Ferrari SP51: Maranello's latest one-off client commission

Ferrari has lifted the curtain on the SP51, the latest commission as part of its super-exclusive One-Off series for its most valuable clients.

The SP51 is underpinned by the existing Ferrari 812 GTS, the convertible version of Ferrari's front-engined twelve-cylinder sports car, and carries over its chassis, 6.5-litre V12 and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

15

While the mechanicals are familiar, the SP51's new skin was penned at the Flavio Manzoni-lead Ferrari Styling Centre. Unlike the 812 GTS donor car, the Ferrari SP51 is a true roadster with no folding roof mechanism or even a temporary pop-in targa panel.

To keep the elements out of the cabin, extensive work was carried out in the aerodynamics department requiring various methods, including; CFD simulation, wind tunnel testing and dynamic testing to ensure in-cabin comfort – while also delivering the acoustic richness and exciting wind feel that customers expect.

15

Its sculpted form looks tremendously dynamic, even at a standstill, with visual intricacy provided by blending exposed carbon fibre with a new three-layer Rosso Passionale paint colour – developed specifically for this car.

The subtle white and blue stripe livery harks back to the 1955 Ferrari 410 S - the last of Ferrari's iconic Lampredi-powered racing cars, driven by the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio and even Carroll Shelby.

The flying buttresses and bridge behind the headrests cleverly conceal a roll-over bar, doubling as a visual nod to Ferrari's prototype racers of the '60s.

15

Inside the cabin, the stem-to-stern white and blue stripe is mirrored, running over the transmission tunnel and between the seats. The SP51's signature rosso passionale colour was also reflected in the Alcantara trim, while the cabin is topped off with bespoke cross-stitching and several detailed embroideries.

The Ferrari SP51 is destined for a longstanding Taiwan-based client, who also happens to be one of Ferrari's leading collectors. Ferrari's One-Off, or 'Special Projects' programme is akin to modern day coachbuilding, with other clients including British guitar icon Eric Clapton, Edward Walson – son of John Walson, inventor of cable television, and New York real-estate mogul Peter Kalikow.

15

Ferrari did not indicate how much the SP51 cost its commissioner, but, as is usually the case with these things, as the old saying goes...if you have to ask.