The 1996 introduction of the Ferrari 550 Maranello marked the highly anticipated return of a front V12-engined two-seater, reviving the classic Grand Tourer spirit after an absence for decades. The model's winning combination of aesthetics and success secured its place in Ferrari's history. The limited edition Barchetta, unveiled at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, swiftly became a coveted collector's item. With a front V12 engine, it sold out quickly, totaling 448 units and establishing itself as one of Ferrari's prized modern-era road cars. In January 2005, Ferrari debuted the 575M Superamerica at the Los Angeles Motor Show, reviving the iconic Superamerica name. This limited-run model, comprising 559 units, commanded a price approximately 25% higher than its fixed-head counterpart. Despite the premium cost, all units were pre-sold before the first production version was showcased in Monaco in May 2005. The Superamerica, unveiled at the 2003 LA and Detroit Auto Shows, stands out as Ferrari's pioneer with a motorized and folding hard top, representing a contemporary take on the 575M. Rooted in Ferrari's heritage, the Superamerica traditionally denotes the most exclusive luxury models and is recognized as the first Ferrari featuring a motorized and foldable hardtop. Derived from the 575M Maranello, the Ferrari Superamerica offers either an F1-style or manual gearbox, boasting a heightened 540 hp output from its powerful 12-cylinder engine. Options include the GTC Handling package with features like carbon ceramic brakes. The flip-top roof, crafted by Fioravanti, uses translucent materials known as Revocromico, providing adjustable light levels with five tint options in the cockpit. With a production limited to 559 units, only 43 cars incorporated a manual gearbox, ensuring exclusivity aligned with market demand, in line with Ferrari's philosophy.
The Ferrari Superamerica has a rich history spanning decades, embodying Ferrari's commitment to exclusive, high-performance luxury cars. Originating in 1956 with the limited-production 410 Superamerica, it featured a potent V12 engine and bespoke coachwork. The lineage continued in 1960 with the refined 400 Superamerica, showcasing Italian design and reaching excellence. In 2005, Ferrari revived the Superamerica name with the 575M Superamerica, incorporating an innovative "Revocromico" electrochromic glass roof. This modern iteration, based on the 575M Maranello, was produced in limited numbers, with only 559 units. The 575M boasted a larger 5.75-liter engine, enhanced specifications, and the option of an F1 paddle-shift gearbox. Today, it is highly coveted by enthusiasts and collectors for its limited production and unique features, symbolizing Ferrari's automotive excellence. The 575M featured traditional Ferrari architecture, with a tubular steel box section frame, unequal-length double-wishbone A-arms, and coil-over adaptive shocks at each corner. Its 6-speed rear transaxle transmission was coupled with a front-mounted 5.75-liter, 12-cylinder engine delivering approximately 508 horsepower. At the time of its release, the Superamerica held the distinction of being the most expensive Ferrari, having a reserved status for the elite clientele of the brand. Every Superamerica was a one-of-a-kind creation, undergoing complete customization to ensure that each car was unique, and no two vehicles were identical. Individuals such as Agnelli, the Shah of Persia, and the President of Mexico were among the prestigious customers who owned a Superamerica, adding to the desirability of this exclusive Ferrari model.
Ferrari introduced the 575M Maranello where the designation "575" signified a slightly larger engine, while the "M" denoted "modificato," indicating modification. The 575M displayed subtle aesthetic deviations from its predecessor and achieved slightly greater speed. However, the significant innovation was the introduction of an F1-style paddle-shift transmission. Ferrari's attempts with the 575M resulted in impressive 0–60 mph times in the 4.2-second range, with an additional 0.05 seconds for manual-gearbox models. The top speed reached an impressive 199 mph. Powered by the 575M Maranello's 5.75-liter V12 engine generating around 540 horsepower, the Superamerica offered the optional F1-style semi-automatic paddle-shift gearbox for rapid and precise gear changes. Enthusiasts seeking dynamic experience could opt for the GTC Handling Package, featuring carbon ceramic brakes for improved performance. Ferrari prioritized performance optimization through the extensive use of lightweight materials, including aluminum in the chassis and body.
When Ferrari brought back the concept of two-seater, front-engine grand touring cars in 1996 with Pininfarina's 550 Maranello, it was clear that there would be a demand for a convertible version, just like the 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder that preceded it. The result was the 550 Barchetta, identical to the 550 Maranello but designed as a pure roadster, reminiscent of some of Ferrari's earliest models. While customers enjoyed their 550 Barchettas, many felt restricted by the lack of a conventional convertible top, limiting their use to quick summer outings. In response, Ferrari sought a solution for the convertible variant of the 575M Maranello, introducing a brand-new convertible top system that offered the freedom of a convertible with the security of a coupe. This Superamerica model is presented in Rosso Corsa, complemented by rich tan leather hides with black and carbon-fiber interior details, enjoying around 7,500 miles on the odometer. The Ferrari comes equipped with desirable extras, including the F1 paddle-shift transmission, power-operated Daytona seats with embossed Prancing Horse headrests, Scuderia Ferrari fender shields, original window sticker, red brake calipers, and a six-CD changer. The rotating top, designed beautifully by Leonardo Fioravanti, a former Pininfarina designer known for classics like Ferrari's Daytona, F40, 308 GTB, and 288 GTO, features a carbon-fiber frame and electro-chromatic glass. The glass transparency can be electronically adjusted from clear to near opaque, and a key aspect of the design is the ability to access the trunk even when the top is open.
The 575 Superamerica set itself apart through its dual-purpose design and the innovative rotating carbon fiber roof. The engineering marvel of the roof allowed for the adjustment of incoming light when closed, offering complete transparency or restricting light to just 1% with a simple dial switch. Furthermore, the unique roof design preserved the rear window, serving as an effective wind deflector during rotation. Importantly, the folded roof, when down, cleverly occupied no luggage space, which was situated at the rear of the car. This revolutionary roof allowed drivers to adjust transparency, offering multiple tint levels, and could rotate 180 degrees, transforming the coupe into a convertible in less than 10 seconds. This showcased an impressive feat of design innovation.
The Ferrari 575M Superamerica showcased cutting-edge technology, featuring an innovative electrochromic glass roof, a potent V12 engine, and advanced transmission choices, making it the epitome of automotive innovation during its production era. This model could be driven aggressively or enjoyed as a leisurely weekend getaway car, reminiscent of classic Ferrari models. With a V12 front engine and a unique carbon fiber roof, the 575M Superamerica offered versatility with an open convertible feel and secure coupe attributes when closed. Limited to 43 units, the manual gearbox variant is a rare and special modern classic, combining rarity with drivability, appealing to a new generation of collectors. The Superamerica's design incorporated aerodynamic elements, contributing to stability and performance at high speeds. Among optional features, the F1 transmission, a $10,000 option, was favored by nearly all clients, leaving only 43 opting for the 6-speed version, which now commands a premium in the market.
The 575M Superamerica equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox commands prices that are 20-30% higher compared to those featuring an F1 transmission. As early as 2015, a manual variant fetched over USD 800,000, followed by a sale of a well-maintained one for USD 680,000 the next year. More recently, in July of the current year, a unit was sold for €860,000, and at Pebble Beach, another changed hands for almost $1 million ($913,000) through Gooding & Co. Clearly, prices for this model are experiencing an upward trend. In contrast, a 575 Superamerica with an F1 gearbox has never come close to reaching such high figures. Manual cars, for evident reasons, hold greater appeal to collectors. A surge in the market occurred in 2014, sparked by notable high sales of the rare 6-speed models, drawing attention to the Superamerica at its best.
At present, the Ferrari 575M Superamerica is widely regarded as a prized and sought-after collector's item. Its scarcity, inventive attributes, and historical ties to Ferrari all play a part in shaping its enduring legacy. Whether harking back to its early years or its contemporary revival, the Ferrari Superamerica stands as an epitome of automotive brilliance, seamlessly merging performance, luxury, and exclusivity in the signature Ferrari style. Exotic Car Trader presents a secure platform for streamlined car transactions, eliminating the challenges of private selling. Every vehicle listed undergoes a rigorous private seller verification process to ensure legitimacy for our buyers. Our transparent car buying process clearly outlines all fees and packages, providing a seamless and comprehensive experience. We handle escrow of funds at no additional cost and extend trade-in and financing options for buyers. Our world-class Transactions Team, equipped with advanced fraud detection tools, ensures the safety and security of transactions. Enjoy these advantages when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us today for listing services or to make a purchase. The Ferrari Superamerica, with its potent powertrain, and meticulous design stands as an enduring automotive icon, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike.
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