Recent visitors to Ferrari's Fiorano test track have been quick to spot an unusual prototype in-between the usual hive of high-speed activity. With rumours of a Super Enzo having been in circulation for many months, and continuous disagreement amongst enthusiasts regarding the confusion of the Enzo and F60 name, these encounters have certainly sparked great excitement.
Although no official comment has yet been released by Ferrari regarding the project, certain details have come to light. As can be derived from the photographs, all modifications are focused on performance enhancement. A new exhaust system is featured, replacing the original quad outlet system with large single pipes per cylinder bank. The three-way catalytic converter has been eliminated altogether, allowing spitting flames on the test car.
At the front, engineers have added a recessed NACA duct to draw in increased volumes of cool air efficiently, a similar modification as to that made to the Ferrari F40 LM, by Michelotto. A subtle aerodynamic modification has also been made under the raised central nose, with the area now featuring a blanking plate with dual flow ducts. In order for the extra power to be fully exploited, a large rear spoiler has also been added to increase downforce and stability at speed.
In similar fashion to the Ferrari F50 GT, and F40 LM, this prototype has clearly been engineered with raw track use in mind. A reliable source has stated that this particular car belongs to an individual operating a race team in Europe, who intends to use the car in a racing programme. Padua based Michelotto are the favoured company for carrying out such conversions for Ferrari, although they claim not to be involved in this project, declaring that they have only ever seen the car in Italian car magazines.
NEW PRODUCTION RUN
Although this particular car appears to be a one-off, it has been made known that Ferrari are going to resume a very short production run of cars for select clients who did not have the opportunity to acquire an Enzo in the first run. A selection of twenty clients has already been contacted by Ferrari and received a 'preview', whilst a batch of 25 new chassis will be built in total. We're not so sure how chuffed the buyers of the first run will be...
There is widespread talk that the cars will be sold for a price of $1.5 million, covering several upgrades specifically designed for track day use. The standard Enzo based engine will remain normally aspirated, but will feature heavily modified internals resulting in a power output of 850bhp. To cope with the extra power, a new gearbox and brake system will also be part of the package.
Paddy Granger - ItaliaSpeed - 7 Jun 2005