1 of 1: Ferrari KC23 is a one-off, track-focused supercar
The KC23 is built by Ferrari’s Special Projects division
Ferraris are rare enough as it is because of their pricing and availability. You can get a hold of some ‘entry-level’ models from resellers or owners looking to upgrade. But the automaker reserves the right to sell the really good stuff only to dedicated patrons who have exhibited loyalty by collecting Ferraris.
I do not know how loyal you have to be for Ferrari to put you on its preferred list of buyers, but this next model takes it to a whole new level.
The latest Prancing Horse has been unveiled, and it looks as much like a spaceship as it is a futuristic sportscar. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the Ferrari KC23. A post on their site says it is a “track-focused yet state-of-the-art supercar born from the penmanship of Ferrari’s Centro Stile (design center), led by Flavio Manzoni and one very imaginative, passionate, and exacting customer.”
Flavio Manzoni is an Italian architect and automobile designer. He has been with Ferrari since 2010 and has worked on several models, including the F12berlinetta, Pininfarina, the LaFerrari, and more. Before working with Ferrari, he was the creative director of the Volkswagen group from 2000 to 2009. As for the ‘customer,’ his or her identity will remain confidential for several reasons.
Now for the KC23.
As it is based on the 2020 488 GT3 Evo, the body is unmistakably Ferrari. What makes this model so unique is how it perfectly blends the future and past of the automaker, making it an instant classic, and also eliciting a WTF moment from first-timers. It has butterfly doors that open vertically, à la the LaFerrari, the lighting system takes after the 499P endurance racecar (that recently won Le Mans), and the rear light blade is inspired by the Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo single-seater concept. The one-of-a-kind body color comes from a specially-developed four-layer aluminum livery called Gold Mercury that changes hues in the sunlight.
The cabin is a mix of luxury and motorsport. It uses a steering yoke with dozens of buttons and rocker switches taken from endurance racing. Last but not least, it has custom-made Alcantara-trimmed bucket seats.
Under the hood is the 488 GT3 Evo 2020’s engine, a V8 twin-turbo that delivered 530 victories and 119 championship wins to Ferrari. Despite that, this vehicle is designed for “non-competitive track use.” Can you go cruising with it on the road? Probably, but it is best driven on the track.
Why? Because every aspect of its body is meant to deliver maximum speed. Like its motorized air intake vents and imposing (removable) rear wing. But don’t worry. These features tuck discreetly into the body to showcase a fluid and smooth body while parked. Only after the Start/Stop button is clicked that the enormous air intakes and active aero systems come alive.
The shy and anonymous owner has been generous enough to allow the internet to see this masterpiece, but if you want to see it in all its glory, the Ferrari KC23 will be at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK from 13-16 July and then at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello from 1 August to 2 October.
Time to apply for Schengen visas!
