unit. The brakes pull the car up straight without any fuss and there is no unwanted noise from the suspension. The hand brake holds firmly and is adjusted correctly. The steering feels light and precise; I think one of the nicer points of these cars.

Now the negatives, The paint has been spot repaired in places, the two most obvious being an area about the size of a dinner plate on the top of the right front fender that was caused from a bicycle falling on it. The second area is a round patch the size of tennis ball on the bonnet. There is evidence of minor accident damage on the left front fender extending back onto the door. There is an area in the wheel well where the tire has just kissed the fiberglass panel and rubbed the paint off – see pictures. There are a number of small chips and imperfections some that have been touched up and some not. The front shows some larger nicks, I think evident in the pictures and under the front there are a couple of dents under the bumpers and the lower panel has been damaged from parking mishaps. There is a small indentation in the top of the driver’s door that could probably be taken out by a good dent removal guy.

The interior door panels are a little tired and the door shut panels have been chrome plated, not left body colour as stock. The interior mirror is misty and the quarter lights (windings) are missing their catches. The heater fan switch is missing its plastic pad and the choke lever (never used) appears to be stuck. The AC fans operate but do not produce cold air and the heater is unresponsive. The wipers, washers and indicators do not function, possibly a fuse?

The engine burbles badly on de-acceleration possibly due to some missing emission equipment, diverter valve, ignition retard unit. It also does not have its carbon canister. It does have the air cleaner assembly, although not fitted in the pictures. There is also the odd spitting from the carbs at and just above, idle, obviously after sitting so long it needs a good tune-up. The engine does not have a bad misfire. It has had a non-standard fuse box fitted to the rear bulkhead along with some new insulation. The engine compression was checked and number 2 cylinder has a lower compression than the others and on further inspection, doing a leak down test it appears that the exhaust valve on that cylinder is not seating properly. It could settle down with driving more or of course it could get worse! First gear synchro is a little unforgiving unless you are going very slowly, but all the other gears including second (a common problem) are excellent. There are some oil leaks, causing a little smoke at a stop as it contacts the exhaust. Obviously after sitting as long as it has I would recommend replacing the fuel and cooling system hoses and some of the rubber mounts and bushings are reaching the end of their life. The steering rack shows some wear, a common problem I am told. The solid state fuel pump needs to be mounted better and the hoses secured.

So that is the full story on this car, not perfect but still a beautiful head turning classic Ferrari that will continue to appreciate. It is a very honest car with a known history, quite a local celebrity in fact.

Dinos in average condition tend to run anywhere in the $125,000 to $150,000 range. Mint, concours examples will reach closer to the $200,000 mark. The seller seems a bit optimistic, given bidding has reached $145,000 without the reserve being met. There are a number of odds and ends that need attention here. If one could procure this Dino at around $100,000 to $115,000, it would be a good buy for the enthusiast looking to tackle a bit of light restoration work and, once it is over, have a classic Ferrari that one wouldn't be afraid to use.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1983 Ferrari 400i

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Having never been sold in the United States, the Ferrari 400i is a bit of a rare sight on these roads. A few made their way across the Atlantic, but in the era of the Testarossa and 308/328, these touring coupes were a bit outshone by their stablemates. They were also derided in the motoring press at times, with Jeremy Clarkson noting that it was "awful in every way." The fact that the 400i was sandwiched in Ferrari history between some great 2+2 touring coupes and the attractive, more powerful 456GT of the 1990s didn't help its cause, either. While many of these coupes had the GM sourced 3 speed automatic, this particular 400i for sale has the desirable 5-speed manual transmission.

1983 Ferrari 400i

Electrically adjustable mirrors, tinted glass, electric front windows, rear window defroster. Very beautiful and original Ferrari 400i! A manual version with a 315-hp V12. Perfect power and shifting. Equipped with a very nice beige leather interior. This is certainly one of the better examples!

This is the car that time forgot, and even 23 years since the last 412 was manufactured (the 400i's successor), collectors still have not warmed up to these cars. This fact is reflected in values, as average examples change hands in the $20,000 to $40,000 range on a regular basis. This example is on the high side, at close to $50,000. The manual gearbox and sublime color no doubt makes this car more attractive, but it seems to be a tad bit overvalued, given the mileage of 60,000. That's not particular high for an almost 30 year old car, but it is high for most Ferraris.

-Paul

Ferrari

1990 Ferrari F40

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In a world where Cadillac sedans are hitting 60 miles an hour in under 4.0 seconds, a car like the Ferrari F40 may seem insignificant. This would be a gross misunderstanding. Sheer speed isn't everything this car is about. It's about the delivery, the theater and the engineering. In the mid 1980s, Ferrari set out to create a successor to the 288GTO. Their sights were aimed squarely on the Porsche 959 in FIA Group B. After Group B came to a halt in 1986, this left Ferrari with a partially developed supercar with no race series in which to field it. Nevertheless, the F40 bowed in 1987, powered by a 2.9 liter, twin turbocharged V8 producing 471 horsepower with 16 psi of boost.

Accompanying the impressive powerplant was a body constructed of revolutionary materials, such as carbon fiber, kevlar and alumninum. Along with sparse interior accoutrements, this led to a low curb weight of 2,400 lbs. As a result, this car could reach 100 mph in about 7.5 seconds and could power on all the way to 201 mph, the first road legal production vehicle to break the 200 mph barrier. It isn't everyday an F40 comes up for sale, and this US spec example for sale in New Orleans is in impressive condition.

1990 Ferrari F40

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1990 Ferrari F40. 6,700 miles. Fully Serviced. Books, tools, records. In February 2012, this F40 completed a full service; mileage at end of service and current is 6699 miles. This F40 has all of original body parts, The paint is glossy and the body has no defects. The interior is clean and has no blemishes. The car is mechanical sound and the engine compartment has no fluid leaks. The tires are the proper size and match. A clean title.

We bought this pristine F40 from the private collection of the 1st owner in 2004 with 800 miles. The AutoCheck history report is described as having a mileage discrepancy in 2004. This is a erroneously report, The car was in the possession of Ferrari at the time of the alleged discrepancy and did not have a odometer repair, replaced or malfunction. Included with all records are documents from Ferrari stating and declaring the mileage on the car was correct mileage with no discrepancy.

Last year, Gooding & Company sold a US Spec F40 for $495,000 in Scottsdale. In 2008, a similar F40, albeit with a very low 712 miles, sold for $735,000 at the R&M Auctions Monterey Preview. The asking price of this example is in the ballpark. While these cars are impressive on their own technical merit, an overarching fact about the F40 is that it was the very last Ferrari to be commissioned by Enzo Ferrari before his death in August 1988. With this car, the old man went out on a high note.

As Jeremy Clarkson so eloquently put it in the following clip, this just isn't a supercar, it is the supercar.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1993 Ferrari 348 Series Speciale

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The Ferrari 348 reminds me of the series 996 Porsche 911. It came between two legendary models and is often overlooked by enthusiasts. The 348 was the successor to the successful 308/328 and the predecessor to the F355, which is fast becoming a modern classic in the truest sense. The 348 had an unusually short lifespan for a Ferrari of just six years. It was enough time to see a few special variants come along, including the car you see here for sale: the 348 Series Speciale. Only 100 units of this car was produced in TB and TS variants. Limited for sale to the US market, this edition had a higher horsepower motor (312 horsepower), revised tail lamps and a bigger front spoiler. The rear track was also widened by 25 millimeters. Fifteen units were made with Kevlar sport seats and this is one of them.

1993 Ferrari 348 Series Speciale

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1993 black/tan interior. 50,500 miles, engine out service was done January 2011 at 48,000 miles. New nuvolari exhaust, new cam belts and hill engineering tensioners, new front cover bearings, oil pump and timing chain tension blocks, waterpump rebuilt, new rear glass, valve covers powder coated red, new gaskets, ss brake lines, degree camshafts, Mobil 1, Red Line gear oil in trans, new ignition wires, new coil packs, rebuilt alternator, car at this time is registered and inspected, car sounds great drives great.

The mileage on this Ferrari is a bit higher than what we are used to seeing on these models, particularly on a rare edition such as this. This is a lot of exclusivity for the money, and with a recent servicing last year, one should be good for a few more thousand miles. All things being equal, this is a good price of entry for a modern day Ferrari and allows one to set aside funds for the next major servicing.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2001 Ferrari 456M GT

In the past decade, an alarming trend has taken hold with Italian supercars: the death of the traditional manual gearbox. Sure, more often than not the new automated manual gearboxes are more efficient in terms of performance and economy, but I can't help shed a tear contemplating the lack of involvement versus having a car with three pedals. The only new Ferrari you can buy with a proper manual gearbox is the California, and who knows how long that variant of their hardtop convertible will stick around for. I miss the old Ferrari, specifically, the impressive Gran Touring coupes that used to emerge from Maranello. The 456 was an impressive machine; the first front engined V12 Ferrari sold in the US since the 1970s. Most were equipped with a GM 4 speed automatic, but a few were sold in this market with a proper 6 speed manual. This car is one of them.

2001 Ferrari 456M GT

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2001 Ferrari 456M GT. One of only 688 456M GT built, very hard to find 6-speed, absolutely impeccable. Black With Crème Connolly leather interior, books & records, toolkit and Ferrari cover. 30K service done at Ferrari dealership to the tune of $16,279.98 in 2011. New belts, new clutch, new radiator, new alternator, new Michelin Pilots, stainless steel Tubi exhaust, brand new leather dashboard!

Original paint, stunning condition. Original MSRP Of $226,964.00. Clean carfax, no stories. You probably won't find a nicer one. The name 456 is derived from the fact that each cylinder displaces 456 cubic centimeters. The Modificata 456 M appeared in 1998, starting with chassis number 109589. Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) was just 5.2 seconds. Many changes were made to improve aerodynamics and cooling, and the interior. The undercarriage spoiler on the 456 M is fixed, where the older 456 had a motorized spoiler that began its deployment above 105 km/h (65 mph).

Power was up slightly on the Modificata now using Bosch Motronic 5.2 engine management at 448 hp. The firing pattern was changed for smoother running, and the torque remained the same for later versions of the 456 GT. Despite its supercar performance, the 456 has a relatively unstressed engine, which has proven to be a very reliable unit. The chassis is a tubular steel spaceframe construction with a one-piece composite bonnet and body panels of aluminium. VIN# ZFFWL44A910125402.

An under $60,000 asking price is very tempting for so much Ferrari goodness. The recent service is encouraging but keep in mind that Ferrari services come up often and they are expensive. Therefore, a $60,000 Ferrari could turn into an $80,000 one in a heartbeat. Still, it is nice to dream and this is a fine example of a true gentleman's express.

-Paul

Ferrari

1982 Ferrari 308GTS

The Ferrari 308 needs no introduction here at CICFS, as it is one of the most iconic Italian vehicles of the 1980s. It's performance, arresting wedge shape and sonorous V8 are still revered by Ferrari Tifosi and enthusiasts across the automotive spectrum alike. Recent values have been dipping into the range where these cars are more accessible to a wider audience. However, given this, one must approach with caution to make sure their investment doesn't go up in smoke, literally. Here is a nice, original example for sale in California with slightly higher than average mileage but looking every bit as radiant as it did when new.

1982 Ferrari 308GTS

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Up for your consideration: A very rare and beautiful Farrari 308 GTS in perfect condition inside and out, this car has all of the origional tools, extra belts and fuses as well as a brand new Farrari car cover that is micro fiber on the inside to prevent scratches. This is truley a amazing car, always garage kept and always serviced by Gary Bobilef motor cars.

I almost can't believe a car this striking is 30 years old, especially given the condition of this example. The buy it now price of $33,500 is squarely in BMW 1 series territory, and it's remarkable that something this exotic could be had for such a low price of entry. The owner sounds as if he has taken good care of it, but it would be wise to look over service records before signing on the dotted line. Also, a recent service would go a long way towards making this an even better value. If you want to try your hand at your best Magnum P.I. impression, here's your chance.

-Paul

Ferrari

1984 Ferrari 512 BBi

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With the arrival of the Lamborghini Miura in 1966, Ferrari suddenly had a problem on its hands. Its lineup consisted of front engined V12 sports cars and while the mid-engined Dino arrived one year later, it packed half the number of cylinders as the V12 Miura. At the end of the Miura's life, a new mid-engined Ferrari appeared, the 365 GT4 BB. The "BB" was short for Berlinetta Boxer, a reference to the new 12 cylinder engine. While not a true horizontally opposed engine, you could almost call it that, as the angle between the cylinder heads was 180 degrees. The 365 GT4 begat the 512 BB and fuel injected 512 BBi, which gave way in 1984 to the well-known Testarossa. The Berlinetta Boxer was never sold new in the United States, but a few found their way here via third party importers. If you squint, you'd have a hard time differing the 512 BB from a 308, but they are vastly different animals indeed. Our feature car was owned for 27 years by Michael Anthony of Van Halen fame.

1984 Ferrari 512 BBi

VIN number: ZFFJA09B000047319. One of the greatest 12 cylinder Ferraris of all time, the 512 BB combines the excellent power of the melodious flat 12 with timeless Pininfarina styling. Perfect in its Rosso Corsa coat with a stunningly redone interior by Prestige Auto Upholstery this up-to-date, serviced and meticulously kept example is 50 state legal and ready to go. Owned by Van Halen rocker Michael Anthony from 1985 until now, this car has seen nothing but the best care. The odometer sports a mere 30,300Km (18,800 miles) and looks younger yet. The Campagnolo center lug wheels are excellent, the glass is clear and the paint is nearly perfect. If you’re looking for a little more flash there’s a one-off set of 18” Boyd Codington wheels which come with the car. Even on the stock rollers you’re not going to shrink into the scenery!

Mechanically the car is better than new, and when it was federalized it was done to the far more stringent California emissions standards, so this car can follow you anywhere--all EPA/DOT releases are included. There are receipts for multiple engine-out services including a full belt and reseal job fewer than 2000Km ago. When it was apart, the intake runners and various other aluminum pieces were sent out and polished for a mild custom look for the usual all-business compartment. The stock exhaust is on the car now, complete with newer catalytic converters, but we have the Tubi exhaust which was on the car a short time and is perfect. The front suspension is rebuilt, the clutch is new and the car drives like it did on delivery day.Inside, power features are everywhere. Power windows, air conditioning, a newer Alpine stereo with component speakers and a front mounted amp are there to make the cruise easier, but the real star is the upholstery.

Fernando at Prestige Auto Upholstery took the interior completely apart (we have a CD full of pictures to show the extent) and replaced every scrap of the old leather and vinyl in favor of glove smooth, intoxicatingly fragrant saddle leather. The seats were redone with black inserts for the Daytona look while the rest of the surfaces are textbook correct. The service cost more than $11,000, and you’ll never have to worry about it gumming up or warping again! All manuals, tools and the jack are included, as well as extra European lights. This car was even featured on Hot Rod TV on Speed Channel! The driving experience can’t be ignored--it’s what makes a Ferrari a Ferrari. From the sound of the engine to the feel of the shifter running through the gates to the visceral acceleration of 12 cylinders pounding away behind you, there’s simply nothing like it. Once one of the finest supercars at any price the 512 BB is now and ever shall be a world-renowned classic.

I've seen only one of these BBs in the wild stateside and they are every bit as impressive in person as they are in pictures, especially when you get an earful of the exhaust note. I was happy to read about the engine servicing, because the engine in the BB has timing belts and not chains. If these fail, it would be a very expensive headache. If I was buying this car, I'd probably sell the Boyd Coddington wheels. While the late hot rodder made some high quality wheels and cars, aftermarket rolling stock would be out of place on such a legendary supercar. The chrome intake runners under the hood add to the dramatic looking engine and mirror the beauty of the Alfa Romeo V6. Today's manufacturers could take a lesson from such engineering sculpture. It doesn't take much to make the heart of a car look beautiful.

-Paul

Ferrari

1975 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4

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The Ferrari Dino 308 GT4 was the first production Ferrari to feature a V8 engine, making it a very important car in the history of the marque. There has been a Ferrari with a mid-mounted V8 in the lineup ever since this model was introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1973. Styled by Bertone, this vehicle signaled a change of direction in Ferrari’s styling language for years to come. The love it or hate it styling concealed a surprisingly practical package, with a fairly usable backseat for passengers or the proverbial golf clubs. This example for sale is an early pre catalytic converter example with the 255 horsepower version of the 3.0 V8, which turns out to be a rare package, more so than which I was aware.

1974 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4

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Rare Opportunity to own a slice of history. I'm selling my 1975 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4 2+2, vehicle identification number 10770. After extensive research, we've determined that this is one of the last four series 1 cars produced by Ferrari and quite possibility the last one running of those four. This car drives and looks beautiful. A must have for a 308 collector or enthusiast. Don't let this one get away!

I have tried to photographically document the car as best as possible, showing hi-res close-up pictures and a video. Bare in mind, this is not a garage-queen, 100 point car, but a rare GT4 driver car, well taken care and maintained in great condition. Please take a moment to review the pictures and video below. Here's what makes the Series 1 cars different and more desirable:

Series 1 cars had 255hp with euro cams and euro timing specs.
Series 1 cars had the narrow grille with the wrap valance
Series 1 cars were standard equipped with Cromodora wheels and center caps.
A series 1 glove box opens with knob under dash, the dash front is solid leather.
The left dash panel on a series 1 GT4 had 3 switches with 3 indicator lights.
Steering rack mounts same a 246 Dino

Fixed type seatbelts on most, but some had the “reel” type

Fuse box visible inside glove box

No cats
Here's a PDF document concerning the differences: 308 Dino GT4 Overview

Now for a little specific information on this Dino. Looks like a three owner car, 50,121 miles, brought into California in 2006, bought by me in 2009. Well maintained with major service done in 2007. Everything is working on the car, including the clock, windows are fast and A/C is cold. Tires and brakes are excellent. Radiator and electrical are redone, no overheating or electrical issues. Hoses, wires and tires all new. Carburetors have been rebuilt. Interior is excellent tan leather, dash is perfect, seats are perfect. Exterior paint is very glossy and the color is a beautiful Ferrari red. Some panels have been resprayed but basically the body and paint are in very good condition considering age. Car drives beautiful and handles great, never heats up. Clutch and shifting are perfect. Just completed oil service with Mobil 1, V-Twin, Synthetic ( only oil with the correct additives for older vehicle valve guides and rings ).

Known repairs/improvements/service:

Replace cam belts and tensioner bearings
Replace all accessory belts
Adjusted valves
Re-timed cams
Replace water hoses & fuel lines
Rebuild water pump & carburetors
Repair / re-core radiator and flush cooling system
Flush brake system
Replace spark plugs and wires
Replace air filter
Recharge A/C system
Re-wire radiator fans
Replaced final drive seals
Replace and rewire fuse box
Included Extras:

Set of 4 five spoke Ferrari 308 wheels
Original Blaupaunt radio
Owner's manual with leather Dino
Shop manual
Cover

I’ve never been the biggest fan of mid-engined, four seat V8 Ferraris, as the proportions can be a bit off and styling from certain angles can be a bit awkward. However, I’m impressed by the quality of this vehicle. Oftentimes, the leather interior looks tired and bodywork can be a bit dodgy on these 308 GT4s, as they are one of the cheaper ways of entry into Ferrari ownership. This car looks remarkably well kept, the tan leather appears to be in like new condition and the bodywork is quite straight. Aside from the cumbersome federally mandated bumpers, I’m coming around on these early V8 Ferraris. The asking price of almost $35,000 is strong money for a 308 GT4, but it is better to buy one complete and well sorted. These cars may be cheap to purchase in Ferrari terms, but one must always remember that maintenance can be an eye opening experience.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1989 Ferrari 328GTS

It was fitting that production of the Ferrari 328 ceased production in 1989; as one of Ferrari’s most recognizable cars, it was an icon of 1980s pop culture. The 328’s styling was given styling tweaks and a bored out 3.2 liter V8 engine to bring it up with the times and freshen it up until the (often lamented) 348 arrived. While the 270 horsepower output is nothing to get excited in this day and age of stratospheric engine output, it was enough to catapult the 328 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. This particular 328 GTS Targa for sale in New York is one for the serious collector with under 9,000 miles and has the advantage of the seller offering a fresh service upon sale.

1989 Ferrari 328GTS

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This stunning 1989 GTS has covered only 8,707 miles and is likely one of the best and most original examples you are will find. Featured in Red with Black leather the car has never been damaged or had paintwork. The tires were recently replaced and the car includes service history along with the original books and tools. In my opinion the 328 is among the best Ferrari models to purchase and own now. The 328 is among the most reliable and usable mid-engine Ferraris and the most refined of the line that started with the 308. The subsequent models, like the 348 and 355, introduced more complicated electronics and require the engine to be removed for a major service, making them much more maintenance-intensive. Leonardo Fioravanti designed some of the most collectible Ferrari models including the famed Dino. You can see his design heritage in the iconic lines of the 328 and for that reason I personally feel the 328 to have a greater upside than other models of the period. I am not alone in that assessment because the market is already valuing the most pristine 328's higher than comparable condition 348 or 355 models, and the value of the very best examples is moving up on 360 territory. I would not be surprised to see the 328 follow in the Dino's footsteps with respect to future appreciation.

Among the photos posted with this auction are a copy of the Carfax report and a photo of a receipt from 2008 showing the most recent major service including timing belts. The belts were previously replaced in 2001. No expense was spared in maintaining this car to the highest standards.
Berlinetta Motorcars in Huntington, New York, specializes in service, repair and restoration of Enzo-Era Ferraris and I am offering this car through Berlinetta on behalf of a client. The car is available for inspection in Huntington, New York.

Berlinetta has been dedicated to Ferrari for over 30 years and takes great pride in accurately representing the cars we offer for sale. We want you to purchase with confidence and to that end we inspected this car thoroughly to identify any areas that might need attention. The one thing we found is that there is some leakage from the cam seals. This is something that happens from age, not from mileage, and we suggest that it is the only item that needs attention. Gaining access to the cam seals entails much of the work involved in changing the timing belt, so although the belt is only three years old, we would suggest that it be replaced at the same time. With the new belt and cam seals, the car will be fresh and up-to-date with regard to these time related issues.

So while you are bidding or negotiating a purchase price on this car, we propose to include a complete major service, with replacement of the timing belt and cam seals, which will be done at no cost for purchaser after closing on the sale. Alternatively, we are willing to negotiate a price without the service if you wish to defer the cam seal replacement until the next timing belt service is due. The car runs and drives properly without further attention at this time, and it is possible that someone inspecting this car could easily miss the cam seal issue. But Berlinetta could not offer the car without disclosing it. That said, the service we are offering is valued at about $5,000. We feel that having a documented service done by Berlinetta in the new owner's name will be a genuine addition to the value of the car.

The one advantage to the 328, over many Ferraris, is that much of the service can be carried out without having to drop the engine out of the car. Resale values for these 328 models typically hover in the $40,000 to $60,000 range depending on mileage and condition, but have been creeping up lately due to the desirability of this model and the fact that it is creeping closer to classic status.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2001 Ferrari F550 Maranello

Ever since the mid 1990s, I've found vehicle design to be rather uninspiring. From ill-proportioned cars to the controversy surrounding BMW and the designs of Chris Bangle, I've felt like the days of beautiful cars have passed us by. There have been some bright spots though. The revival of the MINI. The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. And this car, the Ferrari F550 Maranello. Along with the 456, this car signaled a return to front engined V12 grand turing machines at the famed sports car manufacturer. Introduced in 1996, the F550 was positioned as Ferrari's flagship. With a 5.5 liter V12 pumping out 485 horsepower and plenty of luggage space for two, this was one of the most practical Ferraris to date. Our feature car is a 2001 model with under 20,000 miles on the clock and has the desirable 6 speed manual gearbox.

2001 Ferrari F550 Maranello

As a grand tourer, the Ferrari 550 Maranello successfully embodies Ferraris high performance ideologies while presenting a luxurious and spacious interior. The 550s naturally aspirated V12 mated to a 6 speed manual transmission produces an impressive 485 hp and 419 lb-ft of torque that allows the Maranello to speed to 60mph in 4.2 seconds while its rear trunk is still large enough to accommodate a full set of golf clubs. The roomy interior of this silver grand tourer sports grey leather seats and a red trim throughout.

F550 prices have been dropping steadily, with some early examples seeing values in the $50,000 range. This isn't much more than what a new Infiniti G37 Coupe sells for, but the eternal sticking point is the maintenance costs. This particular car is priced quite a bit higher at $83,900, but that is a mere pittance to what these cars cost new. Personally, I would have rather seen this silver color teamed with an all red interior, but there are worse color combinations. If your bank account can handle it and you are seeking a Ferrari that can be used a little more than once in a blue moon, the F550 is a fantastic proposition. I would hasten to say that in twenty to thirty years time, these coupes will have aged just as gracefully as that other legendary Ferrari coupe, the 250GT Lusso.

-Paul