This V-12 Ferrari F40 Will Leave You Breathless - A Racer’s Dream

The legendary Ferrari F40 is already a revered icon among car enthusiasts, known for its striking design and turbocharged V-8 engine. However, the upcoming auction of a one-of-a-kind version of this classic is destined to transform how we view this supercar. Enter the 1992 Simpson-Ferrari V-12 GTR, an extraordinary creation that takes everything we know about the F40 and amplifies it, literally, with a heart-stopping naturally-aspirated V-12 engine. This radical redesign not only adds four more cylinders but redefines performance in a way that is both captivating and exhilarating.

The Genesis of a Racing Legend

This unique automobile was commissioned by gentleman racer Stefano Sebastiani, who teamed up with the renowned British operation, Simpson Motorsport, to transform a crash-tested F40 chassis into a racing dream. As captured beautifully by Ferrari historian Keith Bluemel in his book, Ferrari F40: a comprehensive look at one of Ferrari’s greatest and most revered cars, what emerged was a vehicle unlike any other. The decision to swap the standard turbocharged V-8 for a naturally-aspirated type F133 V-12 Ferrari 550 Maranello engine was audacious, yet it paid dividends by offering an exhilarating driving experience.

Technical Marvels at Play

The intricate modifications didn’t stop with the engine. The team at Simpson Motorsport removed excess weight by incorporating F40 GTE-style bodywork, designed specifically for enhanced performance. A full FIA roll-cage promises not just safety, but also a kind of raw excitement as the car screams through tracks. The aggressive wheel setup - with 11-inch-width x 18-inch-diameter front wheels and 12.5-inch-width x 18-inch-diameter rear wheels - aligns perfectly with the car's performance goals. This bespoke project further evolved in 2005 when a Hewland NLT six-speed sequential transmission was added, pushing the vehicle’s capabilities even farther.

The Racing Heritage of the V-12 GTR

Taking the V-12 GTR to the track proved that this was no ordinary car; it was a contender. The 1990 World Sports Car Champion, Mauro Baldi, had the opportunity to drive this monster at the Six Hours of Vallelunga alongside Richard Jones and Fabio Montani. His review was glowing: “What a nice and quick car to drive! Much better than the turbo original car.” While they didn't complete the race that day, Baldi's words reflect the sentiment shared by many drivers who have encountered this ferocious creation.

A History of Excellence

Between 2002 and 2006, the V-12 GTR raced over a dozen times across the UK and Europe before being retired—a fitting pause for such a storied competitor. However, its story doesn’t end there. In 2023, Simpson Motorsport dusted it off, giving it a thorough check-up and running it at speed at Turweston Airfield in Buckinghamshire. And, in a groundbreaking twist, it now comes road-registered, allowing the next owner not just to admire, but also to experience this striking machine on public roads.

The Distinctive Interior

Inside the car, it's clear that this racer means business. The interior is even more bare-bones than that of a standard F40, featuring only one lightweight racing seat, although there is space to install a companion seat. This emphasis on minimalism highlights the car's focus on performance over comfort. Still, those riding inside will be treated to the incredible symphony of the V-12 engine—an auditory experience that sports car enthusiasts dream of.

Get Ready for the Auction!

This masterpiece will be up for grabs at the Iconic Auctioneers Silverstone sale from August 23-25, where it is estimated to fetch between £500,000 and £600,000 ($640,000 to $770,000). This price point is mind-bogglingly modest compared to more prominent Ferrari variants like the F40 LM, making the V-12 GTR an attractive proposition for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.

A Final Thought

As enthusiasts hold their breath for this auction, one thing is clear: The Simpson-Ferrari V-12 GTR is not just another car; it’s a piece of history that represents audacity, performance, and passion for the automobile like few others. For any collector or racing fan worth their salt, this is a hypercar that promises to be a thrilling addition to any collection.