There is not a single car enthusiast who does not know of the names Ferrari and Porsche, and the success of both of these prestigious marques has been forged in the fires of motorsports. In late 2018, Stuttgart and Maranello simultaneously released contemporary revivals of some of their most venerated race-cars for a very lucky few customers.
What’s on offer from Ferrari?
The Italian offering comes in the form of two limited-run cars, the Monza SP1 and SP2, which have already sold out. But if you have enough capital and were unlucky to miss out on this opportunity, Ferrari’s special projects division would likely be happy to create your own unique Prancing Horse just ask Eric Clapton about his £4.5 million custom SP-12 EC.
Based on the front-engined ‘barchetta’ racers of Ferrari’s history, the SP1 and SP2 both boast a truly monumental 810 horsepower from the same V12 engine found in other flagships of the company’s range such as the 812 Superfast and LaFerrari. It would be hard to argue that the sleek, simplistic and elegant flowing designs of these Monza models aren’t some of the most beautiful pieces of automotive art from the last few years.
Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2 Overview
The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are limited-edition speedsters that mark the beginning of Ferrari’s “Icona” series, paying homage to classic 1950s Ferrari racing cars like the 166 MM. With a lightweight carbon fibre body and a powerful V12 engine, both the SP1 (single-seater) and SP2 (two-seater) deliver exhilarating performance and stunning design, combining Ferrari’s heritage with cutting-edge engineering.
Design and Development
Inspired by Ferrari’s classic Barchetta models, the Monza SP1 and SP2 emphasize minimalist, open-top designs with no traditional windshield or roof. These models incorporate Ferrari’s innovative Virtual Wind Shield, which channels airflow above the driver’s head to improve aerodynamics and driver comfort at high speeds.
Both the SP1 and SP2 feature carbon fibre construction, making them ultra-light and incredibly agile on the road or track. Ferrari ensured that while the design evokes nostalgia, the technology is thoroughly modern, maintaining Ferrari’s high standards of performance.
Chassis and Drivetrain
At the heart of both models is the naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine, producing 810 horsepower, making the Monza SP1/SP2 some of the most powerful Ferraris ever built. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, enabling blistering acceleration and precise handling. The performance focus of these cars is matched with their light weight, providing agility and responsiveness.
Performance
The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are capable of 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a top speed exceeding 186 mph. The roaring V12 engine is a tribute to Ferrari’s motorsport pedigree, delivering an exhilarating driving experience, especially with the open cockpit design. Despite lacking a traditional windscreen, the Virtual Wind Shield ensures the driver remains comfortable even at high speeds.
Interior and Features
The interior of the Monza SP1/SP2 is driver-focused, minimalistic, and features premium materials, including Alcantara and carbon fibre. The single-seater SP1 focuses solely on the driver, while the SP2 allows for a passenger with an identical setup. Despite the minimalist design, both cars include advanced features such as Ferrari’s latest infotainment system, digital displays, and safety systems, blending heritage with modernity.
Variants and Special Models
The Ferrari Monza comes in two variants:
- SP1 – Single-seater for purists looking for a focused, solo driving experience.
- SP2 – Two-seater offering the same experience but with the option for a passenger.
Both models share the same engine, performance stats, and design ethos, with the seating arrangement being the primary difference.
Legacy and Market Impact
With only 499 units combined, the Monza SP1 and SP2 are among the most exclusive Ferraris ever made. Their limited availability and connection to Ferrari’s historic race cars have made them highly sought-after by collectors. These models represent the pinnacle of Ferrari’s ability to blend tradition with cutting-edge technology, standing as symbols of Ferrari’s commitment to its racing heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern design and performance.
The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are masterpieces of automotive design, combining stunning, minimalist aesthetics with raw, unfiltered performance. They deliver a unique, open-top driving experience that harks back to Ferrari’s racing history while incorporating state-of-the-art technology. As limited-edition models, they cater to Ferrari collectors and enthusiasts who value heritage, exclusivity, and high-performance engineering.
Specification | Details |
Engine | 6.5-litre V12 |
Power | 810 hp |
0-60 mph | 2.9 seconds |
Top Speed | 186+ mph |
Price | £1.6 million and up |
Overall Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Exquisite design and craftsmanship
- Extremely powerful V12 engine
- Exclusive, limited production
Cons:
- Extremely high price
- Lacks practicality for everyday use
- Open cockpit means exposure to the elements
The Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2 stands as an icon for those who want the purest expression of Ferrari’s motorsport heritage in a modern, breathtaking package.
What’s on offer from Porsche?
Crossing over into southern Germany, Porsche have recently released a homage to their Le Mans-winning sports-car, the 935/78 lovingly nicknamed ‘Moby Dick’ for its eye-catching elongated aerodynamics that have a noticeably whale-like appearance. The new homage bares the same ‘935’ moniker, and whereas the SP1 & SP2 are a blend of both modern and classic Ferrari design cues, the Porsche sticks very close to the original racer’s design indeed.
Based on the hardcore track-focused 911 variant, the GT2 RS, the Porsche packs a colossal 700-horsepower turbocharged flat-six being fired at the huge rear tyres and is likely to be equally as devastatingly fast (and possibly unhinged) as the original car.
Porsche 911 GT2 RS Overview
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s 911 lineup, offering extreme performance and track-focused engineering. Released in 2017, the GT2 RS is based on the 911 Turbo but takes power and performance to new heights. With its powerful twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, advanced aerodynamics, and lightweight construction, it is one of the fastest and most thrilling road-legal 911s ever produced.
Design and Development
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS was developed as the ultimate track-oriented 911. It features extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the body panels and roof, and a lightweight titanium exhaust system. The large rear wing and aggressive front splitter contribute to its striking appearance and optimize downforce for better track performance. The Weissach Package option further reduces weight, enhancing its already superb handling.
Chassis and Drivetrain
At the heart of the GT2 RS is a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, derived from the 911 Turbo S, but heavily modified for increased power. This engine produces a staggering 700 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful 911 ever at its release. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is optimized for faster gear shifts.
The chassis benefits from race-derived technologies, including Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), ensuring precise control, cornering stability, and extraordinary stopping power. The rear-wheel-drive setup, along with rear-axle steering, offers sharp, responsive handling and allows for incredible agility on both track and road.
Performance
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is one of the most powerful and fastest 911s ever built. It can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds and has a top speed of 211 mph. The car’s combination of lightweight materials, enormous power, and advanced aerodynamics allows it to deliver astonishing track performance, setting a Nürburgring lap time of 6 minutes 47.3 seconds, which was a production car record at the time of release.
Interior and Features
Inside, the GT2 RS maintains the minimalist, driver-focused ethos of a race car, while still offering high-end materials. The cabin is lined with Alcantara, carbon fibre, and leather, with supportive bucket seats designed to hold occupants firmly during hard cornering. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is included, offering infotainment and connectivity options, though the focus is entirely on the driving experience.
Variants and Special Models
The Weissach Package is the primary option for the GT2 RS, offering weight savings through additional carbon fibre components, magnesium wheels, and other lightweight materials. This package reduces the car’s weight by around 30 kg, enhancing performance on the track.
Legacy and Market Impact
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS has solidified its status as a legendary supercar, thanks to its record-breaking performance and incredible driving dynamics. As one of the most powerful and track-focused models in the 911 range, it is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its combination of power, agility, and rarity makes it a benchmark for modern supercars.
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the ultimate expression of Porsche’s engineering prowess, delivering staggering performance, track-ready handling, and aggressive design. With its 700 horsepower engine, lightweight construction, and record-setting capabilities, it stands as one of the most impressive road-legal cars ever built, appealing to serious drivers and collectors who demand the very best in performance.
Specification | Details |
Engine | 3.8-litre twin-turbo flat-six |
Power | 700 hp |
0-60 mph | 2.7 seconds |
Top Speed | 211 mph |
Nürburgring Lap Time | 6:47.3 |
Price | £207,000+ (when new) |
Overall Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Extreme power and speed
- Track-focused performance and handling
- Advanced aerodynamics and lightweight materials
Cons:
- High price tag
- Harsh ride for everyday driving
- Rear-wheel drive may be intimidating for some drivers
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is an engineering masterpiece, built for those who crave adrenaline-fueled track days and extreme road performance.
Comparison: Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2 vs. Porsche 911 GT2 RS
Feature | Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2 | Porsche 911 GT2 RS |
Engine | 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 | 3.8-litre twin-turbo flat-six |
Power | 810 hp | 700 hp |
0-60 mph | 2.9 seconds | 2.7 seconds |
Top Speed | 186+ mph | 211 mph |
Weight | 1,500 kg (approx.) | 1,470 kg (Weissach Package) |
Design | Open-top speedster (SP1: single-seater, SP2: two-seater) | Closed-cockpit, track-oriented coupe |
Price | £1.6 million+ | £207,000+ (when new) |
Driving Experience
- Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2: Open-top, focused on heritage and pure driving sensation, lacks windshield but offers the unique Virtual Wind Shield. It prioritizes exclusivity and raw, emotional engagement.
- Porsche 911 GT2 RS: Offers extreme, track-focused performance with superior aerodynamics and precision handling. The GT2 RS is more suited for circuit driving and high-speed road use, boasting a record Nürburgring lap time.
Pros and Cons
- Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2
- Pros: Extreme exclusivity, classic design, unmatched V12 sound.
- Cons: Very high price, impractical for everyday driving, exposure to the elements.
- Porsche 911 GT2 RS
- Pros: Track-focused, faster acceleration, precision handling, more affordable.
- Cons: Rough ride for daily use, rear-wheel drive can be intimidating for non-professional drivers.
The Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2 focuses on exclusivity, heritage, and a visceral driving experience, whereas the Porsche 911 GT2 RS is designed for maximum performance and track capabilities. The Porsche is more accessible for track enthusiasts, while the Ferrari appeals to collectors and those seeking an emotional, unique driving experience.
Are these cars road legal?
The two Ferraris are both road-legal and given that they cost in the region of £3 million per car, an ‘SP1’ or ‘SP2’ personal licence plate will probably be affordable for the lucky souls taking delivery of one of these vehicles. Of course, if you want a personalised number plate in the UK, you don’t need to own a Ferrari or Porsche. You can find the right one for you and your car through The Private Plate Company.
Unfortunately for the lucky 70 Porsche owners, the 935 revival is a weapon that can only be safely unleashed on the race-track and there’s no place to fit a custom number plate. If only there was some way to cheer yourself up with a seven hundred horsepower Porsche.