Hotel valet destroys Ferrari 599 GTB in Rome joyride
A hotel valet in Rome crashed a guest’s Ferrari 599 GTB during an unauthorised early-morning drive, leaving the V12 supercar beyond repair.
A hotel valet in Rome wrecked a Ferrari 599 GTB belonging to a guest after taking the car for an unauthorised drive in the early hours. The incident left the Italian V12 supercar completely destroyed, with reports indicating the damage was so extensive that the car is unlikely to be salvageable.

Valet Takes Ferrari for Unauthorised Drive
The crash happened while the car’s owner was still asleep at the hotel. Details of the accident’s circumstances have not been released, but the vehicle was reportedly taken without permission and crashed during the unauthorised outing. The hotel has not commented on whether the valet faced disciplinary action, though loss of employment is likely in such cases.
Impact on the Owner and the Hotel
For the owner, the loss of a Ferrari 599 GTB is significant both financially and emotionally. These cars are rare, and values for well-kept examples have remained strong in recent years. The destruction of any 599 GTB is a loss for both the owner and enthusiasts, especially given the car’s status as a modern classic. The incident also raises questions about hotel security protocols and the trust placed in valet staff to safeguard valuable vehicles.
While the hotel has not issued a statement, such events often result in legal and insurance complications. The owner may seek compensation for the loss, and the hotel could face reputational damage if guests perceive valet services as unsafe. Incidents like this can have broader consequences for hospitality businesses, prompting reviews of hiring and training practices for staff handling guest vehicles.
Ferrari 599 GTB: A Modern Classic
The Ferrari 599 GTB, produced from 2006 to 2012, sits among the marque’s most celebrated front-engined V12 models. Powered by a 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 producing 612hp and 608Nm of torque, the car is capable of reaching 100km/h in just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of over 330km/h. Pininfarina styled the two-door coupe, which was succeeded by the F12 Berlinetta in 2012.
| Engine | 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 |
|---|---|
| Power | 612hp at 7,600rpm |
| Torque | 608Nm at 5,600rpm |
| 0–100km/h | 3.7 seconds |
| Top speed | Over 330km/h |
| Production years | 2006–2012 |
| Successor | Ferrari F12 Berlinetta |
Other Notable Ferrari 599 Incidents
Similar incidents involving high-value Ferraris have drawn attention in recent years, including a high-profile crash involving a 599 in Virginia linked to a former Czech prime minister. Such stories highlight the risks and responsibilities involved in handling rare and powerful vehicles, especially when entrusted to third parties.
Engine Pedigree and Enthusiast Value
The Ferrari 599 GTB’s 6.0-litre V12 is derived from the Enzo hypercar, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines Ferrari has produced. This pedigree adds to the car’s appeal among collectors and enthusiasts, and its destruction in any circumstance is notable within the automotive community.