Ferrari has unveiled the SC40, a one-off vehicle that pays homage to the iconic F40, which celebrates its 38th anniversary this year. This modern interpretation is based on the company’s current model, the 296 GTB, and was commissioned by a private buyer. The SC40 is already in the hands of its owner, while a styling display will be showcased at the Ferrari museum in Maranello.
The SC40 derives its name from its F40 inspiration and the expertise of Ferrari’s Styling Centre. The vehicle features several design elements reminiscent of the 296 GTB, including the glasshouse, wing mirrors, and tail-lights. However, much of the exterior is uniquely crafted, blending contemporary design with the late 1980s aesthetic of the F40.
Distinctive Design Elements
At the front, the SC40 showcases square headlights that seamlessly integrate into a slender lower air intake. Modern safety regulations prevent the use of pop-up headlights, which were a hallmark of the F40. The design modifies the 296’s smooth curves, flattening and squaring them to evoke the F40’s iconic look.
The rear of the vehicle features a distinctive clamshell cover for the engine bay, which houses a fixed rear wing and smoked Lexan louvres that provide a view of the V6 engine. While the wing is significant, it does not rise as high as that of the F40. The SC40 is equipped with bespoke five-spoke 20-inch wheels, fitted with Michelin tyres measuring 245/35 at the front and 305/35 at the rear.
Inside, the SC40’s design is more closely aligned with the 296 GTB than the exterior suggests. The interior features a combination of grey faux suede and red Jacquard fabric, complemented by SC40 logos on the dashboard and seats. Reflecting the F40’s extensive use of Kevlar, the SC40 incorporates a carbon-Kevlar composite in the footwells, floor mats, dashboard highlights, engine bay, and luggage area.
Performance Specifications
Under the hood, the SC40 retains the drivetrain of the 296 GTB, which is a plug-in hybrid system. The vehicle is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine generating an impressive 488 kW and 740 Nm of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission and a 122 kW electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 610 kW.
Ferrari claims the SC40 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, reaching 200 km/h in 7.3 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 330 km/h. For context, the original F40 featured a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that produced 352 kW and 577 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 324 km/h.
This latest creation exemplifies Ferrari’s commitment to blending heritage with modern performance, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike. As the automotive world continues to evolve, the SC40 stands as a testament to Ferrari’s legacy, marrying nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.
