Ferrari 575 Maranello

   The Ferrari 575 Maranello is produced since 2002. It is available as a coupe, while there was also produced a limited version of Superamerica convertible.

   Ridiculous though it may sound, the 550 Maranello's 479 hp of power was starting to look a little tame against super car rivals. So Ferrari stretched the storming V12 engine's capacity to 5.7 liters, upping power to 515 hp. This gives explosive urge while remaining docile when required. Buyers can also have Ferrari's F1-style gearbox.

   Ferrari's front-engined, rear-driven two-seater is now even more of a grand tourer. It's absorbent on poor roads when driven moderately, but it lacks the control of a sports car through bends if you try to exploit its power. That will come as a disappointment to anyone who drove its predecessor.

   The 550 wasn't the quietest high-speed GT car, but the 575 has introduced a new level of refinement. The tyres kick up less noise, the suspension is more compliant and there's more sound deadening in the cabin. The F1 gearshifts bang in less forcefully than in the smaller Ferrari 360, too. And the V12 sounds even more glorious (and refined) than ever.

   Ferrari backs up all of its cars with a warranty that covers three years and unlimited miles. Servicing every 10 000 km (6 000 miles) will be very expensive, though. There is also the huge cost of buying, fuelling and insuring the car, and we expect it to retain just over half of its original value after three years.

   The 575 is put together with care and attention, and will last a very long time. Nevertheless, should you experience a problem, there is always that three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. Regular use will keep the Ferrari running at its best and remind the driver exactly why he or she bought the car.

   All Ferraris have an alarm and come with a tracking device to help trace the car if it has been stolen. However, the car should be fitted with standard deadlocks, which would help to stop the theft in the first place. Traction control and anti-lock brakes are both included, though, as are standard driver and passenger airbags.

   The dash is like a work of art and is dominated, Porsche-style, by its vast central rev counter, which puts some of the dials out of the driver's line of sight. That said, the chrome and leather detailing is a joy. The driver's seat can be moved for height electrically and the steering wheel moves in two directions.

   Although practicality is unlikely to figure at the top of a Ferrari buyer's wish list, the 575 demands no great sacrifices. Driver and passenger are treated to a good amount of head- and legroom, and the wide cabin affords generous shoulder room. The boot holds a couple's luggage and there's extra cargo space in the cabin.

   For the price of a house, you should expect a generous list of equipment provided as standard. You won't be disappointed. There's leather all round, electric adjustment on the seats, climate control and a CD auto changer.

   Production of the Ferrari 575 Maranello ended in 2006.

   Advantages: Ferrari ups the power and performance game after the 550 Maranello so that it once again vies for the title of the supercar king.

   Disadvantages: You could buy a nice house for the same money and have a conservatory fitted for the price of the servicing.

   Also consider: Aston Martin Vanquish, Bentley Continental GT.

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