Ferrari 599 GTO – U.K. Supplied – Classiche Certification

The name ”GTO” has been designated to only 3 cars in Ferrari’s history, the 250 GTO, the 288 GTO and finally the 599 GTO. The ”GTO” badge symbolises more than just initials, ‘Gran Turismo Omologata’ which translates to ‘High Performance Homologation’ is recognised for its presence across various GT racing events throughout the 60’s where the 250 GTO was etching its reputation in motor racing history.

The 599 GTO is the first of its kind, no other V12 Ferrari road car prior to this had utilized the benefits of weight saving or aerodynamics in such an extreme manner. The GTO weighs 100kg less than the standard 599 GTB and had significant design revisions to enhance aerodynamics and cooling. The GTO was also equipped with improved carbon ceramic brakes which were supported by ducting to cool both them and the brake pads, along with wheel doughnuts which were positioned outside the brake disc to ensure that hot air exiting the wheel arches stays as close to the body of the car as possible to reduce drag. Further upgrades on the GTO included the final version of the F1 Superfast transmission, an increase of power to 660 bhp and a revised exhaust system for significantly enhanced acoustics.

Of the reported 599 examples that were produced in total, this GTO was supplied new via HR Owen London to a Mr. Douglas in October 2010, optioned in Bianco Avus with Blu Tour de France racing livery over a Nero interior. This colour combination is one of significance in Ferrari’s history, as it is reminiscent of the N.A.R.T livery that graced the World Championship winning Ferrari 158 of John Surtees.

Further options on this example include carbon fibre headlight buckets, carbon fibre wheel centre caps, carbon fibre door sill covers, carbon fibre racing seats, fire extinguisher, Bose HI-FI system, alcantara upholstery, IPOD connection, satellite navigation system, road legal roll bar, privacy rear windows, white rev counter, coloured special stitching and 4 point safety harnesses.

Further to this extensive specification, this particular 599 GTO has been graced by the signatures of several of the Ferrari factory F1 team and two British motor racing icons; Sir Stirling Moss and John Surtees. The relationship between Surtees and the Scuderia has already been touched upon and to this day he remains the last British F1 World Champion to pilot a Ferrari; in fact the Ferrari website still refers to Surtees as a ‘Scuderia Ferrari Hero’. Further, this example represents a homage to his historic feat, carrying a similar colour-scheme to his championship winning car from 1964. Sir Stirling had a less romantic relationship with Enzo Ferrari and the Scuderia, but is still quoted as saying that never driving for Ferrari in F1 as his ‘biggest regret.’

With just 60 cars being supplied new to the UK, this 599 GTO is surely one of the most unique and desirable examples available today, one that has only covered 10,600 miles from new. The car is complete with a comprehensive main dealer service history, Ferrari Classiche Certification, both keys, its original bookpack with service book and Ferrari cover; an example not to be missed.