Vehicle Overview
Ferrari’s classically styled coupe is unchanged for the 2004 model year. Introduced late in the 2002 season, the 575M Maranello succeeded the 550 Maranello. The “M” in the model name designates a modified version.
The two-passenger coupe now uses a front-mounted 5.8-liter V-12 engine rated at 515 horsepower, whereas the 550 Maranello had a 485-hp, 5.5-liter V-12. In addition to larger displacement, the current engine operates with higher compression.
The sequential transmission uses Formula One-style electrohydraulic control, with levers at the back of the steering wheel to change gears. This was the first such installation on a V-12 road car. Drivers can select regular or Sport shifting, in automatic or low-grip mode.
Unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, the rear-wheel-drive 575M Maranello looks very similar to its predecessor but sports a different interior with wraparound leather-upholstered seats. A Skyhook suspension is similar to the one employed on current Maserati models.
Exterior
The 575M Maranello exhibits a classic sports-car profile that is centered around its long-hood and short-deck shape. An eggcrate-style grille sits low in the front, and side gills are visible behind the front wheels. Similar design elements have been seen on various models from the Italian sports-car maker.
Ferrari says the 575M Maranello has “balanced and sober looks [that deliver the] status of an instant classic.” Front air intakes get a different shape and size, and a fresh treatment is used for the front spoiler. A restyled headlight cluster uses a xenon high-intensity-discharge system for its low beams.
Built on a wheelbase that measures only 98.4 inches, the 575M Maranello is 179.1 inches long overall. Measuring just above 50 inches tall, the two-seater is still an easy car to enter and exit. Five-spoke alloy wheels hold 18-inch tires, but 19-inch rubber is available.
Interior
Both occupants of the 575M Maranello can luxuriate in wraparound seats upholstered in leather. Both the driver and passenger should be able to reach the climate and audio controls with ease because they’re mounted in the center of the dashboard. Storage space is limited, but a cargo shelf behind the seats supplements the 6.5-cubic-foot trunk.
Options include racing seats with a carbon frame and leather upholstery, four-point safety harnesses, a Fiorano handling package, a roll bar, a navigation system, a 200-watt stereo and Pininfarina-designed luggage.
Under the Hood
Mounted up front, the 5.8-liter V-12 engine yields 515 hp at 7,250 rpm and 434 pounds-feet of torque at 5,250 rpm. The six-speed-manual transmission can be controlled via levers at the back of the steering wheel. On the console, the driver can select either regular or Sport shifting, which affects suspension damping. The driver can also choose between automatic or low-grip modes. The 575M Maranello can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds and can reach a claimed top speed of 202 mph.
Safety
Brembo brakes have four-piston calipers with an antilock feature and traction control. Side-impact airbags are not available.