In the world of high-performance cars, few names resonate with as much passion and prestige as Ferrari. And among its most evocative modern creations, the Ferrari Monza SP1 stands apart—not just for its blistering performance, but for its raw, uncompromising design that pays tribute to Ferrari’s racing heritage. Part of the ultra-exclusive Icona series, the SP1 is a car that merges history and innovation with an artistry that only Ferrari could master.
A Nod to the Golden Age
The Monza SP1 was unveiled in 2018 as part of Ferrari’s Icona program—a line that celebrates the brand’s classic models by reimagining them for the 21st century. The SP1 takes clear inspiration from the iconic Ferrari 750 Monza and 166 MM Barchetta from the 1950s, open-top racers that dominated the endurance and sports car races of the era.
But this is not a retro car in the conventional sense. The SP1 looks like a concept car that leapt off a sketchbook into reality. With its low-slung stance, single-seat cockpit, and minimalist lines, it strips away the non-essentials to focus on purity: of speed, of design, and of driving emotion.
Design: Minimalism Meets Aggression
Perhaps the most striking thing about the Monza SP1 is its single-seat layout. This is a true driver’s car in the most literal way—there’s only room for one. No distractions, no compromises. The asymmetric cockpit design, complete with a tonneau cover where a second seat might be in the SP2 variant, makes the SP1 feel like a road-legal race car.
The lack of a windshield and roof amplifies the drama. Ferrari mitigated this with a clever innovation called the “Virtual Wind Shield”, a small carbon-fiber scoop in front of the driver that redirects airflow over the cabin to reduce wind buffeting at high speeds.
Every surface of the SP1 is sculpted for performance and aesthetics. Its carbon-fiber bodywork keeps it light, while the long bonnet, ultra-short rear deck, and hidden lighting elements create an uninterrupted visual flow that harks back to vintage racers.
Performance: V12 Power Unleashed
Under the hood of the Monza SP1 lies the beating heart of Ferrari’s modern engineering: a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, the same unit found in the 812 Superfast—but with even more power. Producing 810 horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque, it rockets the SP1 from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.9 seconds, and to 200 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.
The V12 doesn’t just deliver performance—it sings. The SP1 provides one of the most visceral soundtracks in the automotive world, with the exhaust note howling unfiltered into the open air. There are no turbos to mute the experience. It’s raw, immediate, and emotional—just as a Ferrari V12 should be.
Driving Experience: Theater on Four Wheels
Driving the SP1 is unlike anything else. The open-top design and unshielded cockpit immerse you in every sensation. You feel the wind, hear the engine echoing off surrounding landscapes, and sense the road in a way that modern enclosed cars can’t replicate. Ferrari engineered the SP1 for joy, not for practicality. It’s not about lap times or 0-60 comparisons—though it’s brutally quick—it’s about connection.
The SP1 features Ferrari’s best suspension tech, rear-wheel steering, and traction control systems borrowed from the brand’s top-tier models. It’s manageable even at high speeds, but it demands attention. It’s a car that rewards skill and punishes laziness—just as a purebred Ferrari should.
Exclusivity and Collectibility
Ferrari limited production of the Monza SP1 (and its twin-seat counterpart, the SP2) to fewer than 500 units, all of which were offered only to Ferrari’s most loyal and elite clients. This makes the SP1 not just a car, but a collector’s dream. With its rarity, performance, and historical significance, it’s bound to appreciate in value and cultural importance.
Each example is customizable, from paint colors to interior materials, allowing owners to commission a truly unique vehicle. Some were finished in historic racing liveries, others in stealthy matte finishes—each a one-of-one masterpiece.
Conclusion: A Pure Expression of Ferrari
The Ferrari Monza SP1 is more than a car—it’s a statement. A celebration of driving, design, and history. It captures the essence of what Ferrari stands for: performance, beauty, emotion, and exclusivity. In a world increasingly filled with hybrid tech and self-driving features, the SP1 offers a purist’s alternative. No roof. No windshield. No compromises.