As a limited-edition, track-only weapon for gentlemen racers, Ferrari has launched a customised version of the race-winning 499 four months after the Italian automaker earned a historic triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is even more performant than the Le Mans winner and goes by the name 499P Modificata.
The same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine from the racing vehicle powers the 499P Modificata, but it also features an electric motor attached to the front axle. The 499P Modificata, which is available for private purchase, differs significantly from the Le Mans car in that it uses its electrical assistance from a standstill, whilst the racing car can only utilise its electric power up to 118 mph (190kmph).
Ferrari has also included a "Push to Pass" technology, which is unrestricted and provides an additional 161 horsepower with a single button push. The 499P Modificata produces 858 horsepower in total. The unique Pirelli rubber, which has a structure and tread compound inspired by Formula 1 technology, measures 310/70-18 up front and 340/70-18 out back and is standard on all Ferraris built for the racetrack. For the automobile, a specially designed rain tire has also been created.
Visually speaking, not much separates the 499P Modificata from the endurance vehicle. Ferrari has used lightweight carbon fibre to construct every part of the body, and although the company hasn't disclosed the downforce amount, it will undoubtedly be substantial. Furthermore, there is no appreciable distinction between the 499P's cabin and the vehicle on which it is based. Ferrari claims that it would provide its customers "exactly the same driving experience as the crews who drove the racing cars #50 and #51 that took the win" at the June Le Mans racetrack.
Through Ferrari's Sport Prototipi Clienti program, owners will be able to race their 499P Modificatas at many foreign circuits each year. The automaker itself will take care of all maintenance, trackside support, and logistics.
It's not a cheap automobile. To be exact, the starting price before taxes is €5.1 million ($5.39 million), but it also includes two years of automobile ownership under the Sport Prototipi Clienti program.
