The Ferrari Tipo 059–066 is a 3,496 cc, 65° V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine introduced in 1995 as the powerplant for the 550 Maranello and evolved through the 575M Maranello. It features a quad-camshaft (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and Bosch Motronic 5.2 electronic fuel injection, producing 359 kW (492 PS) in its initial form. This engine was engineered for high-revving performance and refined grand touring, representing the final evolution of Ferrari’s front-mounted V12 architecture before the F133 series.
Fitted to the 550 Maranello, 550 Barchetta, and 575M Maranello, the Tipo 059–066 was designed to deliver linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque for effortless high-speed cruising. The all-alloy construction and dry-sump lubrication ensured reliability under sustained load, while the use of individual throttle bodies per cylinder enhanced throttle response. Most European-market units met Euro 3 standards through precise lambda control and catalytic converter efficiency.
One documented generational update occurred in 2002 with the 575M Maranello, which increased displacement to 5,748 cc via bore and stroke enlargement (Tipo F133), while retaining the DOHC architecture. This update, detailed in Ferrari Engineering Bulletin FEB-02-05, required revised crankshaft, pistons, and intake manifolding. The Tipo 059–066 represents the final iteration of Ferrari’s pre-F133, 65° V12 engines before transitioning to a 66° layout and F1 automated transmission integration.
Production years 1995–2001 meet Euro 3 standards; 2002–2004 models meet Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5509).
The Ferrari Tipo 059–066 is a 3,496 cc 65° V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine developed for front-engine grand touring applications (1995–2001). It combines a lightweight alloy block with individual throttle bodies and dry-sump lubrication to deliver high-revving performance and long-term durability. Designed to meet Euro 3, it balances traditional V12 character with improved emissions compliance and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 65° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 359 kW (492 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 5.2 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (1995–2001); Euro 4 (2002–2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Single-circuit liquid cooling | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (dual overhead cam per bank) | |
| Oil type | Ferrari 10W-60 (API SL, ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The DOHC V12 design provides smooth, high-revving performance but requires strict 30,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Ferrari 10W-60 oil is essential for high-temperature stability in the dry-sump system and camshaft lubrication. Extended idle periods should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on injectors and intake ports. The individual throttle bodies demand regular synchronization and airflow calibration to maintain idle stability and throttle response. Cooling system integrity is critical; any loss of coolant must be investigated immediately to prevent warping of the alloy cylinder heads. Pre-1998 units have known water pump degradation—inspections per FEB-98-02 are recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires Ferrari 10W-60 specification (Ferrari SIB 10 05 95). Supersedes API SL and ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 1995–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5509). Euro 4 applies to 2002–2004 575M variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output assumes clean air filter, fresh fuel system calibration, and correct ignition timing (Ferrari TIS Doc. F059-012).
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F059-001, F059-003, F059-005, FEB-02-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5509)
UN Regulation No 85 (R85) - Power Measurement
The Ferrari Tipo 059–066 was used across Ferrari's 550 platform with longitudinal front mounting and shared with no other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-a revised exhaust manifold in the Barchetta and upgraded ignition in late 550 Maranello models-and from 2002 the launch of the 575M Maranello marked the introduction of the F133 series with larger displacement, creating no direct predecessor interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-side engine block near the front-mounted timing cover (Ferrari TIS F059-015). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for Tipo 059 series). All Tipo 059–066 engines feature a central intake plenum with dual distributors (one per cylinder bank) and individual throttle bodies. Critical differentiation from later F133 engines: Tipo 059–066 has a 3.5L displacement with 65° V-angle; post-2002 F133 uses a 5.8L configuration with 66° layout and revised intake. Service parts require model-year verification—ignition components (distributors, coils) are not interchangeable between 550 and 575M without recalibration (Ferrari SIB 12 07 02).
The Tipo 059–066's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age-related cracking, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Ferrari service reports from 2003 noted belt degradation in units exceeding 5 years, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions-related failures due to stable Motronic control. High-temperature operation and infrequent use increase rubber compound aging, making proactive replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1995-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-059-066.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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