A new Ferrari One-Off based on 812 GTS architecture
Ferrari SP51
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The Special Projects programme aims to produce one-of-a-kind Ferraris, or "One-Offs," which are distinguished by an individual design created in accordance with the specifications of the client, who so becomes the owner of a unique model.
Each project starts with an idea presented by the client and is developed with a team of designers from Ferrari's Styling Centre.
The entire process takes around two years on average, during which time the client is closely involved in the design and verification phases.
This very special Ferrari, the SP51, was created for a loyal client and significant collector based in Taiwan who has had Maranello's create their first front-engined V12 spider in 50 years.
The result? A unique and beautiful Ferrari engineered to the same levels of excellence that characterise all of Maranello’s cars.
FERRARI SP51: THE 812 GTS-INSPIRED ROADSTER
The SP51, like all of the SP series are bespoke and crafted to client specifications, making them the very pinnacle of Ferrari’s customisation scope and range.
The SP51 is a front-engined V12 spider created by the Flavio Manzoni-led Ferrari Styling Centre. Its architecture, chassis, and engine are all derived from the outstanding 812 GTS platform.
The most noticeable feature at first glance is its complete lack of a roof, which transforms it into a real roadster in every way it's fascinating visually.
Naturally, the SP51's aerodynamics needed to be fine-tuned through a process involving CFD calculations, wind tunnel testing, and dynamic testing to ensure not just the utmost in interior comfort but also the same level of acoustic comfort and wind feel as the vehicle that served as its inspiration.
A Ferrari One-Off designed around its owner’s vision
The SP51's flawlessly muscular, undulating surfaces contribute to its powerful yet harmonious style.
The significant usage of naked carbon fibre on both the outside and interior of the vehicle, its simultaneously contemporary, sinuous, and sensual. The trim on the bonnet is particularly eye-catching since it frames the two air vents in a dynamic and aggressive way.
The beautiful Rosso Passionale three-layer paintwork which was created especially for the car gives it an exquisite yet imposing character. This effect is strengthened by the blue and white livery, which runs the length of the car which was inspired by a legendary 1955 Ferrari 410 S.
Distinctive headlights instantly identify it and give it a tremendous road presence. The SP51's wheels, which have carbon-fibre wing shapes on each spoke and a clever tone-on-tone diamond-cut finish on the forward-facing area, are also remarkable.
The taillights recessed below the spoiler and the rear of the automobile are dominated by an arching theme. Two flying buttresses are directly behind the cabin are visually softened by two deep carbon-fiber scoops. A transverse carbon-fibre wing with a profile that folds over the buttresses extends between these two components.
In a homage to Ferrari's early 1960s Sports Prototypes, the approach produced an effect that is somewhat reminiscent of a Targa-type car in which the flying bridge neatly conceals the anti-roll hoop.
The cabin is truly special. Even for Ferrari new heights of craftsmanship and imagination have been reached here, which has to be the very peak of the rigorous design and consultation process, in which the customer was involved at every step.
The decision to employ the same Rosso Passionale body-colour as the primary colour for the Alcantara® trim and the creative notion of extending the longitudinal exterior paintwork into the cabin is the centrepiece of it's personalisation.
Its white and blue stripe, flows through the central tunnel and the fascia between the two seats on the firewall, as well as on the steering wheel stitching, creating a sense of seamless continuity between exterior and interior.
The livery is also reflected in the special finish for the door panels, bottom section of the dashboard, and sides of the seats, which consists of a blue Kvadrat® insert with white cross-stitching.
The interior of the vehicle is balanced with glossy carbon-fiber trim, which works beautifully with the Nero Momo Opaco components. Many white embroidered details further accentuate this sartorial elegance (including the Prancing Horse and car logo, also found on the lower rim of the steering wheel).
The SP51 brilliantly retains the signature elegance of its inspiration, the 812 GTS, but pushes the boundaries by offering a whole new way of enjoying en plein air driving.
