Description
The goal of the F50 was made very clear, to deliver a road car which created an experience as close to an F1 car as possible. The car was unveiled for the first time in March 1995 at the 63rd annual Geneva Motor Show, accompanied by some very notable people. Luca Di Montezemolo, Piero Ferrari, Sergio Pininfarina and Niki Lauda were all present to illustrate this cars monumental importance within Ferrari's history.
Despite having an obvious, more curvy and modernized design its very apparent that the F50 did have some similarities to its predecessor, such as the large rear wing configuration (for increased downforce of course). However, the F50 offered something which the F40 couldn't, a removable roof. Not only were enthusiasts graced with this luxury but they were given the option of having a soft-top and hard-top roof. Production was limited to just 349 cars and these were only allocated to some of Ferrari's best customers collections. Every single car came with a letter signed by Montezemolo to show its authenticity.
Unlike its 'F' car predecessors, the F50 was the first car to feature a naturally aspirated V12 Engine and five valves per cylinder. The wonderful engine was derived directly from the Formula 1 engine which Ferrari used in the 1990's, which produced an eye watering 520 horsepower. The car has a six-speed longitudal gearbox, completed with a limited-slip differential which was fitted behind the engine, between which was mounted the oil tank for a dry sump lubrication system. This layout was completely reminiscent to that of the Ferrari contemporary Formula One cars. The F50 was the first road car to feature an ultra lightweight chassis which was constructed of Aerospace grade carbon fibre. The vehicles brake system consisted of massive drilled and ventilated set of discs and four piston brake callipers supplied by Brembo, and these brakes were so impressive that Ferrari decided an ABS system was unnecessary. With a curb weight of 1400 kilograms combined with 520 horsepower, the F50 was a recipe for exceptional performance.
This car was delivered new on 17/ 03/ 1997 by Rosso Corsa in Italy to its first owner Emilio Gnutti who cherished the car until 2014 before being sold to its second owner. Gnutti had the car serviced by his own mechanics throughout his ownership. He was a financial magnate who had an amazing Ferrari collection and was in fact a very close friend of De Montezemolo. This example is the 274th car produced and is presented in its original specification of Rosso Corsa with Nero interior and Rosso seat inserts.
The F50 is described as one of the most iconic super-cars ever built. A V12 engine derived from an F1 car, a manual gearbox and a roadster configuration combined with a total production number of just 349. An exhilarating, rare modern classic which should be placed within any Ferrari collection. This is a cherished example which features superb even weave throughout and gives the impression of a car which has never been driven in the wet with no signs of corrosion.
Complete with the hard top, roll over hoops, flight case, original books including service book, tools, bulb kit, torch and wheel socket as well as Classiche Certification.
Included in the sale of the vehicle will be a major service and bag tank change.
