Roadster Redux
In 1948, Ferrari introduced the 166 MM, an open-top two-seater designed for long-distance endurance runs. When Italian industrialist Gianni Agnelli laid eyes on the car’s long hood and sleek body coachbuilt by Carrozzeria Touring, he reportedly dubbed it barchetta, Italian for “little boat.” Named for the 166 cc displacement of its V-12 engine and the famous Mille Miglia contest, the 166 MM went on to win that race as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Targa Florio, and the Spa 24 Hours. A few years later, Ferrari introduced the Monza, a series of competitive cars powered by a new generation of four-cylinder engines.
To celebrate these storied racers, Ferrari has produced the Monza SP1 and SP2, a pair of contemporary barchettas that will be limited to 499 examples combined. Fitted either with one (SP1) or two (SP2) seats, these lightweight supercars are minimalist and muscular and, in true barchetta style, lack a windshield or roof. The carbon-fibre body consists of two shells, a lower hull, and an upper cover, following a Ferrari motif that has been used throughout the brand’s history. Thoroughly modern touches complement the roadsters’ timeless shape, including staggered 21-inch wheels and a new taillight design that appears as a single bar across the rear. The pared-down cockpit is fitted with carbon-fibre racing seats covered in leather, and exposed carbon-fibre trim.
Powered by an 809 hp, 6.5-liter V-12 engine, derived from the 812 Superfast, the Monza models will have the highest power-to-weight ratio of any Ferrari ever made. Working in tandem with the dual-clutch transmission and patented aerodynamic technology, the cars can go from zero to 100km/hr in 2.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of about 299km/hr.
Helping Monza drivers channel the essence of 1950s racing are fashion houses Berluti and Loro Piana, who have created companion clothing pieces especially for the new Ferraris. Berluti’s helmet is made from carbon fibre and designed specifically for driving in the open-top Monza. Lace-up oxfords, available in black or brown, are of Venezia leather with a sole made from the same carbon-fibre fabric used on Ferrari’s road cars. A retro-inspired jacket and matching trousers from Loro Piana are done in dark gray with piping in Ferrari’s famous Rosso Corsa. The ensemble also includes a sweater and scarf made of micro-fine merino wool, as well as a rain-resistant cap. All fit perfectly inside two included Berluti bags, designed to echo the Monza form.
Ferrari says all examples of the US$1.8 million (about RM7.4 million) Monza SP1 and SP2 are already spoken for.
