The Ferrari 499P Modificata is a new offering from Ferrari, launched as part of an ultra-exclusive program. This machine is a more powerful variant of the 499P Hypercar, which won at Le Mans. In 2023, Ferrari made an impressive return to motorsport, securing a victory at the Nürburgring 24 Hours and an outright win at Le Mans for the first time in over half a century. To celebrate this feat and allow their most loyal customers to experience the machine for themselves, Ferrari introduced the 499P Modificata.
The car is available for purchase for €5.1 million (approximately £4.4 million). Buyers will have the opportunity to test the car at selected events as part of the new Sport Prototipi Clienti program, although competing in races is not in the plans.
The 499P Modificata is different from other Ferrari models, as while the Challenge and XX series are based on road cars, this new model has its roots firmly planted in motorsport, being a current Le Mans racer. The car was first unveiled at the Mugello Circuit during the 2023 Ferrari Finali Mondiali. It retains many of the features of the Le Mans car, such as the carbon fiber monocoque, push-rod suspension, and powertrain. However, without the restrictions of the FIA, the 499P Modificata has received updates to its powertrain, suspension, and cockpit to make it even more usable and enjoyable.
Under its carbon fiber skin, the car features the same 3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine derived from the 296, which is aided by a front-mounted electric motor. While the race car is limited to a total power output of 671bhp due to regulations, the Modificata boasts an additional 175bhp, reaching a peak of 846bhp. A notable addition is the “Push to Pass” feature, which provides a power boost of 159bhp by pressing a button on the steering wheel. This system, derived from F1 technology, can provide multiple boosts per lap, lasting up to 7 seconds each.
To further improve performance, Ferrari has eliminated the minimum speed at which the front axle motor is activated. Compared to the race car, the Modificata takes a different approach, with full-time four-wheel drive. This not only makes it faster in launches and low-traction conditions, but also allows for greater adjustability in low-speed corners.
Ferrari has also partnered with Pirelli to develop custom tires for the Modificata, which offer more accessible and predictable performance. Additionally, the car has undergone adjustments to its suspension and engine mapping to better suit non-competitive use.
The Sport Prototipi Clienti program will be launched in 2024 with the 499P Modificata. As part of this program, Ferrari will take care of the logistics of transporting each track car from circuit to circuit, with two years of trackside assistance, maintenance, and activities included in the purchase price.
Ferrari 499P Modificata specifications:
- Engine: 3-liter twin-turbo V6 & front-mounted electric motor
- Power: 846bhp (with Push to Pass)
- Torque: Not specified
- Chassis: Carbon fiber monocoque
- 0-62mph: Not specified
- Top speed: Not specified
- Price: €5.1 million (approximately £4.4 million), including two years of track activities.