MOTOR CARS | 241
4The latter’s damping fluid changes in viscosity almost
instantaneously when a magnetic field is applied, thereby altering
the suspension characteristics. Damper controls were placed on
the Formula 1-style steering wheel together with those for traction
control and stability, as was the starter button. The 599’s fortunate
driver would find him/herself looking at a central analogue rev
counter flanked by a similar speedometer and an electronic display
screen for all other functions. Ferrari thoughtfully provided plentiful
storage space within the sumptuous leather-trimmed interior.
Even more exclusive, special-edition derivatives were not long
in coming, commencing with HGTE (Handling Grand Tourer
Evoluzione) which as its name suggests brought with it a revised,
more sporting suspension package. This was followed by the
599XX, a more powerful, stripped down model intended solely
for track use although, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, air
conditioning was retained. Weight was reduced by employing a
greater proportion of composite and carbon fibre body parts while
the engine, with its rev limit raised to 9,000rpm, now produced
720bhp. A revised gearshift reduced the change time still further.
The aerodynamics were altered to produced increased downforce,
employing a rear wing, F1-style diffuser and twin electric fans in the
boot to suck air from beneath the car. When applied to the 599XX’s
aerodynamics, the phrase ‘state of the art’ was no exaggeration.
The 599XX was introduced at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show and the
following year Ferrari was able to announce that one had lapped the
Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring in 6 minutes 58.16 seconds,
the fastest time ever achieved by a production-based sports car
and quicker than the mid-engined Enzo.
The 599XX’s driver, Rafffaele de Simone, commented: ‘We were
pleased that this car turned out to be far more driveable than the
Enzo FXX.’ Ferrari went on to build 29 599XXs, which their fortunate
owners – or ‘client development drivers’ in factory parlance - were
invited to enter in 18 special ‘Corse Clienti’ non-competitive track
events worldwide.Aware that for some customers too much is never enough, Ferrari
took the 599 concept a stage further, announcing the 599XX
Evoluzione at the Bologna Motor Show in December 2011. The
Evoluzione weighed 35kg (77lbs) less than the 599XX and was more
powerful still, producing 740bhp, while the rear wing became active,
Formula 1-style. Indeed, there are few out-and-out competition
cars that incorporate such advanced technology and stupendous
performance as the 599XX Evoluzione. For an additional $250,000,
existing 599XX owners could have their cars upgraded to this
enhanced specification.Un-raced and with delivery mileage only, the car we offer represents
a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire one of these
ultra-rare Corse Clienti Ferraris.Should the vehicle remain in the EU, local import taxes of 20% will be
applied to the hammer price.
£540,000 - 580,000
€680,000 - 730,000