While track-only vehicles exist in a niche, most major manufacturers—from Indian Motorcycle to Ford and Lamborghini—now make extreme machines for the sole purpose of screaming around closed courses and circuits. But it was Ferrari that really invented the genre with the 2005 FXX, an Enzo-based hypercar made more hyper through mid-engine enlargement, aggro tuning, and dieting.
The second vehicle in Ferrari’s pioneering XX track-only program gave the same treatment to the 599, a front-engine grand tourer, the most extreme example of which is headed to an upcoming RM Sotheby’s auction. The 599XX debuted in 2009 with a revised version of the F140 6.0-liter V12 that powered both the Enzo and the 599, lifting performance to 720 horsepower and 506 pound-feet of torque. That power uptick, in combination with state-of-the-art damping and the near absence of all creature comforts, allowed the 599XX to lap the Nürburgring almost 30 seconds faster than the roadgoing Enzo hypercar, becoming the first “production-derived” car to break seven minutes.
In 2011, Ferrari introduced an Evoluzione package lifting performance to 740 hp and 516 pound-feet of torque, while a shortened final drive ratio sharpened acceleration. A Formula 1-inspired drag reduction system was integrated into a new twin-profile rear wing, evaluating throttle input, steering angle, and yaw to continuously optimize downforce. A lightweight exhaust system with side-pipes, revised suspension geometry, and bespoke wheels clad in Pirelli racing slicks rounded out the Evo package, and while no official time around the ‘Ring was clocked, sub-7 is a given.
RM Sotheby’s has more info on which of the just 45 examples is up for grabs:
Chassis number 169968 is one of the earliest cars built, likely falling within the first half-dozen examples produced. The spectacular Ferrari was allocated to an industrialist who ran the car with his racing-driver son at various XX Programme events. Decorated with race #21, the 599XX made appearances at the 2011 Finali Mondiali at Mugello, and the Daytona event of 2016, among others.
In early 2023 the Ferrari was acquired by the current owner, a racing enthusiast from Germany. Following an engine overhaul, the 599XX was test driven in mid-March at Fiorano by Programme instructor Andrea Bertolini. A week later, now classified as race #146, the car was enjoyed by its new owner at Imola, and he returned at Monza two months later.
In September 2024 the owner drove the Ferrari at an XX Programme event at the Nürburgring, and this is believed to be the car’s most recent outing. According to the official technical report issued at the event’s conclusion, 169968 had utilised only 9 per cent of its projected engine life, and 20 per cent of its projected gearbox life.
Most importantly, this 599XX has been desirably upgraded to the Evo specification, endowing it with the ultimate capabilities in power and handling. The scintillating Evo invites the next caretaker to indulge in hot laps and exhibition opportunities at marque events. Its rarity and technical profile alone would crown most any performance-oriented collection.
Expect this 2009 Ferrari 599XX to sell for up to $3 million when it crosses the block at RM Sotheby’s upcoming Lake Tegernsee auction in Germany, where it will be joined by the “world’s first megacar.”