In 1996, Ferrari introduced the 550 Maranello in a bid to revive their fabled line of grand tourers and it quickly proved to be an overwhelming success.

Six years later, in 2002, the 575M Maranello appeared bringing with it a host of healthy updates adding additional potency to an already incredible car.

Increasing the displacement of the V12 by 250cc to 5748, resulted in 508bhp and 434lb/ft of torque, 0-60 in 4.2 seconds with an advertised top speed of 202s xmph.

The front end was slightly revised with newer headlights, a redesigned air intake and front spoiler and the weight distribution was improved to 50/50.

Two six-speed transmissions were available – a conventional manual gearbox and, for the first time on a Ferrari V12, Magneti Marelli’s semi-automatic (electro-hydraulic manual) ‘F1’ gearbox.

Further mechanical improvements included bigger brakes with an adaptive suspension set-up (the four independent suspension units are also controlled by the gearbox, to minimise pitch t...