Michael Jordan's Ferrari 550 Maranello Up for Auction
Written with artificial intelligence.
A 1997 Ferrari 550 Maranello once owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan is set to be auctioned by Joopiter, with estimated bids ranging from $700,000 to $1.3 million. The auction, which has a minimum bid of $500,000, will close on October 1, 2023.
Iconic Vehicle with Celebrity History
A classic Ferrari is always a significant event in the automotive world, especially when it carries a fascinating backstory involving a notable previous owner. This is certainly true for the 1997 Ferrari 550 Maranello now being auctioned by Joopiter. The estimated sale price for this vehicle is between $700,000 and $1.3 million (approximately €611,000 to €1.1 million). Bidding starts at $500,000 and will close on October 1, 2023.
Michael Jordan's Customization
This particular Maranello was delivered to Michael Jordan in May 1997, during his final championship seasons with the Chicago Bulls. One of the most memorable moments associated with the car was when Jordan left the United Center on June 13, 1997, after winning his fifth NBA championship. Custom features include a Rosso Barchetta paint job, chrome Speedline wheels, a tan leather interior, and a personalized Illinois license plate reading "MJ 5." Notably, Jordan's driving position was customized with a tailored seat, allowing him maximum comfort in the car.
Performance and Specifications
The Ferrari 550 Maranello is renowned for its return to grand touring concepts, equipped with a front-mounted 5.5-liter V12 engine that produces 485 hp. It features a six-speed manual transmission, enabling it to reach a top speed of 320 km/h (approximately 199 mph). During Jordan's ownership, the odometer recorded around 6,400 miles, with the car used for commuting to Bulls games, practices, and public appearances.
Recent History
After Jordan sold the car through Lake Forest Sportscars in Illinois in 2002, it vanished from public view, creating intrigue among collectors. In May 2026, John Temerian, co-founder of Curated, located the vehicle in California after extensive searching. He has now decided to auction this unique piece of automotive and sports history, allowing another enthusiast to own this exceptional Ferrari.