Enzo Ferrari’s low-key invitation to the motoring press to attend the unveiling of a new model was dramatically contrasted by the event itself: the introduction of the all-new F40, described by Ferrari himself as “the best in the world.” Named to commemorate the company’s 40th anniversary, the sleek new car left no doubt that it was the most purely functional, no-frills road Ferrari in decades—perhaps ever. Indeed, the F40 represented a clear-eyed return to Ferrari’s roots while also setting the direction for its future, a creation steeped in both technology and tradition. It drew heavily on Ferrari’s contemporary Formula 1 expertise, the source of its full-race twin-turbocharged 2.9L/471 HP V-8 engine, composite-reinforced tube steel chassis, track-ready suspension and brakes, and the deliciously flowing envelope shaped in Pininfarina’s famous wind tunnel. Weighing in at a mere 2,425 pounds, the F40’s ferocious powerplant and associated 5-speed manual gearbox—available with or without synchros—made it the first production automobile capable of exceeding 200 MPH. The interior provided exactly the appointments needed to conduct the F40’s business at speed, and nothing more. Deep composite bucket seats held occupants firmly but comfortably in place, the driver facing a padded steering wheel, a hooded cluster of Veglia Borletti instruments, drilled aluminum pedals, and that timeless gated shifter. No luxury leather here, just bare carbon fiber, black flocking to cut glare, sliding plexiglass side windows and simple cord door pulls. It was sharply focused, and unmistakably Ferrari. Ordered new by Phil Bachman and a local friend (who later sold his interest to Phil) through Thoroughbred Motorcars in Nashville, Tennessee, this 1992 Ferrari F40, S/N 91211, is one of 1,315 produced worldwide, one of 213 built to U.S. specifications and one of 60 produced for the U.S. for the 1992 model year. Its Rosso Corsa Fer. 300/12 paint and Rosso Stoffa Vigogna interior are pristine, a reflection of its odometer reading of 865 miles. Equipped with Engine No. 28883, Gearbox No. 510 and Body No. 12, this F40’s condition extends to such details as the included Schedoni luggage and rare Goodyear Eagle GS-A tires that have long since been discontinued. Presented with books, manuals and tools and documentation that includes the window sticker and Ferrari Classiche Red Book, this 1992 F40 offers the thrill of driving the last Ferrari created on Enzo’s watch and a milestone contribution to the Maranello mystique.
