Ferrari SP-8 is a one-off supercar based on the F8 Spider

Kenneth John Published: October 27, 2023, 12:42 PM IST

The Ferrari SP-8 is the automaker's most recent one-of-a-kind production, commissioned by a customer in Taiwan. The car's name honours its 3.9-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, one of the most highly praised power units in history and four-time winner of the coveted Engine of the Year (IEOTY) award. The SP-8 is also called after the number eight, which is a fortunate number in Chinese, as well as a reference to the car's V8 engine and the F8 chassis lying beneath.

Ferrari SP-8: Design

The roofless design of the SP-8 transforms it into a thoroughbred two-seater roadster, emphasizing its athletic nature and the instantly thrilling visual and en plein air driving experience it provides. This concept necessitated substantial aerodynamic refinement using a mix of CFD simulations, wind tunnel testing, and track testing.

The carbon fibre front end has been restyled with slimmer headlamps and a broader grille, which improves airflow to the front radiators and gives the vehicle a more aggressive appearance. This section has been left unpainted to contrast with the matte grey rear end. The special five-spoke wheels, according to Ferrari, are a modern spin on the brand's iconic prototypes while also harkening back to the alloy wheels of the F40.

Ferrari SP-8: Powertrain

A 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine sits behind the passenger compartment. It produces 720PS at 7,000rpm and 770Nm at 3,250rpm when taken directly from the F8 donor car.

A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox drives the rear wheels. Ferrari has not commented on performance, although the F8 Tributo can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 2.9 seconds.

Ferrari SP-8: Interior

The most important interior modification is the revamped central console, which now houses the F1 gearbox commands, which have been present in the Ferrari lineup since the launch of the SF90 Stradale. This required adapting the now-iconic shift-gate for this particular use. The seats are completed in laser-etched Navy Blue Alcantara and draped in gradient effect material, with carpeting in an iridescent twill fabric.

The SP-8 is presently on exhibit at the Mugello Circuit in Mugello, Italy, about an hour's drive from Florence. It will be relocated to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello at the end of the month and will remain on display until March 2024.