Ferrari, a name synonymous with heritage and racing, continues to amaze with its tributes to past legends. Among its illustrious models, few hold the legendary status of the Ferrari F40 LM. One F40 in particular, the Pilot Ferrari F40 LM chassis #74045, has cemented its place in automotive history, not only for its racing achievements but also for inspiring a modern-day masterpiece—the Ferrari F8.
The final chapter of Ferrari’s V8 legacy
When Ferrari introduced the F8 Tributo in 2019, it was more than just another new model. It signalled the end of an era. Ferrari announced that the F8 would be the last model powered by its award-winning internal combustion V8 engine, making this car a fitting sendoff to a truly legendary engine configuration.
Ferrari has a tradition of linking its modern creations to its rich heritage, and the F8 continues that trend by paying homage to the Ferrari F40—a car that debuted over three decades ago. Both cars share a core similarity: a twin-turbo V8 engine. The F8's engine, pushing nearly 720 horsepower, is the same powerhouse found in the 488 Pista.
Respectful homage to the F40's design
The connection between the F8 Tributo and the Ferrari F40 is perhaps most visible at the rear. The F8 features several design elements inspired by the F40, including a reimagined rear wing, four distinct rear lights, and a louvered Lexan engine cover. These aren’t just aesthetic touches—they serve functional purposes, particularly with heat dissipation from the potent V8 engine, mirroring the purpose-driven design of the F40.
One of the most iconic features of the F8 is its clamshell rear deck. This design element not only adds to the car's aggressive stance but also enhances its performance, efficiently cooling the engine beneath it. The F40 pioneered this approach, and the F8 adopts it in a modern context.
Legendary F40 LM #74045
The Ferrari F40 LM chassis #74045 is perhaps the most storied of all the F40s. It made its mark in motorsport history by competing in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 1995 and 1996. In 1995, it finished second in the GT Class, sixth in the GT1 Class, and twelfth overall. Two weeks later, it clinched a first-place overall finish at the BPR Anderstorp. A remarkable feat for its debut year.
In the same year, the car finished second overall and first in the GT1 class at the BPR Silverstone 4 Hours. Sadly, during the 1996 Le Mans 24 Hours, the car caught fire after 93 laps, ending its race early. However, the car survived and was later sold in 1998 for $600,000. Today, it's a regular at track events and resides in France after a successful auction where it fetched around $5 million.
The F8 Tributo homage
What truly connects this Ferrari F8 to the legendary F40 LM #74045 is its striking exterior and interior details, which pay homage to the original in a way that only Ferrari could achieve.
The F8 is finished in Azzurro Castellet, also known as French Racing Blue, a direct tribute to the F40 LM’s distinctive color. This shade, combined with white alloys and bronze calipers, mimics the F40's iconic race-day appearance.
Inside, the F8 continues the tribute. The car’s interior features a special order of alcantara with red and blue stitching on the steering wheel, echoing the original color scheme of the F40 LM #74045. The tribute doesn’t stop there—red alcantara racing seats, 4-point seatbelt harnesses, and a fire extinguisher complete the race-ready vibe, drawing clear parallels to the racing setup of the F40 LM. Special plates inscribed with “Ispirata alla F40 LM #74045” are placed on both the door sills and the back wall, ensuring that every aspect of this F8 pays tribute to its legendary predecessor.
When the car rolled off the production line at Ferrari's Maranello factory, it already had all the visual and technical specifications designed to honour the F40. The only element added post-delivery were the decals to match the F40’s distinct race-day look. Interestingly, even the original F40 LM #74045 had varying decals throughout its racing career, and this F8 embraces that legacy of uniqueness.
Where to see this Ferrari F8
Ferrari enthusiasts won’t want to miss the opportunity to see this remarkable F8 Tributo in person. Luckily, the car will be on display at several events this year, giving fans a chance to admire its homage to the F40 LM #74045 up close.
Here are some key dates and locations to catch this one-of-a-kind F8 Tributo:
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Ferrari Racing Days, Nürburgring, Germany (5-8 September 2024) – as visitor
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Wheels at the Palace, Landgoed Mariënwaerdt - Concours d´Elegance- Netherlands (13-15 September 2024) – presented at supercar paddock
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Monza circuit track Day by Curbstone, Monza, Italy (23 September 2024) - the car was raced on one of the world’s most iconic circuits.
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Ferrari Museum, Maranello, Italy (18 October 2024) – welcome committee
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Ferrari Finali Mondiali, Imola, Italy (16-20 October 2024) - as visitor
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