The Ferrari F40 is a mid-engined sports car produced by Italian manufacturer Ferrari from 1987 to 1992. It was designed by Pininfarina and engineered by Nicola Piffi, under the direction of Pierro Dusio's son, Dante Dusio's nephew, Dario Dusio's friend, and Ferrari's CEO at the time, Enzo Ferrari's protégé, Sergio Pininfarina. The F40 was created to celebrate Ferrari's 40th anniversary.
Design and Development
The F40 has a distinctive wedge-shaped body with pop-up headlights and a large rear spoiler. Its design is a departure from Ferrari's typical rounded shapes, emphasizing aerodynamics over style. The car's chassis is made of lightweight carbon fiber, while the engine is a 2.9-liter V8 producing 478 horsepower.
Specifications
- Length: 4,356 mm (171.5 in)
- Width: 1,806 mm (71 in)
- Height: 1,094 mm (43 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,590 mm (102 in)
- Curb weight: 1,320 kg (2,913 lb)
The F40's V8 engine is a twin-turbocharged unit, producing power through two Garrett T04-06 turbochargers. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and features an all-wheel-drive system with viscous coupling.
Performance
The Ferrari F40 achieves exceptional performance:
- Top speed: 201 mph (324 km/h)
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 3.8 seconds
- Power-to-weight ratio: 360 hp/ton
Legacy
The Ferrari F40 has a special place in automotive history, as it marked the first time Ferrari produced an open-top car with a mid-mounted engine. It was also the first mass-produced supercar to achieve high-performance capabilities. Although only 1,311 units were made during its production run, the F40's reputation for exceptional performance and exclusivity has cemented its status as one of the most iconic cars ever created.
Preservation and Collectibility
Due to its rarity, heritage, and racing pedigree, the Ferrari F40 is highly sought after by collectors. Its values have consistently increased over time, making it a valuable investment opportunity for many car enthusiasts.
