It’s been quite some time since Ferrari truly surprised us with a production car, yet here we have two models that genuinely unhinge the jaw. As introductions to Ferrari’s new “Icona” class of specialty vehicles, the Monza SP1 and SP2 are limited production supercars with more wow factor than just about every Prancing Horse-badged vehicle on sale.
Inspired by the 1948 166MM, 750 Monza, and 860 Monza, the SP1 and SP2 blend classic design cues with modern tech. As their names suggest, the SP1 offers accommodations for only the driver while the SP2 has space for a passenger. By far the most radical element of the new Monzas’ design is their windshield-less silhouette. Ferrari calls the look its “barchetta” style, which translates as “little boat” in Italian.
Instead of a physical glass surface, Ferrari designed a virtual windshield that gathers air through the hood, sends it into a tight chamber, and ejects the stream just ahead of the instrument cluster. In typical Ferrari fashion, the automaker suggests the virtual windshield is more effective the faster you drive. Driver and passenger won’t be completely exposed to the elements, however, as each Monza comes with a special, heritage-style race suit, shoes, gloves, goggles, and a Berluti-designed carbon fiber helmet. These items won’t be sold separately.
At the root of the stunning duo is Ferrari’s 812 Superfast, though the Monzas only borrow the 812’s aluminum chassis, engine, and length. Both SP1 and SP2 are 4.8-inches lower and an inch wider. SP1 models protect the driver with a Kevlar-woven carbon fiber cockpit. The same F1-derived construction materials are used for the car’s hood and body panels. Should you prefer company for your extravagant drives, the Monza SP2 adds a second seat to the vehicle’s floor, a small wind deflector, and a second roll bar.
- 1. Ferrari Monza SP2
- 2. Ferrari Monza SP2
- 3. Ferrari Monza SP2
- 4. Ferrari Monza SP2
Ferrari says the SP2 will weigh about 11 pounds less than the 812 Superfast and the SP1 will be 44 pounds lighter still. Powering the Monza supercars is the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 from the 812, but dialed up to 799 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque. As they sit, the SP1 and SP2 are the most powerful V12 Ferraris yet. 0 to 60 mph will take 2.9 seconds and the Monza twins will top out at 186 mph.
Only 499 examples will be built (though we’re unsure the split between SP1 and SP2) and all are already sold out. While technically street legal, Ferrari won’t homologate any for the U.S. market (boo!). Regardless of seat count, the Monza will sell for $1.75 million.
