Back in June, we reported on two new names trademarked by Ferrari: SC40 and CZ26. It’s now clear what one of them stands for. The SC40 marks the arrival of Ferrari’s latest Special Project, a unique, one-off creation that brings a fresh vision to life.
The Ferrari SC40 pays tribute to the F40 with the underpinnings of the 296 GTB.
Modern tribute
Ferrari has taken the wraps off the SC40, its latest one-off creation developed through the Special Projects programme. Built on the platform of the 296 GTB, the SC40 is a combination of heritage and innovation. Its name and design pay tribute to the F40.
Design elements
The SC40 was designed by Ferrari’s Styling Centre under the direction of Flavio Manzoni. The car features a bespoke white colour and strong geometric lines and squared-off shapes that recall the Ferrari F40’s design. At the front, the car has a long nose and wide lower intake that visually lowers the front end. The headlights are mounted at the corners and framed in black, which continues into the brake air intake section.
From the side, vertical lines guide the shape of the front wings, doors, and engine cover. Intercooler intakes are formed by NACA-style ducts and highlighted by a triangular carbon-fibre plate. A fixed rear wing flows directly from the flanks and merges with the rear fascia. This wing includes an engraved SC40 logo as a reference to the original F40’s branding.
The rear features open mesh panels that reveal key mechanical components and smoked Lexan louvres that give a clear view of the V6 hybrid powertrain beneath. The central exhaust, is constructed from titanium and carbon fibre. Tail lights reflect the design of the 296 GTB but sit within a completely new rear structure.
Performance from the 296 GTB
Underneath the SC40 is the same hybrid powertrain found in the 296 GTB: a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor. This setup delivers 830 CV and 545 lb-ft of torque. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 330 km/h (205 mph). Advanced electronic systems and active aerodynamics ensure that power delivery is smooth and efficient in all conditions.
Interior
Inside the SC40, Ferrari has brought back materials that were iconic in the F40. Carbon-Kevlar is used across the footwells, floor mats, steering wheel, dashboard inserts and even in the engine bay and luggage area. The seats combine Charcoal Alcantara and red Jacquard technical fabric, with details such as embroidered Prancing Horses and SC40 logos.
The SC40 white paint colour was developed specifically for this project. It matches the cool tone of the carbon-Kevlar elements inside the car. The wheels are also custom-designed, combining brushed metal finishes with black spokes.
Bespoke craftsmanship
The SC40 was commissioned by a private client who worked closely with Ferrari’s design team over a two-year period. Every part of the vehicle was developed with the owner’s vision in mind. While the car itself is not available to the public, a full-size styling model will be on display at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello from October 18.
Looking at the details, from the rear wing to the sharp lines and intakes, do you think the SC40’s design features capture the spirit of the F40, or is it too modern to truly align with its inspiration?
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