Ferrari’s CZ26 Makes Amends for the SF90

The Ferrari SF90 Stradale should have been one of the great Ferraris. It was a series-production Ferrari, significantly more expensive than the company’s “standard” mid-engine V8 models but with the technology and power of its flagship limited-run hypercars. Collectors buy those hypercars as investments, though, and the SF90 couldn’t sate them because it was not a limited model. Meanwhile, the 296 GTB, which cost about $189,000 less at launch, was not only better-looking but nearly as fast and powerful.Ferrari SF90 Stradale. Courtesy of FerrariAll of this is to say that Ferrari discontinued the SF90, replaced it with the uglier 849 Testarossa, and then let an American client put all that old hardware to far better use in a custom one-off commission, the CZ26. Ferrari’s CZ26. Courtesy of FerrariThe name might sound like it belongs on a Corvette, but the hybrid supercar has completely new bodywork over the SF90’s unchanged powertrain — a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 and three electric motors, making 986 horsepower.Ferrari’s CZ26. Courtesy of FerrariThis does look a lot better, though, with far cleaner design language and, to my eye, the best face Ferrari has put on a recent model. The silver bodywork leans into exaggerated curves across the haunches and canopy, while the black side sills sweep upward ahead of the rear wheels, accentuating their size and giving the car a bit of vintage racer feel. Red accents beneath the vents tastefully contrast with the black wheel spokes, roof, and carbon-fiber details, and it’s wide, thin black face with slender horizontal lights gives it a touch of muscle-car menace.Ferrari’s CZ26. Courtesy of Ferrari It’s a bit reminiscent of the 1990s Aston Martin Vantage, in the best way. The rear is less compelling, but it’s a well-balanced combination of slender lights, a huge diffuser, and prominent circular exhaust tips that cut into the bodywork.Unfortunately Maranello’s designers seemingly gave up when they came to do the interior as it’s essentially the SF90’s cabin, finished in bespoke black technical fabric and glossy carbon fiber, with carbon bucket seats derived from the 296 Speciale. The Luce has been controversial, but its interior is incredible, so it’s a shame the CZ26 borrows no more from it. Then again, a client with a Special Projects invitation hardly needs me to recommend another Ferrari, and they definitely have a Luce on order.Ferrari’s CZ26. Courtesy of Ferrari

Ferrari’s CZ26 Makes Amends for the SF90

Ferrari’s CZ26 Makes Amends for the SF90

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