Debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006, the 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano builds upon the marque’s tradition of exceptional grand touring vehicles while simultaneously striking several precedents for the firm. Named for a combination of total engine displacement, classification as a Gran Turismo Berlinetta, and Ferrari’s Fiorano Circuit test track, the 599 GTB Fiorano was the first Ferrari GT built using an aluminum chassis, providing greater rigidity while reducing weight. Styled by Pininfarina, the front-engine Fiorano was the first modern Ferrari to incorporate the “flying buttress” design, which serves to create both a fastback profile and additional downforce, a styling element now popular industry-wide.

At the time of its release, the Fiorano was the most powerful production road car built by Ferrari. Its Enzo-derived engine was one of only a few to boast more than 100 hp per liter without the use of forced induction. The Fiorano had a factory rated 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of roughly 205 mph. It marked the introduction of Ferrari’s new F-1 Trac-Predictive Traction Control System, and it was the first Ferrari vehicle equipped with shock absorbers which utilize magnetorheological fluid and magnetic fields to vary damping.

While the vast majority of 599 Fioranos were produced with an “F1 Superfast” paddle-shift transmission, this example is one of only 30 equipped with the gated six-speed manual transmission, of which 20 were sold in the US. As Ferrari moved exclusively to paddle-shift, the 599 Fiorano would be the last of the V12 Ferraris to offer a traditional manual gearbox. Its contrasting matte black roof complements the optional 20" Monolithic rims, behind which are the Rosso Scuderia (Scuderia Red) brake calipers and highly desirable carbon ceramic brakes. This well-maintained, and rarely driven example’s previous owners include collectors and Ferrari aficionados.

Striking a delicate balance between Ferrari’s long tradition of grand touring vehicles and the technological innovation of the early aughts, the 2007 599 GTB Fiorano represented the very best of what Ferrari had to offer. When announced, the 599 GTB Fiorano generated a great deal of anticipation, and upon its arrival, was met with an equally enthusiastic reception. Although it is a relatively recent addition, the 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano will undoubtedly prove to be an important benchmark in Ferrari’s long history.

Both striking and rare, this six-speed example captures a transitional moment that would point the way for all future Ferrari GTs, while remaining reverent to the company’s origins.