The cars of Ferrari’s XX programme
Опубликованно 27.08.2020 02:15
Since 2005, Ferrari has offered a very select group of owners the chance to take part in exclusive track days all over the world, including iconic racing locations such as Spa-Francorchamps and the N?rburgring.
To buy into the XX programme, customers needed to be approached by Ferrari and 'invited' onto the scheme, which included purchasing track-only variants of Ferrari's most exclusive models. SInce the scheme's introduction, just three models have made the cut: the FXX, 599XX, and FXX-K.
READ MORE: Inside Ferrari's exclusive XX driver programme
Contrary to popular belief, the cars included in the XX programme were never forcibly kept at Ferrari’s Italian HQ, though the likelihood is that many owners chose to take advantage of the service, which includes bringing the cars out to events for the owners to drive. At each event, the drivers are supported by a full Ferrari pit crew and technicians.
Beyond the Ferrari-organised events, client test drivers (as Ferrari calls them) are able to arrange extra track time in their car with Maranello, and are encouraged to help the marque develop and test its next generation of road car technology.
2005: The XX Programme begins
The original FXX kicked off the XX programme. Based on the legendary Enzo supercar, just 30 FXX models were produced, with 29 sold to customers and the 30th presented to F1 legend Michael Schumacher – who also took part in the XX scheme.
As with later XX cars, the FXX was never homologated for road use, nor was it ever designed to be used in competitive racing. Such was its hardcore nature that the purchase price of each car included an advanced driving course at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track.
The FXX used a larger 6.2-litre version of the Enzo's naturally-aspirated V12 engine, with power raised from 650bhp to 788bhp. Its 19in wheels were fitted with custom-developed racing slick tyres and its gearbox upgraded with technology borrowed from the company's F1 division.
The initial XX programme was designed to run for just two years, but Ferrari decided to extend it in 2007. At the same time, it offered an “Evoluzione” package for the XX.
The package bought drivers another six track events over another two years – but also offered a series of upgrades for the FXX. Power from the 6.2-litre V12 engine was increased to 848bhp at 9500rpm, while revisions to the transmission cut shift times to just 60 milliseconds.
Extra settings were also added to allow drivers to turn the FXX’s traction control off completely, while the suspension and brakes were also modified. It was rumoured to cost upwards of €1 million, excluding local taxes.
Категория: Автотехнический раздел