Ferrari unleashes one-off SP38 supercar
BY JUSTIN HILLIARD | 25th May 2018
FERRARI has unleashed the latest creation from its One-Off program, the SP38, which draws its mechanics and design inspiration from the 2015 488 GTB and 1987 F40 supercars respectively.
Commissioned by a Ferrari customer “with a deep passion for racing”, the SP38 is designed to be driven on both the road and track, backed by the 488 GTB’s 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine.
While the Italian car-maker is yet to detail the SP38’s outputs, it is likely to match its sibling with 492kW of power at 8000rpm and 760Nm of torque at 3000rpm sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Similarly, the SP38’s performance figures remain under wraps, but the 488 GTB can sprint from standstill to 100km/h in 3.0 seconds and 200km/h in 8.3s while on the way to its top speed of 330km/h.
The SP38 made its debut this week during a private event at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit in Maranello, Italy, before immediately taking to the test track to be put through its paces in a series of hot laps.
Designed by the Ferrari Design Centre, the SP38 features all-new bodywork that is reminiscent of the classic F40, which has a spiritual connection with the 488 GTB thanks to its similar powertrain.
Finished in three-layer red metallic paintwork, the SP38’s wedge-like form is heavily concentrated over its rear wheels and stretches towards the front end, where the headlights are as thin as possible.
Furthermore, daytime running lights (DRLs) are relocated from the headlight cluster to the slim front bumper lip, which is a callback to the 1975 308 GTB.
The 488 GTB’s signature side air scoops are completely concealed on the SP38 by its folded sheet metal, while the engine cover loses its rear glass for three flanking, transversal shutlines that pay homage to the F40.
Similarly, the continuous integration of the pronounced rear spoiler into the wing and diffuser helps to frame the back of the SP38 while serving as further acknowledgement to its predecessor.
While the brand has not released images of the SP38’s interior, it says full Tailor Made trim is used, which appears to consist of black leather and Alcantara upholstery with contrasting red stitching.
The SP38 will be on public display for the first time at the annual Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este event in Como, Italy, on Saturday, May 26.
