by Unique Ferrari F40 from the creators of the legendary racing version
The Ferrari F40 is an automotive legend, and this example, whose value could exceed $4 million, is more special than most others. Built by the same firm responsible for creating the iconic F40 LM, this road car is one of the most powerful ever made.
Order history and provenance
The car was ordered new by Jean Sage, former sporting director of the Renault Formula 1 team. He oversaw the Ferrari F40 IMSA program in the United States for two years and ordered his own F40 in 1989.
Watch: Hamilton did donuts on a Ferrari F40 in Tokyo with Kardashian in the passenger seat
Upgrade by Michelotto
In 1994, Sage sent his car to Michelotto, an Italian brand that developed the F40 LM for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. As part of the upgrade, the 2.9-liter V8 engine received new turbochargers and a lightweight exhaust system, achieving 527 hp at 7000 rpm, which is 49 hp more than the standard version, and torque of 849 Nm, which is 271 Nm more.
Weight reduction and racing elements
Additionally, Michelotto removed the heavy air conditioning system, installed lighter front and rear body panels, and carbon fiber seats similar to those used in the F40 LM. The car also received new 17-inch OZ Racing wheels, adjustable Koni shock absorbers, and a special front splitter. Overall, Sage’s F40 weighs 136 kg less than a typical F40, while remaining road-legal.
Racing career and later fate
The car was not only used on the road but also participated in several races, including the BPR Global Endurance GT championship. Sage owned the car until 1996, when it was sold to a private individual in the UK. The upgraded turbines were removed but later reinstalled, and the car retains all its original parts.
Auction and expected value
Auction house RM Sotheby’s is handling the sale of the car at its Woodcote Park auction in the UK next month. It is noted that the car has a mileage of 22,699 km, and it is expected to sell for between $3.65 million and $4.35 million.
This car is not just a rare example; it is a true testament to engineering brilliance and Ferrari’s racing heritage. Its history, starting from the order by a famous motorsport personality and ending with the upgrade by the company that created a racing legend, makes it extremely valuable to collectors. The fact that the car remains road-legal yet has a racing past and significant technical improvements only underscores its uniqueness. Given the growing interest in classic supercars from the 80s and 90s, this F40 will undoubtedly become one of the auction’s top lots.
