by A Miniature Ferrari F40 Replica with a Real Engine
This compact replica of the famous Ferrari F40 supercar has several advantages over the original. It is not only significantly cheaper (real F40s cost over $3 million) but is also a convertible. The F-Racer Junior model was released in 1992, and only 10 examples exist in this configuration.
The black color the car is painted in is rarely seen on original F40s. The dimensions allow for two children or one adult who wants to feel like a child behind the wheel of a miniature racing car.
Technical Features
The 270 cm³ engine accelerates the car to 56 km/h, which is certainly insufficient for public roads but quite suitable for driving on sidewalks or go-kart tracks. Some details, such as the rear spoiler and transparent hood, reproduce the original quite accurately, but certain elements look strange, for example, the trunk lid or the small exhaust pipes.
RM Sotheby’s expects this specimen to sell for $30,000–50,000.
The interior is maximally simplified: a flat steering wheel, a simple floor mat, instruments with carbon trim, and two functional dials. However, the car has hydraulic disc brakes, independent suspension, and a differential.
Although the price is much lower than that of a real Ferrari F40, it is still quite high—for this money, you could buy a new Ford Mustang or BMW 3-Series. But for those who dream of an F40 but cannot afford one, this mini version could be an interesting alternative.
It is interesting that such a toy model with a real engine could become not only a collector’s item but also an unusual way to draw attention to automotive history. At the same time, its cost raises the question of what exactly makes a car valuable—its size, brand, or the ability to experience emotions behind the wheel.
