About the Ferrari F50
During the Geneva, Switzerland Motor Show in March 1995, Ferrari showed their new F50. Packed with Ferrari's latest automotive technology, gleaned from their recent Formula-One racing expertises, the F50 was designed to be a "street-legal racing maching" in the truest sense of the word. This Ferrari's highly rigid center monocoque section was fabricated from hi-tech carbon fiber composites. The engine/gearbox unit is firmly bolted to this monocoque and works as a load-carrying element, just as on their F-1 racing machines. The normally aspirated 4.7 liter V-12 cylinder engine uses five valves per cylinder and yields an amazing 520 horsepower at 8,500rpm. The 6-speed synchromesh gearbox transmits this tremendous power smoothly and efficiently to the rear wheels. The F50's double wishbone suspension system is connected to the electronically controlled shock absorbers via pushrods, to provide optimum road holding performance. The Pininfarina designed body shell was purposely sculptured for excellent aerodynamics, yet retains Ferrari's traditional automotive grace. The chassis underside is completely flat, with upsweep at the rear end that acts as a diffuser. By using a removable roof, made from composite material, the car can be converted into a "Barchetta" (open-top) or "Berlinetta" (coupe). Ferrari's top models have all been destined to become true automotive legends and the F50 will be no exception.