Following on from the success of privately-entered 550 Maranellos in international GT racing, including a historic class win in the 2003 Le Mans 24 Hours, Ferrari has developed its own in-house evolution of the new 575M Maranello, the 575 GTC (where the C stands for Competizione).

Developed specifically for the FIA GT and GrandAm championships, the 575 GTC berlinetta features considerable modifications, starting with an increase in displacement from the production car's 5,748 cc to 5,997 cc with a slightly longer stroke. Specific cam timing and Marelli engine management with the FIA regulation 31.8mm restrictors see power increase to 600 bhp which, when matched by the longest gearing of the optional final drives available, ensures a theoretical top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph). The gearing for Monza allows an effective top speed of 288 km/h (179 mph) and that for Estoril 270 km/h (168 mph).

Front and rear track have both been increased while the car's dry weight has been drastically reduced to just over the minimum allowed weight of 1150 kg (2,530 lbs) thanks to the use of a specific tubular spaceframe chassis with composite body panels.

Lengthy wind tunnel testing has gone into developing the 575 GTC's aerodynamics and the car sports a flat underbody with rear diffuser to FIA/ACO regulations, and an adjustable front spoiler together with a split rear wing with Gurney flap. All-round double wishbone suspension features adjustable damping, and adjustable anti-roll bar and anti-dive geometry at the front. Braking is by courtesy of Brembo with 6-pot callipers at the front and 4-pot callipers at the rear.

Story by Ferrari S.p.A.