2 Ferraris crashed in one month: with only 478 hp, why is the F40 so dangerous?

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This is already the second Ferrari F40 crash in 2025, following the one involving F1 driver Lando Norris’s model.

The Ferrari F40, an iconic supercar of the 1980s, is renowned for its extreme performance and total lack of driver aids. But this explosive combination can quickly turn into a nightmare. A recent crash in the UK serves as a stark reminder that this icon is not meant for careless drivers or unpredictable weather conditions.

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Why is the Ferrari F40 so hard to drive?

The F40 is more than just a Ferrari; it’s a piece of history. Launched in 1987 to celebrate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary, it was the last car overseen by Enzo Ferrari himself. Its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8 engine produces 478 horsepower—a staggering figure for its time. With its lightweight body made of composite materials, the F40 was built for pure performance, sacrificing comfort entirely. Inside, everything is minimalist: rigid bucket seats, no sound insulation, and even fixed windows on early models. The F40 forgives no mistakes, especially since it lacks electronic aids like traction control or ABS. For its era, it was a beast, and even today, it remains formidable for unprepared drivers. Its challenging handling lies in the turbo’s power delivery, which only kicks in at higher RPMs. Drivers often press the accelerator too early, unaware of the massive boost that will arrive seconds later. The rear wheels lose grip, and that’s how you lose control of an F40.

A spectacular crash

This Ferrari F40, unfortunately, succumbed to the harsh realities of its design. Captured on video by a passing motorist, the car veered off a road near Markyate, north of London, crashing into a lamppost and flipping onto its side. Photos and videos reveal extensive damage: shattered body panels, a severely damaged front wheel, and likely structural impacts to the semi-monocoque frame. Initial reports suggest the car may have been on a test drive following maintenance, as evidenced by the protective covers on the seats. The driver, injured but not in critical condition, was taken to the hospital. Although the road appeared dry, cold temperatures and the turbocharged engine’s twitchiness likely played a key role in the accident.

The F40 crashing into a lamppost and flipping onto its side
The F40 crashing into a lamppost and flipping onto its side.

Repairable, but at what cost?

With only 1,315 units ever produced, every F40 is a rare and valuable piece. Well-preserved models easily fetch $2.5 million at auctions, but restoring a car like this can quickly become astronomically expensive. In this case, photos indicate that nearly all the body panels are damaged, and the underlying structure may also be compromised. If the engine is affected, the repair costs—already estimated at nearly $1 million—could soar even higher. For a dedicated collector, such a restoration might be worth the effort, but the costs will likely exceed the car’s original market value. Thankfully, the incident didn’t result in serious injuries, but it underscores just how much caution and skill are required to handle a car like the F40.

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This article examines the crash of a Ferrari F40 in the UK, shortly after the F40 accident involving Lando Norris’s model. It serves as a striking reminder of the raw power and challenges of driving this legendary supercar. From its historical significance to its demanding mechanics and the astronomical costs of repairs, this story perfectly captures the complexities of owning and driving an automotive icon.

Adrien Conges
Adrien Conges
I grew up near Magny-Cours, an old Formula 1 circuit in France so I've been passionate about motorsport and automobiles since childhood. I currently live in Bordeaux, France and I'm still waiting for Ferrari to win a 17th F1 constructors' title.

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