Video: The 550 Prodrive screams the way a Ferrari V12 should
Hump day is here, and chances are you’re already regretting getting out of bed. But treat yourself to a tea and a Vee (12) break, and enjoy the incredible sound of a Ferrari 550 Prodrive, as its 6.0-litre powerplant puts almost 610PS to the rear wheels at a screaming 6,400rpm.
A regular at Peter Auto events, the 550 Prodrive began life in 1999 as a 550 Maranello, before racer Frédéric Dor took it to British tuning specialist Prodrive, with the brief to turn it into a worthy FIA GT Championship machine, fit to take on the Chrysler Vipers that dominated the category.
Without any Italian backing, the specialist planned to build 20 cars, 12 of which materialised. The first two prototypes were entered into four FIA GT events in 2001, taking two victories at the A1-Ring and Jarama. Come 2002, and 550 Prodrives scored four wins at Jarama, Anderstorp, Oschersleben and Estoril, before taking the overall title. The following year, Tomáš Enge, Peter Kox and Jamie Davies piloted a car to victory in the GTS category of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
And the very model (chassis 117110) that you see here competing in the Endurance Racing Legends class of the Dix Mille Tours du Castellet boasts its own impressive racing history. In 2004, with Enge at the wheel, it set pole position for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, before storming to a fourth place finish. The following year, Gabriele Gardel and Pedro Lamy drove it to three FIA GT Championship wins at Monza, Brno and Dubai.
Now, thanks to a combination of brilliant onboard, trackside and garage footage, you can enjoy its incredible action from the comfort of your own sofa.
Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a mid-morning helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: Jumping rally cars will never be boring
Video
Elevenses
on track
Peter Auto
Ferrari
550 Prodrive
Dix Mille Tours du Castellet
Circuit Paul Ricard
