1989 Ferrari F40 Coupe

The Ferrari F40 was the final project under the direction of Enzo Ferrari prior to his death in 1988. It was built to commemorate the Italian carmaker's 40th anniversary and was introduced in 1987. The mid-mounted V8 engine displaced 2936cc and enhanced with twin-turbochargers. It produced 478 bhp and 426 lb-ft of torque, giving the Berlinetta coupe a 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph.

The Ferrari F40 was mechanically based on the racing version of the 288 GTO, the GTO Evoluzione. After the elimination of Group B racing, however, Ferrari was left with a handful of Evoluzione, which they later used to develop the F40. The race-bred heritage is evident in its lack of sound-deadening measures, anti-lock brakes, and steering assist.

The design of the F40 was created under the direction of Leonardo Fioravanti, who was also responsible for the 288 GTO, Din 206 and 246 GT, 512 Berlinetta Boxer, and the Daytona. The initial wedge shape was further enhanced and refined by Pininfarina through wind tunnel testing for optimum downforce and low drag.



The factory initially planned for producing 400 examples, but the car proved far more popular than anticipated and during its production run, lasting from 1987 through 1992, a total of 1,311 Fords were built. All examples were left-hand drive and painted in Rossa Corsa.

This example was completed at the Maranello-based Ferrari Works in 1989. It is a European-spec F40 example that was slotted for the home-market. It was delivered to the first owner in February of 1989 than an official Ferrari agency. It is believed to have left the factory with a six-point racing seatbelt harness and sports seats.

Several years later, the car was sold to a German enthusiast, before it was exported to the Japan. During the past 22 years, it is believed that this car has had just two owners. Currently, it has covered less than 4,500 kilometers.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2016