The Ultimate Ferrari F40 Transformation: Inside the F140 V12 Upgrade Process
The Ferrari F40 remains an icon in the world of supercars, and the prospect of revamping it with one of Ferrari’s most revered V12 engines has enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. Mike Burroughs, founder of StanceWorks, is embarking on an exhilarating journey to rebuild an F40 from the ground up, utilizing the breathtaking F140 V12 engine that made headlines with its unmatched performance and innovation. This article delves deep into the details of this ambitious project, showcasing not only the technical aspects of the build but also the passion and commitment behind it.
Burroughs requires an extraordinary set of circumstances to construct this ultimate version of the F40. It all started with the painstaking process of sourcing the original body panels needed to create the car's iconic shell. Months of effort culminated in securing everything required to breathe life into this remarkable automobile. In his latest video, Burroughs unveiled the key to this modern F40: the breathtaking F140 V12 engine.
The F140 V12: A Racing Legacy
The F140 engine family has a rich history, initially developed for the legendary Ferrari Enzo, and has since evolved into a symbol of natural aspiration excellence. StanceWorks traveled all the way to Munich to procure a F140 engine, specifically the “GA” variant found in the new Ferrari 812 Superfast. With six liters of displacement, this potent engine produces an astounding 800 horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque, showcasing Ferrari's engineering marvels.
As one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines in production car history, the F140-GA boasts an impressive redline of 8,500 rpm, allowing it to deliver exhilarating acceleration and unrivaled performance. During its debut, the engine was a game-changer, priced at around $94,000 when new and praised for its breathtaking capabilities. Burroughs acquired a unit from a crashed 812 after only 609 miles, presenting a golden opportunity to reintroduce this masterpiece within the F40.
Transforming Powertrain Dynamics
As Burroughs delves into the exciting project, plans for the F140 engine’s modifications take shape. While the need for turbocharging remains a consideration for the future, the initial focus will be on refining the naturally aspirated core. The cumbersome high-pressure fuel system originally intended for the F140 will be replaced with a traditional port injection setup, simplifying the tuning process and enabling enthusiasts to customize the engine’s performance.
Further enhancements include integrating independent throttle bodies, custom 6-in-1 headers, and conversion for E85 fuel usage. Effectively, this results in an expected doubling of the original F40’s 470 horsepower from the F120A V8, all while shedding weight—a pivotal component for performance cars. Burroughs highlights the F140’s weight of just 447 pounds, significantly less than the original turbocharged V8.
A Vision for the Future
In the grand scheme of things, this build represents more than just an engine swap; it encapsulates a vision. Burroughs aims to create an “F40 Evo” that pushes the boundaries of what the classic F40 can achieve, both in terms of performance and iconic status. As the project unfolds, he acknowledges that the road ahead is long, but it’s the challenge and learning opportunities that elevate this endeavor to something exceptional.
For those passionate about automotive innovation, this journey offers a front-row seat to the intricacies of building a supercar tailored to modern sensibilities while respecting the legacy of the original design. As Burroughs embraces the work ahead, he’s also acquired a second F140 engine in less-than-stellar condition for prototyping purposes. Fans eagerly await updates on the stunning F40 while daydreaming about the symphony this V12 will produce during the testing phases.
The Community’s Role
The automotive community plays a substantial part in this journey as well. Burroughs routinely engages with fans and enthusiasts, welcoming their insights and support. This sense of shared enthusiasm reflects a broader appreciation for classic supercars and the excitement of modifying them for modern performance.
As the F40 project comes together, it captures the imagination of the car-loving public, inspiring budding builders and dreamers alike to pursue their automotive ambitions, no matter how ambitious the vision may be.