There is no doubt that Ferrari was one of the earliest proponents of heritage-based branding, considering such hugely successful anniversary models as the F40 and F50, not to mention modern interpretations of model names such as the Testarossa and Superamerica. But in more recent years, a proliferation of boutique history-focused companies has paved the way for a greater indulgence in retrospective aesthetics. With some customers quietly critical of the hyper-futuristic designs of LaFerrari and its contemporaries, Ferrari sought to create a subline of uber-exclusive limited-edition models that would evoke classic styling, albeit through a modernised design language. These new models would be classified as the “Icona” series, suggesting how iconic they were intended to be. They would be allocated strictly for preferred customers and noted collectors.

In September 2018 the first model of the Icona line was unveiled at the Maranello factory, in conjunction with the company’s Capital Market’s Day. Evoking the name and forms of the iconic 750 and 860 Monza models of the 1950s, the dazzling new Monza SP1 and SP2 were immediately notable for their lack of a roof or windscreen. The cars’ sinewy lines featured an impossibly long bonnet, with head fairings behind the occupants in the style of the great 1950s sports racers.

Virtually indistinguishable at a glance, the two cars are only differentiated by their seating arrangements, with the SP1 featuring a single offset seat and the SP2 offering dual occupancy like the great barchettas that were campaigned by the Scuderia Ferrari and preferred racing clients. Ferrari Centro Stile’s carbon-fibre composite coachwork, featuring scissor doors, was so beautifully sculpted that the SP1 was awarded the 2020 Compasso d’Oro, one of the world’s most prestigious industrial design awards.

Loosely based on the range-leading 812 Superfast, the Monza’s 2,720-millimetre wheelbase chassis was equipped with a revised version of the 6.5-litre Tipo F140 V-12 engine, which had been developed through stalwart models like the Enzo, 599 GTO, and LaFerrari. The new F140 GC engine optimised fluid dynamics with revised variable-geometry intake tracts, mimicking a naturally aspirated Formula 1 engine, resulted in the design’s most powerful output yet. With a robust compression ratio of 13.6:1, and a redline at 9,000 rpm, the F140 GC develops 799 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque, which for a time made it the most powerful engine Ferrari had ever built. Mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle, the V-12 is capable of launching the Monza SP2 from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed in excess of 300 km/h.

The Monza’s interior is fitted with single-piece carbon fibre seats trimmed in sumptuous leather, while a new technology called Virtual Windscreen diverts wind from the occupants’ faces. Without a windscreen or any surrounding pillars, the Monza offers a field of driver visibility that is simply unmatched by any other road car. The roofless configuration furthermore delivers the engine roar and exhaust note straight to the driver’s ears, providing an unhindered auditory symphony of finely tuned mechanical high performance.

Though precise production breakouts are not yet available, upon its introduction Ferrari announced that no more than 499 examples of the Monza would be built—across both SP1 and SP2 versions. Through their rarity and astonishing styling, the Monza iterations attain the status of instant collectables that put a new slant on Maranello’s long history of heritage branding.

Claiming extremely low mileage during a life of careful storage, this Monza SP2 is a particularly impressive example. Chassis number 272374 completed assembly in October 2021, finished in Grigio Titanio Metallizzato paint over an interior of Rosso Ferrari leather with Nero complements. The SP2 was ordered with Special Equipment consisting of a bespoke finish on the driver’s head fairing, which is painted in Rosso Corsa with the model logo and a Grigio Titanio Metallizzato stripe.

The Ferrari was further specified with a host of carbon fibre extras, including the wheelhouse arches, rear diffuser, front air vents, underdoor cover, front spoiler, and fuel filler lid. The interior is equipped with four-point safety harness in Giallo, large GT2 monocoque racing seats, stitched Giallo Cavallino Rampante logos on the headrests, a yellow-faced tachometer, complementary Giallo stitching, and a Rosso Ferrari trimmed steering wheel. Adjustable suspension, red brake callipers, Scuderia shields, and matte-finished Grigio Corsa 21-inch forged wheels round out the SP2’s impressive build specifications.

Sold new to an enthusiast based in Dubai, the Ferrari was registered in Kuwait and has remained carefully stored and minimally driven ever since. Currently displaying just 812 kilometres, this fabulous Monza SP2 is accompanied by a Ferrari-branded racing helmet made of leather and carbon fibre, battery charger, and owner’s manuals.

As one of fewer than 499 examples of the SP2 built, and offering a groundbreaking performance and design envelope, this jaw-dropping Monza would make a sensational addition to any modern performance-focused collection or gathering of important flagship Ferraris. It epitomises Maranello’s cutting-edge and highly exclusive design-focused Icona model line, beautifully reinterpreting the iconic racing barchettas of the 1950s.