you should search the archives - there's plenty of discussion on the various years of 550s. the early cars put out more power due to emission changes. the later cars generally have better fit and finish. do you have some specific questions? you should consider putting some data in your profile so folks know, for example, what country you're in (at least). the 550 is a superb vehicle. g/l with your search. g/l. doody.
The easiest answer (when dealing with the vast majority of F-cars)would be the latest you can afford, the run went from 97-01. But Doody raises 2 good points, one being that pre-2000 550's didnt have pre-cat restrictions, which dumb down the power a little bit. So if speed and acceleration are of utmost importance..you want a 97-99 at the latest. Second, most owners lucky enogh to have experienced multiple 550's from all eras seem to feel the "finish" is a little tighter in the latter cars...but this is a more "subjective" opinion than the first issue. One other thing to consider is that the later the model year, the less updtaes and recalls need be applied...since the latest would have been warrantied until 2003. This is by no means an absolute, always check any model year for paper work on recalls...just that some of the early ones were built into the latter production models to begin with. Good luck, any 550 thats been properly sorted should give you muchos pleasure...and at a relative bargain to boot! Goldy
Thne newer the better but without a doubt, condition should be the over riding factor with a maintenance history. The newer ones have fewer recalls and campaigns to fix deficiencies. I have a 2000.
There were some 1996 550s. Only one update or recall I know of and that is for the wheels. I no longer have mags. Rats. 12 cylinders or walk.
My only complaint is the interior finish isn't quite as nice as I would expect for the money but it is still nice. Like driving inside a Gucci loafer except for the delaminating plastic window buttons and delaminating A/C control panel are a little chintzy. But, it is more power than I can fully use. Tire spinning in fourth gear (at least with Tubis). Crazy power. Lovely V12 sound. Super fun if you enjoy well in excess of 100 mph motoring. Just buy one you can afford (allow for maintenance) and enjoy.
Steve - I'm not having those particular probs (yet?) but I'm a bit disappointed in the flaking black trim around the left rear quarter window... stuff looks like heat-shrinked black vinyl over black chrome... whatever, it wrinkles up and then flakes off ...... james
Unfortunately quite the norm. Fortunately in LA we have Dave at Premier to fix this in less then an hour.
I have a 2001 550, red with black. The car is great, had it for approx a year. Lots of power , very good looking . The only problems I have had are: Right Visor will not stay up (Very common problem see posts) Rear Shocks needed replacing . Apart from the above problems I drive hte car every second weekend , starts great and runs even better. For me this is a good car and if I could in my profession I would drive it daily. alican
