Ferrari Daytona SP3
As announced three years ago, Ferrari is continuing the Icona model series. These limited edition special models are each inspired by iconic sports and racing cars from the brand’s history. The SP1 and SP2, nicknamed Monza, made the start. These were radically open sports cars with no windshield or roof. The only difference was the number of seats, which was one or two, analogous to the model numbering. Now, at the Finali Mondiali event in Mugello, the Daytona SP3 debuted, its name directly reminiscent of great racing successes at the 24 Hours of Daytona. A special memory here is the 1967 race in which Ferrari crossed the finish line with three cars side by side in the lead. First place went to a 330 P3/4, second to a 330 P4 and third to a 412 P. It was the best performance of the 330 P3 developed by Mauro Forghieri.
Optical inspirations of racing cars
In the Daytona SP3, Ferrari specifically uses various design elements from the 330 P3. At the same time, inspirations from the 350 Can-Am and 512 S come into play. The front and rear fenders, for example, are strongly accentuated. In the upper area of the LED headlights there are movable elements that partially cover the lenses when switched off. The wide wrap-around windshield merges into relatively small side windows. Large air intakes sit behind the front fenders at the top of the shoulder line, directing the airflow through the doors to the radiators. The side sections are just as sculpturally shaped as the trunk lid. As on classic race cars, the exterior mirrors moved to the top of the fenders, their shape perfected by CFD simulation. A comb-like strut trim is found in the outer front air intakes and throughout the rear. A removable targa roof ensures that the Daytona SP3 can be used all year round.
840 hp naturally aspirated V12 engine
Unlike various other current models, Ferrari deliberately dispenses with active aerodynamic elements on the Daytona SP3. Nevertheless, excellent efficiency was achieved in the wind tunnel. As in the historical models, the engine is located centrally behind the passengers. It is a naturally aspirated V12 engine with 840 hp and 697 Nm of torque from 6.5 liters of displacement. This engine is based on that of the 812 Competizione and transmits its power to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Ferrari quotes a sprint to 62 mph in 2.85 seconds, and to 124 mph in 7.4 seconds. No information is yet available on the topspeed. As with the LaFerrari, the entire monocoque is made of carbon fiber and has fixed seats. Instead, the steering wheel and pedals can be individually adjusted to the driver’s size. While the racing cars had pure seat cushions, there are seat covers here that merge seamlessly into the center tunnel trim.
Interior with historical quotes
Inside, the historical citations continue. In addition to the minimalist and functionally designed dashboard, Ferrari uses an equally simplified center tunnel in the Daytona SP3. Switches and buttons are only present in a minimum number. Most of them are distributed on the steering wheel. Behind them sits a digital display. Centered in the lower part of the dashboard are two HMI touch controls that can be used to select climate control and audio functions. Ferrari hasn’t yet provided any information on the limitation number of the Daytona SP3 or the price. The first examples will probably not roll out onto the streets and to waiting VIP customers until around mid-2022.
Images: Ferrari
