Tailored for non-competitive use, this track-focused car inherits its legacy from Le Mans winner 499P.
Ferrari has just unveiled their latest track-focused masterpiece: the 499P Modificata. This car is a modification—hence the name—of the 499P that recently dominated the Centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Exclusively designed for non-competitive use, it’s aimed at the elite crowd of gentlemen drivers. Breaking away from traditional production models, the 499P Modificata is a direct derivative of an already legendary racing car, not having to adhere to any FIA WEC sporting and technical parameters. This freedom has led Ferrari’s engineering team to incorporate game-changing modifications aimed at enhancing the driver’s experience while making this behemoth’s capabilities more accessible.
When we talk about performance, the 499P Modificata takes things up a notch with some major upgrades over its endurance racing sibling. The new electric axle and active four-wheel drive, even at low speeds, transform the driving dynamics, adding an extra layer of control and performance. The “Push to Pass” function boosts the power output by an extra 120 kW for short periods, making those straights feel more exhilarating than ever. And let’s not forget the tailor-made Pirelli tires and recalibrated suspension setup that ensure this car remains a thrill to drive.
The interior keeps the single-seater layout of the original 499P, promising the same high-octane driving experience as enjoyed by the pros. You get the exact feel of the cockpits of racing cars #50 and #51, which clinched the Le Mans title, Hyperpole, and the fastest lap. This makes the 499P Modificata the highest-performing closed-wheel car Ferrari has offered for non-competitive use on the track.
Under the hood, the 499P Modificata is no slouch either. Its hybrid powertrain features a mid-rear-mounted V6 internal combustion engine combined with an electric motor on the front axle, delivering a jaw-dropping maximum power of 640 kW (858 horsepower). The Energy Recovery System (ERS) helps keep the 800-volt battery pack juiced up, thanks to technology derived from Ferrari’s Formula 1 experience. All this power is beautifully managed by a seven-speed sequential gearbox.
In terms of architecture and design, this car is a work of art. It sports an all-carbon-fibre monocoque chassis and state-of-the-art solutions like push-rod suspension and a brake-by-wire system. The aesthetic design, conceived in collaboration with the Ferrari Styling Centre, embodies the brand’s DNA through sinuous forms and aerodynamic features.
But the 499P Modificata isn’t just about today; it’s also about the future. Ferrari is launching a new Sport Prototipi Clienti programme in 2024, specifically for 499P Modificata owners. This will offer track events on international circuits with Ferrari taking care of logistics and maintenance, allowing you to focus on what you do best—driving. The 499P Modificata is a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to pushing the envelope in automotive excellence. It combines peak performance, luxury, and exclusivity in a package that’s as thrilling to drive as it is to behold. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate track day experience, your search might just have ended.
Image Source: Ferrari
