Ferrari 575M Maranello

Serving as a successor to the radical 550 Maranello, the 575M was unveiled alongside the new F2002 F1 contender. The M suffix stands for modificato (modified in italian) which stresses how many areas on the car have be rethought. While many of the orginal styling characteristics have been retained, Ferrari have substantially re-engineered the engine, transmission and driveline for the new car.

A key element of this granturismo is indicated within its model name. The engine , with a numerical code of 575, is an enlarged version of the V12 found in the original 550. As you would expect this increase in displacent offers more power and torque across the rpm range. The V12 still retains much of the same design elements as before with 4 valves per cylinder, twin overhead camshafts in an all aluminum design.

The optimum weight distribution, with a 50-50 split between the axles, has been achieved thanks to a transaxle design which features a combined rear mounted gearbox and differential unit. Having the tranmission inbetween the rear wheels allows for a reduction in shift times for the new electro-hyraulic gear selector.

As an option, the 575M offers an F1-style gearchange. This marks the first time a road-going car has implemented this technology on a V12 platform. The F1 gearchange on the Maranello has been refined in order to produce maximum efficiency from the use of the manual levers mounted on the back of the steering wheel.

As for the chassis, one of the factors which has a large impact on the car' s road-holding is the new adaptive daming. It is based on a system of independently controlled damping units at all four corners of the car. The system selects the ideal ride height for any condition with a choice of sport or comfort mode.

The braking has also been modified to cope with the increased performance of the vehicle, especially in terms of avoiding fade and improving response under braking. Changes have centred on improving cooling for the brakes with new pad material (Ferodo HP1000;) reduction in brake pedal effort and an increase in the level of assistance from the servo system.

The interior of the 575M Maranello has been extensively revised including the dashboard and centre tunnel. All the dials have been grouped together in one single pod ahead of the driver, with the rev counter in the centre. Also new, are the steering wheel, the door trims and the style of the interior components. The 575M Maranello can also be specified to the customer's requirements by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, which allows customers to chose their own styling, equipment and alter the functionality of the interior space.

When it came to styling of the vehicle, the thinking behind Ferrari was to retain the balance and sober looks. Modifications were limited to those required to deal with the technical changes. Different shaped front air intakes have been optimized to increase the flow of cooling air to the engine as well as new Pininfarina light clusters, with colour-coded headlamp bodies and grey surround, which utilize xenon technology.

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