Ferrari has completed the development testing of a new tire specifically designed for the Enzo Ferrari supercar.
On the 8th, the testing of the specially manufactured Pirelli P Zero Corsa System tire for the Enzo Ferrari was officially concluded at the Fiorano track. The new tire has the same dimensions and aspect ratio as the original tires but uses cutting-edge materials, compounds, and technologies to provide equal levels of grip, performance, and safety as the latest tires. The specifications for the P Zero Corsa System tires remain at 245/35 R19 (front) and 345/35 R19 (rear), featuring a bi-directional, asymmetric tread pattern designed to offer excellent grip even on wet roads.
Pirelli has officially approved the use of the P Zero Corsa System tires from the Collezione line that have long been offered for the F40 and F50 in the aftermarket. When launched in 1987, the F40 was the first high-performance car to sport Pirelli’s P Zero Asimmetrico tires. Now, Pirelli has introduced a revised version that aligns with the specifications of the original F40 tires, set at 245/40 R17 (front) and 335/35 R17 (rear).
The tire for the 1995 Ferrari F50 in the Collezione line is designed to match the specifications of 245/35 R18 (front) and 335/30 R18 (rear), carefully developed during testing at Fiorano to ensure that its handling characteristics and feel are identical to those of the original tires.
Additionally, a tire for the 1984 GTO is currently under development. This new tire is set to be fitted on the vehicles participating in the Legacy Tour running from October 1 to 4, which travels from the Dolomites in Italy to Maranello. The Pirelli tires previously provided for the GTO were the P7 Cinturato, originally developed for the 1974 World Rally Championship and launched for production vehicles in 1976. The P7 was the first modern tire featuring a low aspect ratio for improved handling. The newly developed tire will emphasize a time-honored style while combining modern materials and structural technologies with existing specifications (front 225/50 R16, rear 265/50 R16).
By officially approving replacement tires for these legendary four supercars, Ferrari has once again demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that owners of historically significant Ferrari models can safely enjoy their vehicles with peace of mind.
Ferrari GTO
The Ferrari GTO was unveiled at the 1984 Geneva International Motor Show. Thanks to its V8 turbo engine power, Pininfarina lines, and advanced composite body, it received immense public acclaim upon its release. The GTO was the first Ferrari to feature a V8 engine with twin turbochargers mounted in a longitudinal configuration. With a displacement of 2.8 liters and eight cylinders, it earned the unofficial nickname 288, but its official name was derived from the legendary 250 GTO of the early 1960s. Initially, Ferrari aimed to manufacture only 200 units to obtain homologation for Group B racing. However, rules changed significantly, leading Ferrari to withdraw from the championship. Nevertheless, the GTO became Ferrari’s first supercar, paving the way for successors like the F40, F50, Enzo Ferrari, and LaFerrari. Ultimately, it became a remarkable success with a total of 272 units produced before production ceased.
Ferrari F40
The Ferrari F40 was launched in July 1987 to commemorate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary. This model succeeded the GTO as the icon of Ferrari supercars, combining exclusivity with uncompromising performance and high quality. The engine, mounted longitudinally like the GTO, boasts a displacement of 2.9 liters, a higher compression ratio, and increased boost pressure that raises output to 478 horsepower. The F40 features a robust design, a substantial fixed rear wing, composite materials used to reduce weight, and an asynchronous front gear sports transmission option, contributing to its identity as a true track vehicle. A total of 1,311 units were produced, supplemented by race-specific versions known as the F40 LM and F40 GT-E. The F40, the last Ferrari personally approved by founder Enzo Ferrari, achieved timeless success.
Ferrari F50
Unveiled at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show to celebrate Ferrari’s 50th anniversary, the F50 embodies the most extreme spirit of Ferrari in the 1990s. It was the first supercar to feature a naturally aspirated V12 engine in a mid-engine position taken directly from Formula 1 racing. The powertrain incorporates five valves per cylinder and load-bearing capabilities, housed in a composite-built monocoque chassis, complemented by extensive aerodynamic solutions and horizontally mounted shock absorbers. The detachable canopy offers a driving experience reminiscent of a racing car, characterized by the absence of ABS and power-assisted steering. A total of 349 units were produced, which was “one less than the forecasted market demand.”
Enzo Ferrari
The Enzo Ferrari, produced from 2002 to 2004, is Ferrari’s fourth supercar. It continues and enhances the concept of technology exchange with Formula 1 introduced with the F50. A major wind tunnel test was conducted in pursuit of maximum performance, aiming for uncompromising automobile development. The front-end design draws strong inspiration from the single-seater front end used in F1. The large wing characteristic of the F40 and F50 was replaced with aerodynamic components that ensure downforce, thanks to the ground effect generated from the vehicle’s floor and sides. The floor and sides of the vehicle were sculpted to serve the engine cooling function as well. The naturally aspirated 12-cylinder engine in the Enzo Ferrari produces 660 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and delivers torque even at low RPMs, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness. The gearbox is available only in the F1 version with controls mounted on the steering wheel, optimizing shift times for maximum sportiness. The braking system introduced carbon-ceramic discs for the first time in top-level racing series.
Written by Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr