Ferrari SC40: Paying homage to the F40 with a V6 hybrid heart

The resurrection of an icon

Ferrari’s Special Projects program has always been where the boldest ideas are realized, creating unique machines reserved for the most passionate collectors. Recently, this department has unveiled its latest masterpiece, the Ferrari SC40. This is not only a supercar, but also a deep tribute to the Ferrari F40 – the last legend approved by Enzo Ferrari himself before his death. However, instead of mechanically recreating the past, the SC40 interprets the heritage in the language of the 21st century, with the foundation of the 296 GTB and a powerful V6 plug-in hybrid heart.

The F40 legacy in 21st century form

Under the direction of Flavio Manzoni at the Ferrari Styling Centre, the SC40’s exterior is a harmonious blend of classic and modern. Fans of the F40 will immediately recognise familiar details, but they have been subtly reshaped. The F40’s signature pop-up headlights have been replaced by a slim LED strip that flows into the front air intakes, complying with current safety standards while still giving it a sharp look.

Full view of the Ferrari SC40's exterior design with exclusive Bianco SC40 white paint and F40-inspired aerodynamic details. — The design of the Ferrari SC40 is inspired by the F40 but completely modernized. Photo: Carscoops

On the sides, the classic NACA air intakes are reinterpreted with carbon fiber inserts, combined with a strong horizontal line that extends all the way to the rear of the car. The most iconic element – the F40’s massive fixed wing – is still present on the SC40, albeit in a more compact and seamless way. On the engine compartment lid, Ferrari cleverly recreated the signature transparent Lexan mesh, nestled between the muscular rear wheel arches. The rear of the car borrows the taillights from the 296 GTB, a choice that may be controversial with purists, as the four classic round clusters would probably give it a more “F40-esque” feel. The entire body is dressed in an exclusive Bianco SC40 white paint, paired with two-tone wheels and the traditional yellow prancing horse logo.

Racing car cabin with groundbreaking materials

Stepping into the cockpit, the SC40 retains the overall layout of the 296 GTB but is completely personalized with special materials. The most notable highlight is the extensive use of carbon-kevlar – a choice that appears for the first time on a modern Ferrari. This material is not only super light and durable, but also a direct reference to the F40’s minimalist and lightweight structure. The bespoke bucket seats with embossed SC40 logo, upholstered in red Jacquard technical fabric, contrasts strongly with the charcoal grey Alcantara, creating a space that is both racing and sophisticated.

The Ferrari SC40 interior uses carbon-kevlar materials, red Jacquard fabric seats and gray Alcantara, combining racing style and modern technology. — The cockpit uses carbon-kevlar material, combining racing DNA and technology. Photo: Carscoops

The V6 Hybrid Heart: Legacy or a Turnaround?

This is the biggest difference between the SC40 and the F40 legacy. While the F40 was equipped with the famous twin-turbo V8 engine and a manual gearbox, the SC40 is faithful to the 296 GTB's plug-in hybrid powertrain. This system consists of a twin-turbo 2.9L V6 engine combined with an electric motor, producing a total output of up to 819 horsepower. Although lacking the characteristic roar and pure mechanical feel of the V8 engine, the hybrid powertrain offers undeniable performance advantages. The instant torque from the electric motor helps the car accelerate quickly, while also filling in the turbo lag, making for an exciting and efficient driving experience. Although Ferrari has not released official specifications, the SC40's performance is expected to be similar or better than the 296 GTB, which is already capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.

Unique positioning and collectible value

A product of Special Projects, the Ferrari SC40 is a one-off, created for a very special client. Ferrari has not revealed the price, but it is sure to be in the millions, reflecting its exclusivity, bespoke development process and collectability. The car has been delivered to its owner, but its styling buck is now on display at the Ferrari museum in Maranello, allowing the public to see how it was made.

Conclude

The Ferrari SC40 is a clever and subtle homage. It doesn’t try to replicate the F40, but instead captures the spirit of the legend – minimalism, extreme performance, and bold design – and reinterprets it with Ferrari technology and design language today. While the lack of a V8 may make some nostalgic, the SC40 is a testament to how Enzo Ferrari’s legacy continues to inspire some of the most incredible performance machines.