The Ferrari F50 is a car model produced from 1995 to 1997 as the successor to the legendary F40. It was unveiled for Ferrari's 50th anniversary and symbolizes the brand's technological advancement. The F50 was developed by engineer Antonio Ribotta and designed by Pininfarina. It features a 4.7-liter V12 engine originally developed for the 1990 Formula 1 car, the Ferrari 641. The car reached a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h) and could accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.8 seconds. As the second generation of the supercar, built from 1995 to 1997, the F50 prioritized lightweight construction and aerodynamic efficiency.
The Ferrari F50 is equipped with a 60-degree V12 engine that delivers 519 horsepower at 8,500 revolutions per minute. The car weighs only 2,712 lbs (1,230 kg), resulting in an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 2.37 kg/hp. The engine is bolted directly to the chassis, increasing structural rigidity and improving handling. Noteworthy features include the six-speed manual transmission and adjustable suspension. This technical masterpiece owes its excellence in part to Ferrari's Formula 1 expertise, with technologies from motorsport being directly incorporated into production. This also includes the influence of engineers like Roberto Fedeli, who played a significant role in the success of the F50.
The model showcased here, part of Modelly member "Kristian's" collection, is a 1/18 scale replica of the Ferrari F50 manufactured by Bburago. The miniature car is crafted from a blend of materials ensuring accuracy and durability. The paintwork is in a classic Ferrari red displaying the iconic Ferrari logo on the hood and along the flanks. The replica showcases precise details like the aerodynamic lines, double bumper, and uniquely shaped headlights. The wheels appear to be meticulously reproduced, though the exact manufacturer of the wheels is not identifiable.
In 1995, when the Ferrari F50 was first unveiled, significant events such as the introduction of the Java programming language and the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin, the Prime Minister of Israel, captured global attention. These events help to better understand the temporal context of the vehicle. The 1/18 scale model of the Ferrari F50 by Bburago allows collectors to own a piece of this historic automotive era and admire the fine details that make the original Ferrari F50 so special. Collecting such miniatures provides a deep insight into the history and technology of vehicles that have had a lasting impact on the automotive world.