2004 Ferrari 575M GTC Overview

So, you want Ferrari's high-tech carbon-ceramic braking system? All you have to do is check off the options box and hand over

Expensive, but for those who desire the ultimate front-engined Ferrari, the carbon composite brake and GTC packages are essential. (Photo: Ferrari North America)

E22,620 ($37,000), plus $350,000 for a 575 M with 6-speed manual gearbox, or $370,000 for a 575 M with the six-speed F1 gearbox, but there's a catch: you have to get the brakes with a special "GTC" package. With the GTC handling pack fitted, the suspension has been fettled with to include additional transverse stabilizers plus modified electronically-controlled shock absorbers.

Considering that the regular 575M reportedly handles quite well, I can only imagine what these additional sports alterations

The 575 Maranello with the GTC package looks almost identical to any other 575 M. (Photo: Ferrari North America)

have done. Stiffer settings on the dampers as well as lower unsprung weight from the light disc brakes and alloy wheels mean that the car will be marginally nimbler when it comes to taking corners on smooth surfaces. On the contrary, the tauter suspension will mean that it could find itself loosing contact with the road on rough road surfaces, while ride and comfort in all cases will be.

As for its exterior, the 575 Maranello with the GTC package looks identical to any other 575 M, but for two things; first, a set of three-piece 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels in a 5-spoke star pattern, and second, slightly different tailpipes for the tuned exhaust system. Ferrari can fit the GTC handling package to post-production cars, but a price hasn't been announced as of yet.