When a Formula 1 driver leaves Ferrari, they don’t leave empty-handed. Especially when their name is Carlos Sainz Jr. The Spanish driver, now heading to Williams in 2025, has just received an incredible gift: a Ferrari Daytona SP3.
This car is a one-of-a-kind piece estimated at $4 million. And it’s not just any Ferrari—it’s a true masterpiece from the brand’s “Icona series”, an ultra-exclusive range from the Prancing Horse.
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A tailor-made style for an exceptional driver
This Daytona SP3 is much more than a supercar. Its matte gray exterior, accented with red touches, perfectly reflects the elegance and power expected from a Ferrari. The “Tailor Made” customization goes even further: a red stripe runs across the hood and sides, and details like the number 55—Sainz’s signature—are subtly added to the side skirts. Inside, it’s a festival of carbon fiber and Alcantara, with red seats elegantly contrasting against the black dashboard. Another unique nod to the driver can be found on the air intakes and center console: the phrase “Smooth Operator,” Sainz’s well-known nickname among Formula 1 fans. Through its “Tailor Made” program, Ferrari has clearly poured its expertise into turning this car into a one-of-a-kind piece that embodies Sainz.
A race car adapted for the road
Under the hood, this Daytona SP3 hides a beast: a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12, directly derived from the Ferrari 812 Competizione. With 850 horsepower and a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, it can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.85 seconds. Its top speed reaches 211 mph, placing it among the fastest Ferraris ever made. This raw power isn’t just about numbers; it represents Ferrari’s DNA. After spending several years driving red machines on the track, Carlos Sainz can now take a bit of that sensation with him on the road. And even though his future now lies with Williams, this Daytona SP3 is a touching nod to his years under the Prancing Horse banner.
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Ferrari treats its Formula 1 drivers well
Earlier this year, fellow driver Charles Leclerc also received his own Daytona SP3. He opted for a matte white finish. Leclerc has received several exclusive Ferraris recently, including an SF90 XX Stradale with over 1,000 horsepower, an 812 Competizione Aperta, and the brand’s SUV, the Purosangue. As for Carlos Sainz, he had previously been gifted a V12-powered coupe: the 812 Competizione. It features the same matte gray paint as the SP3, along with red details like the number 55 embroidered on the floor mats. Fun fact: before this 812, Carlos Sainz admitted he had never owned any car other than a Volkswagen Golf!
This article explores the $4 million farewell gift Ferrari gave to Carlos Sainz: a Daytona SP3 with a unique style and breathtaking performance. From tailor-made customization to an outstanding engine, this supercar embodies the special bond between the Spanish driver and the legendary Italian team. A truly elegant gift for the talented “Smooth Operator.”
Image : LIKE A G on YouTube
