Ferrari has unveiled the SC40, a one-off vehicle paying homage to the legendary F40, which celebrates its 38th anniversary this year. Commissioned by a private buyer, the SC40 draws inspiration from the contemporary 296 GTB, blending modern engineering with classic design elements. While the car has likely already been delivered to its owner, a styling model will be displayed at Ferrari’s museum in Maranello, Italy.
The design of the SC40 reflects strong ties to the original F40, particularly in its exterior features. The vehicle showcases a unique glasshouse, wing mirrors, and tail-lights, all closely related to the 296 GTB. Yet, much of the car’s exterior is custom-designed. The front features square headlights that seamlessly integrate with a slim lower air intake. Modern safety regulations have prevented the inclusion of pop-up headlights, a signature of the F40.
To achieve a design reminiscent of the late 1980s aesthetic, the SC40’s curves have been altered, flattening and squaring off elements such as the grille, fenders, and side air intakes. At the rear, a distinctive clamshell cover houses the engine bay, complete with a fixed rear wing and smoked Lexan louvres protecting the V6 engine. Although the wing is prominent, it does not rise as high as the one found on the F40.
The SC40 rides on bespoke 20-inch five-spoke wheels, fitted with 245/35 Michelin tyres at the front and 305/35 tyres at the rear. The interior of this one-off creation is more closely aligned with the 296 GTB than the exterior, featuring a combination of grey faux suede and red Jacquard upholstery, alongside SC40 logos adorning the dashboard and seats.
In a nod to the F40’s extensive use of Kevlar, the SC40 incorporates a carbon-Kevlar material in its footwells, floor mats, dashboard highlights, engine bay, and luggage area. Under the surface, the SC40 utilizes the same plug-in hybrid drivetrain as the 296 GTB. It houses a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine producing 488 kW and 740 Nm, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission and a 122 kW electric motor. The vehicle drives the rear wheels, resulting in a total system output of 610 kW.
Ferrari claims that the SC40, similar to the 296 GTB, can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, reach 200 km/h in 7.3 seconds, and achieve a top speed exceeding 330 km/h. For comparison, the original F40 featured a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 352 kW and 577 Nm, capable of 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 324 km/h.
The SC40 stands as a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to blending heritage with innovation, creating a vehicle that not only pays tribute to the past but also embraces cutting-edge technology.
