Ferrari 575M

The Ferrari 575M never quite received the praise that the 550 did, but crucially many owners favour it for its usability with the optional – but frequently specified – ‘F1’ paddle-shift automated manual transmission.

This car has had one owner from new and it’s obvious that they weren’t afraid to use it – the bonnet and alloys bear the evidence. However, the dealer will, of course, rectify this before the car is sold, and in Nero Daytona with a black leather interior this 575 is about as cool as they come.

It feels very solid mechanically too, which may surprise those who have a bad opinion of Italian build quality. Like any really good GT, the 575M is deceptively quick. It just dollops speed on without fuss and you could imagine continents disappearing unnoticed in the mirror. Yet at the same time it also feels wonderfully taut and, far from being 202mph-supercar-imposing, you can thread it down a narrow road with confidence.

This 575 has the essential ‘Fiorano’ handling pack, which restored the chassis to what it should have been after a blip when the 575 was launched. Don’t buy a 575 without it. The F1 ’box needs more finessing than we’re now used to, but switch Sport mode on and the shifts are pleasingly swift, feeling much better than an Aston Vanquish of a similar vintage.

The price might seem steep when you consider that the 612 Scaglietti next to it in the showroom is just £10K more, but 575s and 550s are selling like warm Victoria sponges so the price is right. And you’re still getting perhaps the best looking modern Ferrari for BMW M3 money.         

With thanks to vendor: Dove House Motor Company, Northamptonshire (01933 354144, www.dovehousecars.com)

Extra Info

• Exterior A few scrapes on the alloys and a couple of stone chips on the bonnet (to be rectified) but otherwise gorgeous• InteriorWonderfully thick quality leather, with just a coupe of marks on the side bolsters. Switchgear seems intact!• MechanicalsEngine feels very fit and the transmission is tight• Should I buy it?FOR: Stunning and usableAGAINST: A manual 550 will be more collectable

Specifications