The 2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti Bicolore Detroit isn’t just a grand tourer, it’s a chapter of Ferrari history reborn. Originally built as one of five factory show cars for Ferrari’s bespoke Carrozzeria Scaglietti program, this stunning example now emerges with a fresh restoration and a backstory that’s as compelling as its design.
Factory Show Car with Bespoke Flair
Ferrari introduced the Carrozzeria Scaglietti personalization program in the mid-2000s, offering clients a new level of customization. To promote this initiative, five special 612 Bicolore models were created. Each showcased bespoke finishes and hand-selected materials. The “Detroit” example was third in this exclusive series and took center stage at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show.
Wearing a captivating two-tone finish of Rubino Micalizzato over Nero Daytona, the car drew crowds and camera flashes. Its interior was equally bold, Cioccolato and beige leather, diamond-quilted trim, and contrast piping, all tailored by Ferrari’s design studio. It wasn’t just a car; it was a visual story of Italian craftsmanship and design freedom.
A 540-Horsepower Grand Tourer
Beneath its sleek hood sits Ferrari’s naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V12 engine. This powerplant delivers 540 horsepower and routes power to the rear wheels through a six-speed automated manual gearbox. The 612 Scaglietti could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over four seconds, making it one of the fastest four-seaters of its era. Paired with its long wheelbase and tuned suspension, it remains a graceful, high-speed cruiser.
A Twisting Tale of Ownership
Following its press duties, the 612’s story took an unexpected turn. Its first private owner, a Detroit businessman, landed in legal trouble. Trying to shield the car, he registered it under his partner’s name, a local TV anchor. But a minor traffic incident exposed the real ownership. By October 2007, the FBI had seized the car as part of an investigation. It was quietly sold at a federal auction, its factory significance unrecognized.
Rediscovered and Reborn
In 2022, a respected automotive historian identified the car’s true identity and secured ownership. Over the next two years, the Ferrari underwent a full reconditioning. The process included a major service, suspension overhaul, cosmetic refresh, interior restoration, and application of paint protection film. Sticky interior trim, a known Ferrari issue, was resolved to showroom standard. The car also comes with factory tools, books, a fitted 612 suitcase in matching Cioccolato leather, and a 2006 Detroit Auto Show Ferrari press kit.
Summary
This 2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti Bicolore Detroit is more than a beautiful machine, it’s a factory showpiece, a media star, and a survivor of one of Ferrari’s most fascinating stories. Restored and ready, it offers collectors the rare chance to own a tailor-made Ferrari that helped launch the brand’s personalization era.
Disclaimer: Vehicle history and documentation should be independently verified by prospective buyers.
