Say hello to the Ferrari SP38, the latest offspring from Ferrari’s One-Off programme. The car was unveiled at Fiorano where, after the ceremonial handover to one of Ferrari’s most dedicated customers, the car was immediately put through its paces in a series of hot laps.
Built With A Passion For Racing
The Ferrari SP38’s design is based on the chassis and running gear of the 488 GTB. This unique car is designed by the Ferrari Design Center, and reflects the specific vision of a client with a deep passion for racing. The result is a model that can drive on both roads and tracks, while expressing all the beauty and innovation inherent in Ferrari’s road cars.
The all-new bodywork comes in a newly conceived three-layer metallic red. It marks a radical departure from the language aesthetic of the donor car. The twin-turbo, twin-intercooler set-up of the award-winning 488 GTB is what inspires the design of the Ferrari SP38. Another inspiration is the mighty F40, from which the team took instructions for the project’s general direction.
Compared to the chassis of the 488, the visual mass of the Ferrari SP38 appears concentrated over the rear wheels. The wedge design sharply stretches to the front, contributing to the eye-catching shape. In plain view, the strongly tapered nose expands towards muscular wheelarches. The overall effect is of potency and agility, the kind of car that will turn heads.
Character And Functionality In A Beautiful, Dramatic Design
The Ferrari SP38’s inset headlights are specifically designed to be as thin as possible. Meanwhile, the mandatory Daytime Running Lights are relocated to add character and functionality to a slim bumper lip reminiscent of the 308 GTB.
On the side, the defining air scoop of the 488 GTB is completely concealed. The sheet metal folds in on itself from the low beltline on the door, and into the rear wheelarch and three-quarter light.
The effect is dramatic, as it reinforces the importance of the rear volume. At the same time, it maintains the air flow to the intercoolers at the base of the side window. The dynamic styling continues over the engine cover, which sheds its rear glass and is treated as a flip-up assembly in carbon fibre. Shutlines slash the flanks in a gesture directly reminiscent of the F40’s.
Three transversal slats slash across the engine cover to evacuate engine heat. Along with that, the smooth integration of a substantial rear spoiler is a hint at the famous rear wing of the F40. The trailing edge of the spoiler links seamlessly with the wing and with the aerodynamic diffuser at the bottom, to create a suggestive frame surrounding the tail volume.
A full Tailor Made cabin trim puts the finished touches on this truly special Ferrari. The Ferrari SP38 was on public display for the first time at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Saturday, 26th May 2018.
