where people and cars meet
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2023) – Fisker Inc. (NYSE: FSR) (“Fisker”), driven by a mission to create the world’s most emotional and sustainable electric vehicles, today released additional details on its Fisker Rōnin Super GT, an all-electric convertible that was showcased at the company’s first-ever Product Vision Day on August 3, 2023. Continue reading
McLaren will launch its second model in the new Sports Series, the McLaren 540C Coupé, at the Shanghai Motor Show, 20-29 April 2015. The most attainable McLaren yet, the 540C Coupé joins the recently revealed 570S Coupé in the Sports Series as the brand brings its race derived DNA to a new audience and segment. These introductions bring the number of new McLarens launched in 2015 to four as the brand continues its rapid growth. Globally available and priced from £126,000, the 540C Coupé can be pre-ordered now with deliveries scheduled to being in early 2016.
The 540C Coupé is a pure McLaren, and a pure sports car, sharing its DNA with the models in the Super Series and Ultimate Series, including a light weight carbon fibre chassis and race-derived technologies. It is fitted with a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine which has been developed to be responsive and thrilling, even at low engine speeds. As its name suggests, the Sports Series dedicated application of the award-winning McLaren power unit generates 540PS at 7,500 rpm and 540Nm of torque at 3,500-6,500 rpm. With stop-start technology, it offers optimised levels of efficiency and a longer range suited to the typical usage of cars in this segment.
At the heart of the 540C, as with the 570S, is the unique carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis which has been newly designed with a greater focus on day-to-day usability, offering improved ingress to and egress from the cabin, along with class-leading occupant protection and safety. A dry weight of as low as 1,311 kg (2,890lbs) is achieved as a result of this lightweight structure and the use of aluminium body panels. This figure sees the 540C almost 150kg lighter than its closest competitor.
Power is delivered through the rear wheels via a seven-speed seamless shift gearbox (SSG) which, aided by the low weight of the 540C, sees the 0 to 100km/h (62mph) sprint completed in 3.5 seconds, 0 to 200km/h (124mph) in just 10.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 320km/h (199mph). Given this level of performance, 25.5 mpg on the EU combined cycle and emissions of just 258 g/km are an impressive achievement.
A subtly revised aerodynamic package and a dedicated wheel design mark out the 540C Coupé against the more powerful 570S Coupé. Unique aero blades below the front bumper channel cold, clean air through the lower bodywork and up over the sculpted bonnet, flanked by large LED headlamps. At the rear, the diffuser sits between the twin exhausts which exit below the rear bumper. The aerodynamically-led styling of the Sports Series Coupé includes intricately designed dihedral doors which include the elegant floating door tendon. This design feature channels air along the length of the door into the two integrated air intakes mounted in the rear quarter panel. This creates a clean path for the air to flow along the bodywork with minimal drag, directing air to the flying buttresses at the rear of the cabin which optimise air flow over the rear deck to increase downforce levels and aid engine cooling. An integrated spoiler at the trailing edge of the rear deck provides optimal downforce.
The 540C Coupé is fitted with distinctive new cast alloy wheels, available with silver or stealth finish, 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. These are fitted with Pirelli P Zero™ tyres as standard, which have been developed specifically for the Sports Series to offer high levels of performance in all conditions, with progressive levels of grip and a focus on comfort. The 540C retains the Formula 1™-derived Brake Steer system, designed to aid cornering through the application of braking force to the inside rear wheel. This enables later braking into corners, and earlier application of power on exit.
The 540C features a newly-developed suspension system ensuring enhanced levels of driver engagement and refinement on both road and track. The system uses front and rear anti-rollbars Formula 1™- style dual wishbones and independent adaptive dampers. The damper tuning has been revised on 540C, over 570S, with more focus on day-to-day road driving. Adaptive dampers offer control over bump and rebound settings using the familiar McLaren ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ handling settings, with the Sports Series having its own unique damper settings. In ‘Normal’ mode, the system provides a refined yet engaging ride, while the ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ settings allow a greater level of focus and engagement when required. Twin damper valves ensure precise control, while dual wishbone suspension provides optimised levels of ride quality and driver feedback.
The interior of the Sports Series has been created with a focus on space and ergonomics, offering great outward visibility and interior space for occupants and their belongings. Organic curves carried inside from the exterior design bring delicate tension without aggression to ensure the cabin remains a welcoming environment.
Inside the cabin, the 540C Coupé is luxuriously appointed with leather upholstery to the seats, dashboard and lower doors as standard. The ‘floating’ centre console features a seven-inch IRIS touchscreen which controls all elements of the infotainment system. The air conditioning controls are also incorporated, as first seen on the McLaren P1™, minimising switchgear in the cabin. The touchscreen also controls the standard DAB digital radio, as well as satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephony and media streaming, voice activation and the audio media player. The IRIS system also includes the electronic owner’s manual.
The McLaren 540C Coupé is the second model to join the Sports Series, and sits alongside the 570S Coupé. Both models are available to order from the dedicated global McLaren retail network, operating in every major automotive market, in more than 30 countries. Pricing for the 540C Coupé starts from £126,000.
McLAREN 540C TECHNICAL STATISTICS
PERFORMANCE
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 3.5 seconds |
| 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) | 10.5 seconds |
| Top speed | 320 km/h (199 mph) |
| Power-to-weight | 412PS per tonne |
ENGINE & POWERTRAIN
| Engine configuration | V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc |
| Power | 540PS (533 bhp) @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 540Nm (398 lb ft) @ 3,500-6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 7 Speed SSG |
| CO2 | 258 g/km |
| Economy | 25.5 mpg (EU combined) |
| Engine lubricant | Mobil 1 New Life™ 0W-40 |
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
| Dry weight | 1,311 kg (2,890lbs) with lightweight options |
| Weight distribution (f / r) | 42 / 58 |
| Length | 4,530mm |
| Width | 2,095mm |
| Height | 1,202mm |
Ford today unveiled the all-new GT, an ultra-high-performance supercar that serves as a technology showcase for top EcoBoost® performance, aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction.
The GT is one of more than 12 new Ford Performance vehicles coming by 2020. It joins Focus RS, F-150 Raptor, Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R in the growing Ford Performance lineup.
Beginning production late next year, the GT hits the road in select global markets to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford GT race cars placing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“As we at Ford drive innovation into every part of our business, it’s worth remembering that our first innovation as a company was not in a laboratory, but on the racetrack,” said Mark Fields, Ford president and chief executive officer, referring to Henry Ford’s win of a 1901 car race that inspired financial backers to invest in his company. “We are passionate about innovation through performance and creating vehicles that make people’s hearts pound.”
The all-new GT supercar features rear-wheel drive, a mid-mounted engine, and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell. It is propelled by the most powerful EcoBoost production engine ever – a next-generation twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 producing more than 600 horsepower.
The GT makes extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber and aluminum – enabling outstanding acceleration and handling with improved efficiency.
Ford’s commitment to and capability in delivering technologies typically offered only in elite vehicles is evident in the GT. These include advanced active aerodynamics, such as a deployable rear spoiler, and a host of material and technology innovations to help better serve the driver, such as SYNC® 3 – the latest version of Ford’s advanced connectivity system.
“The GT is the ultimate execution of an enthusiast supercar,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “GT includes innovations and technologies that can be applied broadly across Ford’s future product portfolio – another proof point that Ford continues raising the performance bar while ultimately improving vehicles for all of our customers.”
Carbon fiber innovation
Few innovations provide a more wide-ranging performance and efficiency advantage than reducing weight. All factors of a vehicle’s capabilities – acceleration, handling, braking, safety, efficiency – can improve through the use of advanced, lighter materials.
The all-new GT features advanced lightweight composites, which will help serve Ford’s entire product lineup moving forward. With the broad application of structural carbon fiber elements, the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car.
Anchored by a carbon fiber passenger cell, the GT features aluminum front and rear subframes encapsulated in structural carbon fiber body panels. Carbon fiber is one of the world’s strongest materials for its mass – enabling an ultra-stiff foundation for chassis components, while creating a lighter overall package for increased dynamic performance and efficiency.
Most powerful production EcoBoost ever
Ford EcoBoost technology is available in every new Ford car, utility and light-duty pickup in North America beginning this year.
EcoBoost engines power a growing number of Ford performance models, including the new Mustang, just-announced F-150 Raptor, as well as Fiesta ST and Focus ST.
Based on the same race-proven engine architecture serving Ford’s IMSA Daytona Prototype endurance racing efforts, the next-generation twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 in the GT features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics.
The engine demonstrates remarkable efficiency – a key attribute of its endurance racing-derived powertrain, where exceptional performance combined with efficiency is a critical competitive advantage.
Ford’s twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 raced to three wins in its first season of the IMSA TUDOR United SportsCar Championship in 2014, including a win in the prestigious 12 Hours of Sebring, along with seven podiums over more than 15,000 endurance racing miles.
The GT features an all-new, port/direct dual fuel-injection setup to improve engine response, plus a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain. The twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 will be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle for near-instantaneous gear changes and exceptional driver control.
Aero innovation gets active
Aerodynamic efficiency is at the heart of the GT design, actively reducing drag while aiding downforce and stability.
From its optimum tear-drop shape to its aircraft-inspired fuselage and visibility-enhancing curved windshield, every slope and shape is designed to minimize drag and optimize downforce.
Although each surface on the GT is functionally crafted to manage airflow, it also features fully active aerodynamic components to improve braking, handling and stability.
An active rear spoiler is keyed to both speed and driver input, reactively deploying and adjusting its height and/or pitch angle depending on conditions.
Designed for purpose
While it shares a legacy with classic Ford racing and performance cars, GT is a fully contemporary and functional shape that communicates modernity and pure beauty.
The state-of-the-art chassis is suspended by an active racing-style torsion bar and pushrod suspension, with adjustable ride height. The 20-inch wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires featuring a unique compound and structure designed specifically for the Ford GT. Multi-spoke wheels encircle carbon-ceramic brake discs at all four corners.
The narrow-profile canopy reduces frontal area and caps a purposeful interior that provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure control, comfort and safety. The two-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbon fiber passenger cell.
This configuration significantly reduces seating hardware and weight, and provides a consistent and direct sensory connection to the chassis. The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver statures.
An F1-style steering wheel integrates all necessary driver controls, creating a stalkless steering column that allows uncluttered access to the transmission paddle-shift controls. A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving environments and different driving modes.
“While we hope enthusiasts rejoice about this all-new GT, all Ford customers will benefit from the ultimate performance Ford and its new-generation innovations,” said Nair.
| VIN | WP0AD29917S783821 |
| Exterior | [L041] Black |
| Interior | [LE] Stone Grey Full Leather |
| Motor | 3.6 L Turbocharged H4 rated at 480 bhp |
| Gearbox | [G975] 6-Speed Manual |
| Exterior Condition | Excellent (2+) |
| Interior Condition | Outstanding (1) |
| Drivetrain | Excellent (2+ ) |
| Braking | Excellent (2) |
| Suspension/Ride | Excellent (2) |
| Tires/wheels | Very Good (3+) |
THE EVERYDAY SUPERCAR. Porsche Turbo. For four decades, those two words have evoked breathtaking performance, meticulous engineering and an assertive, sometimes audacious sense of style that has never been equaled. While each generation of the 911 Turbo aimed to one-up the previous one, perhaps the greatest leap came with the 997 model Turbo in 2007. It not only sported impressive numbers like 480 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque (with the Sports Chrono package), but it was the way in which that performance was applied. Porsche’s new Variable Turbine Geometry all but eliminated turbo lag and back pressure, thus the powerband of the twin-turbo 3.6-litre motor was unlike anything before in a turbocharged performance car (peak torque 1,950-5,000 RPM), virtually equal to one that is normally aspirated. Mated to a pinpoint 6-speed gearbox—the last generation to feature a manual—and the 997 Turbo Coupe delivers an exhilarating, driver-oriented experience. The 911 Turbo presented here is well optioned to further enhance that, including:
Massive Bridgestone Potenzas with very good tread (~75% remaining) surround the stock 19″ Turbo alloy wheels OR Gloss Black 19″ Tech Art Alloys. Combined with the Turbo Coupe’s standard adaptive AWD, 350mm inner-vented disc brakes with multi-piston monobloc calipers, and an alphabet soup’s worth of electronic driving aids, it makes for a incredibly civilized canyon carver or track-day darling.
OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about this 2007 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe is the deep, brilliant shine of its all-original Black paint. It is near flawless and the pampering given by its two owners is evident in every detail. Likewise, the interior is showroom fresh. The full leather upholstery shows virtually no wear and is more indicative of a car with test-drive miles than one that’s been enjoyed for more than 60K. Again it’s a testament to the care it’s been given its entire life. Mechanically, it benefits from a fresh major service and is entirely free of leaks, smoke and unusual noises. Clutch and gearbox are taut with no signs of wear. The 997 Turbo’s electronic, variable-assisted steering is precise with no slop, while the stock suspension provides superb feedback, perfectly balancing the car’s blistering performance. The optional Tech Art wheels are flawless while the stock Turbo alloys show only one minor rash on one wheel. Both sets are shod with Bridgestone Potenzas, with very good tread on both (Turbo alloys ~75%; Tech Arts ~%70). This 911 Turbo Coupe truly is the best of both worlds. It presents like a garage queen, but fully recognizes—at its soul—that it is a Porsche and isn’t the least bit shy about being driven.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
In many ways, the Porsche 997 Turbo Coupe is the materialization of all things Porsche. It unmistakably carries the legacy of Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche’s ideal of the “formally harmonious product” he envisioned when designing the 911, yet it is an awe-inspiring marvel of technology at the same time. The combination of its revolutionary Variable Turbine Geometry combined with a host of electronic driver aids like adaptive all-wheel-drive, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), Enhanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM), and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), to name a few, made this the most drivable turbocharged performance car ever. It is brute power delivered through an unprecedented range. It invites the driver to explore its limits but can also keep itself perfectly in check, should the driver choose not to challenge their abilities. Porsche 911 Twin Turbo Coupe No. 3821 takes that even further with the added torques from its Sports Chrono Plus package, as well other driver-oriented options like Adaptive Sports Seats and a thicker, multi-function three-spoke steering wheel. Despite the technological brilliance of the PDK gearbox found in the 997.2 and 991, there is and never will be a substitute for the supple yet crisp shifts of its optional short shifter working through manual gears. It is neck-snappingly quick—3.7 seconds to 60 MPH and a top speed of 193 MPH—putting it within a car’s length of exotics like the Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini Murcielago and McLaren MP4-12C. Yet it’s a car that is equally at home hauling bags of mulch with pygmy relatives in the back seats. Creature comforts like cold air conditioning, power windows and sunroof, and a full leather interior make for a pleasant cockpit. Ride is firm but not punishing, steering easy at lower speeds without losing road feel, and fuel economy is decent to boot. Maintenance costs are more akin to its Audi and Volkswagen cousins than the supercars it is compared to on spec sheets. It is a car that provides staggering performance in a real-world package. Formally harmonious, you might say.
Saleen Automotive Inc. (OTCQB: SLNN) Monterey, CA – (August 17, 2014)
From the same automotive performance brand that brought the true American Supercar, the S7, Saleen has once again set precedence for a vehicle of epic proportions. The Tesla Model S based Saleen FOURSIXTEEN performance electric car was shown for the first time at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
“Tesla has created an entirely new class of American automobile”, explained Steve Saleen. “There are many similarities to this and how Ford created the ‘pony car’ class in 1964 with the Mustang, which is how these vehicles stand out from the rest of the pack.”
Standing out from the pack is Saleen’s specialty. Whether it’s their winning racing pedigree, expertly engineered Saleen vehicles, or instantly recognizable design. The Saleen legacy is perfectly packaged into the FOURSIXTEEN Model S and hinges on the mantra for the performance luxury electric car that ‘status quo won’t do’.
Purposefully advanced design
From the outside, the FOURSIXTEEN is a harmonious blend of aerodynamic aggressiveness and subtle classiness. Applying the same championship Saleen DNA used over the last three decades, Saleen has created a car that can drive the streets of Monaco and set records at Laguna Seca. From the Saleen crafted front fascia to the carbon fiber rear diffuser, the FOURSIXTEEN aerodynamic design is as inspired as it is functional.
Front aero management vents helps ensure that the Saleen FOURSIXTEEN model maintains a low pressure field as air acceleration increases around the chassis. Assisting the lower aero management is the unique V-shaped hood architecture efficiently directing hot air away from the drivetrain cooling system all while generating valuable downforce across the front section.
The rear fascia design finalizes the aerodynamic system as air moves across the cabin and onto the Saleen designed high-downforce decklid mounted spoiler. Mid-chassis air is directed across the carbon fiber accents stretching between the taillights. Supplying rear wake diffusion is a Saleen diffuser design that boosts aerodynamic downforce capability.
Electrified Performance
Just like the rest of the Saleen lineup, this car is more than just an eye catching aerodynamic package. Propelling the new FOURSIXTEEN is the 3-phase, four pole AC induction motor and copper rotor with the upgraded Saleen drivetrain including an all-new 11.39:1 final gear ratio for quicker acceleration. Also new for the FOURSIXTEEN is a Saleen specific MAXGRIPTM locking differential that allows each wheel to efficiently apply rotational force and maximize traction and grip in performance environments. All of the Saleen engineered driveline components increase efficiencies in torque management, give a track capable throttle response, and provide faster acceleration. Overall the FOURSIXTEEN is a well-balanced vehicle and sounds great too!
Electric motor cooling has also been made more productive from the Saleen high-efficiency drivetrain cooling system. Comprising the system is a larger volume radiator, upsampled cooling fans, and a high-flow water pump to help maintain consistent temperatures in more stressful performance applications.
“Electric drivetrains are unique in that they can generate an incredible amount of torque at zero RPM”, detailed Sven Etzelsberger, VP Advanced Engineering. “Our challenge was really to find methods to manage the energy that is generated by the electric motor and rotor assembly. With the FOURSIXTEEN we have successfully found a comprehensive solution to increase performance and harness power in an efficient manner.”
Suspension
Saleen’s design and engineering teams worked together to ensure a functional suspension that doesn’t sacrifice ride quality. The Saleen specific S4 track-calibrated suspension includes a monotube coilover, which works in conjunction with an S4 sway bar setup to increase cornering agility without sacrificing ride quality. The FOURSIXTEEN suspension system can also be ordered in a fully adjustable configuration, allowing the driver to easily increase stiffness for a day at the track and revert to a more streetable setting with simple adjustments.
The Stability Control System has also undergone a track tested performance enhancement. A software change gives the FOURSIXTEEN better cornering response and drivability by allowing the driver to maintain power as traction and vehicle weight distribution change.
Working together with the stability control software, wheel, tire, and S4 suspension system are the Saleen-specific brakes. The standard brake package in the FOURSIXTEEN include 14” 2-piece aluminum hat vented rotors and multi-piston front calipers with performance brake pads. An optional upgrade is the carbon ceramic disc brake system for maximum braking, cooling, and weight reduction. Saleen designed wheels fill out the wheel openings and add an air of performance luxury. All of this combined with the ZR-spec tires make sure the car will hug the corners, accelerate true in the straights, and stop effortlessly when needed.
Supercar inspired interior
The interior refinements of the Saleen FOURSIXTEEN are abundant. From the handpicked leather palette to the carbon fiber dash accents, the cabin environment is as supercar stylish as it is functionally chic. Starting with the seating, black leather is contrasted by perforated leather accents and Alcantara suede inlays providing a true luxury atmosphere.
“Our theme of an electric four-seat supercar really comes to life with the interior of this car”, said Sean Smith, Design Director. “Our design team spent a lot of time evaluating different materials, fitments, and finishes to accomplish the refined interior design of the FOURSIXTEEN while still keeping the modern sports car inspiration intact. I think the result is appropriate for this new class of electric American performance cars.”
A new center console has also been integrated into the interior redesign. This functional aspect gives the driver and front passenger additional center storage, a personal electronic device pocket, and a much needed cupholder all within arm’s reach.
Continuing the track-inspired exterior enhancements, the front and rear seating have been remolded to produce four full bucket seats complete with added bolstering to create a discerning interior that is fittingly built around the driver and passengers. Marrying the seating design to the rest of the cockpit are the Saleen tailor-made door panels and a full leather-wrapped dash both artistically complimented with hand sewn contrast stitching. The final stroke of interior craftsmanship draws attention to the seat shells which have been color matched to the black leather, creating a dynamic modern feel in the rear cabin.
Availability, Pricing and Additional Information
MSRP for the FOURSIXTEEN model is set to start at $152,000 for the complete vehicle, which includes the base P85Model S sedan. This is priced before existing state and federal EV incentives which can range from $7,500 to $15,000 depending on the buyers state (i.e. A California resident would pay $142,000.00).
Warranties are also included on all new Saleen vehicles, components, and labor. Each newly purchased Saleen FOURSIXTEEN will include a 4-year / 50,000 mile warranty to match the manufacturer backed limited warranty.
Purchases for this all new electric vehicle can be placed by contacting Saleen directly for an expedited ordering process of the Saleen FOURSIXTEEN. Orders are now being taken for the FOURSIXTEEN with delivery 6-8 weeks following order confirmation and receipt.
Alternatively, individual FOURSIXTEEN components are also available for Model S owners that are looking to just add a touch of performance or styling to their current vehicle without the desire for a serialized version. Installation can be scheduled through the Saleen Performance Parts division. For more information visit www.saleen.com
Maranello, 8th March 2013 – Today saw the official inauguration at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello of the “Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth” exhibition which includes the new LaFerrari, unveiled just a couple of days ago at the Geneva Motor Show, as well as all of the other limited edition special series cars that helped establish the Prancing Horse legend.
Opened by Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, “Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth” retraces the story of all of the limited edition special series models built by Ferrari, starting with the 250 GTO, including an example of the 1964 version, and continuing with the 1984 GTO, the F40, the F50 and the Enzo, all the way up to the new model which has been named the LaFerrari as it epitomises the sweeping excellence for which the Maranello marque is renowned.
Parallel to the limited edition road cars will be the Formula 1 cars that inspired Ferrari’s design in various eras, as well as special track and competition-oriented models, such as the GTO Evoluzione, the F40 Competizione, the 599XX and the FXX.
A large section of the exhibition is devoted to the development of the LaFerrari, illustrating both its technical content and styling. The entire process from the car’s initial conception to the approval of the final car is traced, in fact, and visitors also have the opportunity to see two full-scale models in addition to the various stages the car went through in its design and development.
Information
The exhibition runs until September 30th. The Museum is open to the public between the hours of 9.30 and 18.00 until May 1st after which date it closes at 19.00. Tickets can be booked online at www.museoferrari.com, as can guided tours at museo@ferrari.com.
Special evenings at the Museum can also be booked by private and corporate groups on request at: eventimuseo@ferrari.com. The Skira publisher has created a large and wonderfully rich catalogue especially for the exhibition. It is on sale in the Museum in
Maranello.
THE LIMITED EDITION SPECIAL SERIES CARS
250 GTO
Probably the most famous of all Ferrari cars, the 250 GTO was built from 1962 to 1964.
With just 36 vehicles produced – all of which are still extant – the 250 GTO ruled on the track and on the road, winning the GT Manufacturers’ International Championship three years in a row. GTO stands for the category it raced in: in order to compete, a minimum of
100 vehicles had to be built in a year. When the Federation granted homologation as an evolution of the short-wheelbase 250 GT, it automatically became the 250 GTO, i.e., the homologated GT (GT Omologata).
It proved to be invincible with its 2953 cc V12, an evolution of the Colombo engine. It featured 300 hp, high torque even at low rpm and a 5-speed transmission, which represented a major innovation for the period. Another two key factors that contributed to the success of the 250 GTO was its dry weight of just 880 kg, and its superior agility.
Today its value has rocketed to over $20 million.
GTO
Designed for “Group B” races, the GTO project dates back to 1983. The 308 was used as the starting point for the project. The steel chassis was reinforced and work was done on thewheelbase, tracks and wheel size. A radical approach was taken for the twin-turbo V8 engine, with two heat exchangers, just like a F1 car, and the aerodynamics were improved by adding large spoilers. The car was unveiled in 1984 as a road-going vehicle as, in themeantime, the FIA had abandoned Group B racing. It was a resounding success, and instead of the planned 200 vehicles, production reached 272 units (which is nonetheless a small volume). This makes it rare and valuable today.
F40
The unexpected success of the GTO revealed the huge potential for on-road cars built using avant-garde technologies developed for racing. Unveiled at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show, the car’s minimalist passenger compartment features only what is strictly needed for driving.
The chassis is made from steel incorporating composite materials and Kevlar. Characterised by the large rear spoiler, the bodywork is made from composite materials. The 478 hp twinturbo engine – 80 hp more than the GTO – allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 324 km/h – simply phenomenal for the time. Although it was announced that only 400 vehicles would be produced, the success was so overwhelming that Ferrari had to build 1315 cars over five years!
F50
The 50 in the name of this model represents the 50th anniversary of Ferrari, which fell in 1997. The model was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1995 and was designed at the same time as the last Ferrari sport prototype to be built in Maranello: the 333 SP. The inspiration for this new milestone in Ferrari technology came once again from the world of F1: a perfect combination of a carbon-fibre bodyshell and a V12 engine, just like a singleseater. In addition, just like a F1 car, the chassis integrated the engine as a stressed member. The vehicle’s design was extremely original for the time, and features a removable hardtop that can be lodged on board. With only 349 vehicles produced, the F50 is much sought-after by collectors.
Enzo Ferrari
The Enzo dates back to the years of consecutive victories in the Drivers’ and Constructors’ F1 World Championships. It was 2002, and the name of the new model served as a promise of excellence. Even the styling was inspired by F1 and the Enzo was the first road car with a manettino selector on the steering wheel to adjust the handling depending on the use of the car and road conditions. The lightweight and compact V12 engine and the vehicle dynamics systems react to inputs from the manettino, just like on the single-seaters. The system was developed from the technique used by Schumacher to change the car setup in every bend, requiring commands capable of adjusting car setup several times during the same lap. This is how the modern F1 steering wheel and the manettino, as the team and driver called it, were developed.
THE OTHER CARS IN THE EXHIBITION
599XX Evo
The 599 is not officially a supercar, but the XX version definitely belongs to this elite category, for both technical and symbolic reasons. Ferrari has an extraordinary tradition of creating high-performance front-engine vehicles. The 250 GTO is the most significant of these, but it is not the only one. It is interesting to see two berlinettas – both so technologically advanced and with outstanding track performance – side by side, separated by 50 years. At its debut, the 599XX broke the lap record on the famous and challenging Nordschleife, the 22.8 km version of the Nürgburgring track.
Technically speaking, the 599XX is an example of excellence, featuring a 730 hp aspirated V12 engine, with exceptional handling thanks to the weight distribution – 47% on the front and 53% on the rear – and to the sophisticated electronic dynamic controls system. The aerodynamic shape enhanced by the mobile rear spoiler contributes to achieving this outstanding performance. It was built specifically for track use.
GTO Evoluzione
The extraordinary commercial success enjoyed by the GTO instantly revealed to Ferrari the huge opportunities afforded by placing an extremely sporty road car at its clients’ disposal. This planted the seed for the concept of the F40, the GTO Evoluzione which, however, never actually raced and remained a development model.
F40 Competizione
The F40’s design and characteristics absolutely begged for a track version to be developed. The Ferrari importers that traditionally took part in endurance racing found the answer to their dreams in the evolution mooted by specialist Michelotto which had already made important contributions on the racing development of the likes of the 308 GTB, for instance. The car first saw the light of day in 1989 but its development continued until the end of the1990s yielding record results.
FXX
Ferrari launched a uniquely innovative technical collaboration programme for its most loyal and enthusiastic clients centring around the prototype FXX. The latter car was the most advanced GT ever created by Maranello and its mission was to involve the marque’s most valued owners as Client-Test Drivers.
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