In Monaco, running into a driver from Formula 1 It’s not unusual to see someone behind the wheel of an exceptional car. But some sightings attract more attention than others. In a new video posted on social media, Nico Hülkenberg was spotted on the streets of the Principality behind the wheel of a Ferrari 599 GTO, one of the last Ferrari a naturally aspirated V12-powered model from before the F12 Berlinetta era. A car as rare as it is spectacular, with only 599 units produced.
The scene takes place near the Fairmont Monte Carlo. We see the German driver behind the wheel of a dark gray 599 GTO, recognizable in particular by the wide red stripe across the hood, its dark rims, and its four exhaust tips. Filmed from several angles, the Ferrari then continues on its way through the streets of Monaco, drawing the attention of car enthusiasts on the scene as it passes by.
A Ferrari V12 that’s anything but ordinary
If the Ferrari 599 The GTB Fiorano, introduced in 2006, was already an impressive GT equipped with a V12 engine derived from that of the Ferrari Enzo; the 599 GTO takes the concept much further. Unveiled in 2010, it incorporates some of the developments made on the 599XX, an experimental version intended exclusively for the track. Under its long hood lies a naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 670 ch and 620 Nm of torque, delivered exclusively to the rear wheels. With a claimed curb weight of 1,605 kg, the 599 GTO accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, from 0 to 200 km/h in 9.8 seconds, and has a top speed exceeding 335 km/h.
Its performance remains impressive more than fifteen years after its debut. But what makes this Ferrari particularly desirable is also its rarity. Unlike the 599 GTB Fiorano, the GTO was limited to 599 units, with a list price of around €350,000 at its launch. Today, the 599 GTOs available for sale are extremely rare… there is currently only one, listed for over 1.6 million euros.
In Monaco, F1 drivers love Italian cars
Nico Hülkenberg's appearance serves as a reminder that Formula 1 drivers have a special relationship with Italian cars, even when they aren't racing for Ferrari.
A few months ago, we already mentioned those F1 drivers who prefer to drive Fiats on the streets of Monaco. Charles Leclerc in his vintage Fiat 500, Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz in their Topolinos, and George Russell and Lando Norris in their Fiat Jollys: all of these are a far cry from the single-seaters they drive on the weekends.
In contrast to these small city cars, Fernando Alonso is also regularly spotted in the Principality behind the wheel much more exclusive Italian cars. His collection includes, among others, a Ferrari F40, a 512 TR, and a LaFerrari, as well as a Lamborghini Sián, a Pagani Zonda Roadster Diamante Verde, and even a Lancia Delta HF Integrale.
With this Ferrari 599 GTO, Nico Hülkenberg joins the list of drivers spotted behind the wheel of genuine Italian collector's items in Monaco.
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