Looking for a 550 - Need help!!

After lurking around on FerrariChat for some time now, I wanted to first extend my thanks to the members of this board. I like to think that I am a fairly educated buyer now, and the postings of FerrariChat members are the reason why.

With that in mind, I figured it would be best to turn to those who know more about Ferraris than I do to help me find my first one. After much reading and research, I've decided that I really love the looks, performance, and subtlety of the 550 Maranello, and I'm now hoping that someone out there may be able to help me in my search for one.

By way of background, most of my friends think I've got a sickness when it comes to cars--they're incorrect (or I'm in denial). The reality is that I haven't been able to find the "perfect" car for me. Of course, after spending a lot of money switching from car to car, I think I've finally realized that the perfect car probably doesn't exist. In fact, my little mind has now concluded that I need two complementary cars to offer me the practicality, luxury, and performance that I'm looking for. I came to this revelation late, but not after trying out an assortment of Porsches, MBs, Lexuses (Lexi?), and even a BMW that turned out to be a lemon.

That said, my current thinking seems to be that I really want a 550 to go with my practical vehicle (an Acura MDX). That said, I'm hopeful that you guys can help...

Ideally, I am looking for a properly serviced 550 Maranello with a documented service history that is in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition (surprise!). I am relatively open to color choices, but would list my preferences (in order) as:

Grigio Titanio with black or gray interior
Argento Silver with black interior
Nero (Black) with tan interior
Blue (Pozzi or TDF) with tan interior

Needless to say, I prefer a car that has not been involved in an accident or had paint work. In terms of options, I'd prefer something with shields and red calipers. The rest is gravy. I don't have a strong perference as to model years, but would lean towards a 1999 or 2000 model figuring that 97/98 cars probably had bugs, and the 2001s are still commanding a high price.

I'll stop rambling for now, but would very much appreciate if you guys please post or PM me if you know of anything that is available.

Many thanks-
Vic

 

Thanks. I'll try to contact Neal.

Out curiosity does anyone out there know anything about this car's history?

 

Alex-

Thanks for the info. Please PM me with info as to whether you think you can find a 1999 550 in titanium with black interior, factory shields and red calipers that has a documented service history, along with the usual requirements as to condition. If you think you can find one, please give me an idea of price range, and whether that range includes a a major service if one has not been recently completed. I would need to car shipped to the East Coast, outside Washington, DC.

Thanks-
Vic