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Okay, so it’s another Ferrari

We know, we know… there are other cars in the world than Ferrari, but with the announcement of the Maranello, we couldn’t help ourselves
Issue: Dec, 2007
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 It is to the joy of all Ferrari enthusiasts – and maybe even some people without testicles – that the famous old Modena firm is redeveloping the FXX for 2008. The 2005 concept, which claimed to the be the most advanced GT car Ferrari has produced, has just been the recipient of a tasty upgrade – much of which was inspired by input from Michael Schumacher. Who may, it is rumoured, know something about driving Ferraris very fast.

So, NOX is unapologetic for mentioning Ferrari again. It’s better than trying to make gags about Japanese cars that look like fish. The visual difference from its predecessor is limited; basically, it’s a slightly better paint job and bigger rear wings. It may sound immaterial, but as you’ll never be able to buy one, let alone drive it on any road, the visuals are all you’ve got to go on.  
 
The new FXX prototype, like its predecessor, is designed exclusively for track driving. It’s a working model for Ferrari track excellence, a high-speed laboratory for everything that will come out of northern Italy for the next ten years. In fact, the FXX has been put through 16,500 kilometres – the equivalent of a road trip from the factory to Tokyo – of tests throughout 2006 and another 18,500 kilometres – home to Sydney – in 2007. 
 
Under the hood, there is a 6,262cc V12 engine, which can unleash a blistering 860bhp. Keeping it glued to the ground is reconfigured aerodynamics over the rear axle, while a redesigned diffuser and rear flaps have, Ferrari claim, increased efficiency through the air by 25 per cent. Which might just make you a little more comfortable with the 60-milisecond gear changes. 
 
If you want to see them in action, there are six track events next year – two in the US, two in Europe and two in Asia – and we’ll try to bring you details the moment we have them.