Ferrari Icona Series

The Ferrari Icona Series: A Modern Celebration of Ferrari’s Heritage

The Ferrari Icona series represents a unique chapter in Ferrari’s history, blending cutting-edge technology with design inspired by some of the brand’s most legendary cars. Launched as a limited-production series, the Icona lineup—featuring the Monza SP1, Monza SP2, and Daytona SP3—pays homage to Ferrari’s racing and design legacy while pushing the boundaries of modern supercar performance.

These cars are not only engineering marvels but also works of art, reflecting Ferrari’s ability to seamlessly combine heritage with innovation. In this article, we’ll explore the history, model variants, performance highlights, critical reception, and legacy of Ferrari’s Icona Series.

Celebrating Ferrari’s Past Through Innovation

The Ferrari Icona Series was unveiled in 2018, with the Monza SP1 and SP2 as the first models under this exclusive lineup.

The goal of the Icona Series is to draw inspiration from Ferrari’s rich racing and design heritage, reimagining iconic models for the modern era. These limited-edition cars are crafted for Ferrari’s most loyal clients and collectors, showcasing a level of exclusivity that reinforces Ferrari’s brand prestige.

Each Icona car is inspired by a specific era or series of cars from Ferrari’s history, blending classic design cues with contemporary engineering. By doing so, Ferrari not only celebrates its legacy but also reinforces its reputation as a leader in automotive innovation.

Monza SP1, SP2, and Daytona SP3

Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 (2018)

The Monza SP1 and SP2 debuted in 2018 as the inaugural models of the Icona Series. Inspired by Ferrari’s 1950s open-cockpit racing cars like the 166 MM and 750 Monza, these cars are characterized by minimalist, retro-futuristic designs.

• SP1 (Single-Seater): The Monza SP1 is a single-seater, emphasizing purity and exclusivity. It eliminates any distraction of a passenger, allowing the driver to focus entirely on the car’s performance.

• SP2 (Two-Seater): The Monza SP2 adds a second seat and windscreen, making it a more social experience while retaining the driver-centric ethos.

Both the SP1 and SP2 are powered by Ferrari’s 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 809 horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque. These lightweight, open-top barchettas can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of over 186 mph.

The Monza SP1 and SP2 also feature advanced aerodynamics, with a virtual windscreen that channels air around the cockpit. The cars’ carbon fiber construction ensures agility and responsiveness, delivering a raw yet refined driving experience.

Ferrari Daytona SP3 (2021)

The Daytona SP3, introduced in 2021, takes inspiration from Ferrari’s iconic endurance race cars of the 1960s, particularly the 330 P3/4, 412 P, and 512 S. Unlike the Monza models, the Daytona SP3 features a closed cockpit and a dramatic targa-style roof.

• Design: The Daytona SP3’s sculpted body features dramatic curves, prominent wheel arches, and intricate aerodynamics, making it a modern interpretation of Ferrari’s classic racing designs. Its louvered rear panel and twin exhausts nod to Ferrari’s Le Mans-winning race cars.

• Performance: The Daytona SP3 is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine derived from the 812 Competizione, producing 828 horsepower and 514 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, it can achieve 0 to 60 mph in just 2.85 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph.

• Engineering: Built on a carbon-fiber monocoque, the Daytona SP3 benefits from advanced materials and lightweight construction. It also features a bespoke chassis setup, offering exceptional handling and cornering capabilities.

Engineering Excellence Across the Series

The Ferrari Icona Series showcases Ferrari’s expertise in combining raw power with precision engineering. Across all models, naturally aspirated V12 engines are the centerpiece, delivering exhilarating performance and an emotional connection that turbocharged or hybrid systems can’t replicate.

• Acceleration and Speed: Each Icona model is capable of sub-3-second 0-60 mph times, with top speeds exceeding 186 mph. The Daytona SP3, being the most powerful, pushes these limits further.

• Handling and Aerodynamics: The Icona cars utilize Ferrari’s cutting-edge aerodynamic innovations, including active airflow management and lightweight construction, ensuring agility and stability at high speeds.

• Driver Engagement: Whether it’s the open-cockpit SP1 and SP2 or the targa-roof Daytona SP3, each model offers an immersive driving experience that connects the driver to Ferrari’s racing heritage.

Top Gear described the Daytona SP3 as “a love letter to the golden age of racing, wrapped in Ferrari’s latest and greatest technology.”

Iconic from Day One

The Ferrari Icona Series has been universally praised for its design, performance, and ability to pay homage to Ferrari’s past while remaining innovative.

• Monza SP1 and SP2: Critics lauded the Monza’s minimalist design and thrilling performance. Evo Magazine called the Monza SP1 “a masterclass in automotive art,” while Motor Trend praised its ability to deliver “a raw, unfiltered driving experience.”

• Daytona SP3: The Daytona SP3 received similar acclaim for its stunning design and engineering. Car and Driver described it as “Ferrari at its most creative,” highlighting its blend of classic inspiration and modern technology.

Future Classics in the Making

The Ferrari Icona Series is already considered a collector’s dream. With production numbers capped (499 for the Monza SP1/SP2 and 599 for the Daytona SP3), these cars are highly exclusive. They appeal not only for their stunning aesthetics and performance but also for their historical significance as celebrations of Ferrari’s heritage.

These cars stand as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. They’ve also set a new benchmark for ultra-limited series vehicles, with other manufacturers taking inspiration from Ferrari’s approach.

The Icona Series’ Timeless Appeal

The Ferrari Icona Series is a masterstroke of design and engineering, proving that heritage and innovation can coexist in perfect harmony. Whether it’s the open-air purity of the Monza SP1 and SP2 or the dramatic performance of the Daytona SP3, the Icona Series represents Ferrari at its best: bold, creative, and utterly uncompromising.

With their exclusivity, stunning design, and exceptional performance, the Icona models are not just cars—they are symbols of Ferrari’s enduring legacy. These cars are destined to remain icons, capturing the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors for generations to come.