Ferrari’s Special Projects initiative allows the brand’s most devoted clientele to order a bespoke vehicle. The most recent addition to this exclusive series is the SP-8, which was unveiled this week.
The unveiling took place at Ferrari’s Finali Mondiali event, an annual gathering marking the conclusion of the motorsport season. The event, currently taking place at the Mugello Circuit in Italy, also served as the launching platform for the 296 Challenge race car.
The SP-8 has its foundations in the Ferrari F8 Spider, initially introduced in 2019. Its design takes cues from the Daytona SP3, a limited-edition, V-12-powered Ferrari model that was produced in a limited run of just 599 vehicles last year.
The SP-8 retains only the fundamental layout, chassis, and powertrain from the original F8 Spider. The rest has been customized, including foregoing the retractable hard-top roof of the F8 Spider, thereby transforming the SP-8 into a genuine roadster. Where the retractable roof mechanism once was, there now exists a deck featuring dual air intakes. Ferrari has indicated that the design underwent rigorous wind tunnel and track tests to ascertain high-speed driving comfort.
Unconventional elements for a Ferrari also feature in the SP-8, such as quadrilateral exhaust tips, a cast aluminum grille created with 3D-printed molds, and a two-toned color scheme. This includes a specialized silver finish, referred to as Argento Micalizzato, at the rear, and exposed carbon fiber at the front.
The wheel design for the SP-8 is customized and takes inspiration from classic wheel designs seen on Ferrari’s sports prototype race cars and the iconic F40 model. These wheels are fastened with center locks, a feature generally reserved for race cars and Ferrari’s more extreme models.
The interior boasts blue Alcantara trim and includes a manual gate-style shifter for the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This particular design was first introduced by Ferrari in 2019 with the SF90 Stradale.
Regarding powertrain, Ferrari maintains the original specifications in its Special Projects vehicles. Consequently, the SP-8 is driven by a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8 engine that produces up to 710 horsepower. This is sufficient to propel the F8 Spider to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 211 mph—performance statistics likely similar for the SP-8.
After its initial presentation at the Finali Mondiali, the SP-8 will be showcased at Ferrari’s museum in Maranello, Italy until March 2024. Following this exhibition period, the vehicle is slated for delivery to its owner, who resides in China.
The Special Projects initiative by Ferrari yields one-of-a-kind vehicles for its most committed customers, as well as limited-production models like the previously mentioned Daytona SP3. The typical lead time for these customized vehicles is approximately two years, during which the customer remains closely engaged in the development process. Eligibility for this program requires ownership of multiple Ferraris and prospective clients should anticipate expenditure in the range of several million dollars.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ferrari SP-8
What is the Ferrari SP-8?
The Ferrari SP-8 is a bespoke supercar that is the latest addition to Ferrari’s Special Projects series. It was unveiled during the brand’s Finali Mondiali event, currently taking place at the Mugello Circuit in Italy.
What event marked the debut of the Ferrari SP-8?
The Ferrari SP-8 made its debut at Ferrari’s Finali Mondiali event, an annual celebration marking the end of the motorsport season.
On what existing model is the SP-8 based?
The SP-8 is based on the Ferrari F8 Spider, which was initially introduced in 2019. However, it has undergone extensive customization, retaining only the fundamental layout, chassis, and powertrain from the original F8 Spider.
What sets the design of the SP-8 apart?
The design of the SP-8 takes inspiration from the limited-edition, V-12-powered Daytona SP3. It features unconventional elements for a Ferrari, such as quadrilateral exhaust tips, a cast aluminum grille, and a specialized two-toned color scheme.
What engine powers the Ferrari SP-8?
The Ferrari SP-8 is equipped with a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8 engine that produces a peak output of 710 horsepower.
Where will the SP-8 be displayed after its debut?
After its initial presentation at the Finali Mondiali, the SP-8 will be showcased at Ferrari’s museum in Maranello, Italy until March 2024.
What is the eligibility criteria for Ferrari’s Special Projects program?
To be eligible for Ferrari’s Special Projects program, customers must already own multiple Ferraris. The program results in one-of-a-kind vehicles and involves the customer closely in the development process over an approximate two-year period.
How much does a Special Projects car like the SP-8 cost?
While the exact cost is not disclosed, prospective clients should anticipate expenditures in the range of several million dollars to commission a bespoke vehicle through Ferrari’s Special Projects program.
More about Ferrari SP-8
- Ferrari Official Site
- Finali Mondiali Event
- Ferrari F8 Spider Overview
- Daytona SP3 Limited Edition
- Ferrari’s Maranello Museum
- Ferrari SF90 Stradale
- Mugello Circuit
- Automotive Design and Aerodynamics
- High-Performance Vehicles Market Analysis
10 comments
Unveiled at Finali Mondiali? Perfect stage for a car like this. No better way to close the motorsport season.
Love that they’re using 3D printing for the grille mold. It’s 2023, tech should be a part of these cars.
several million dollars and a two year wait? This is clearly for the ultra high-net-worth individuals. No small commitment here.
Only on display till March 2024, then off to China. Wish I could see it in person before it’s gone.
Man, the design cues from the Daytona are spot on. Really makes the SP-8 standout even more.
The SP-8 not havin the retractable hard-top makes it a true roadster. It’s all about the experience, people.
Wow, a 710hp V-8 in a Ferrari thats got all the style of the Daytona SP3? Sign me up!
So it’s basically an F8 Spider but on steriods huh. Interesting.
Another gas guzzler but it’s Ferrari, what did we expect. Still, the tech and design are really somethin else.
two years to complete and you gotta already own multiple Ferraris? Talk about an exclusive club.