This unique Ferrari F40 "blue chip" is for sale: blasphemy or masterpiece?

A heresy for some, a masterpiece for others. Modifying a Ferrari F40 is blasphemy in the world of purists. And yet, here's a version that everyone agrees on: the Ferrari F40 "Blue Chip", a unique example, tastefully and rigorously metamorphosed, soon to be auctioned in Monterey by RM Sotheby's. Estimated price? Up to $2.8 million. Not surprising, then, for this F40, which shakes up codes while sublimating Enzo Ferrari's legacy.

An F40, yes. But not red.

Leaving the factory in July 1992, this F40 was originally a pure Italian, delivered to Bologna in its traditional Rosso Corsa livery. It enjoyed a busy life with its first owners in Italy, before being exported to the UK in 1998. There, in 2021, everything changed: entrusted to Furlonger Specialist Cars, it began a spectacular transformation.

The first bold move? Abandon Ferrari red for Azzurro Hyperion, a light blue metallic that is both elegant and radical, redefining the icon's lines. The result is striking. Sublimated, the raw, sharp silhouette of the F40 becomes a sculpture in motion, between tradition and modernity.

Race-inspired mechanical transformation

But there's more to this "Blue Chip" than just a new look. Under the skin, it's an F40 LM in its sleep. It comes with :

• a racing gearbox from the Le Mans version,
• a Tubi exhaust system that screams to life,
• a modified relief valve to fine-tune turbo response,
• much more powerful 355 mm Brembo brakes,
• KW adjustable suspension,
• and even... air conditioning, a rare luxury on an F40.

Extensive modifications, but carried out with respect for the car's DNA. So much so, in fact, that the 18-inch rims - essential for the big brakes - are exactly the same design as the originals. Tailor-made down to the smallest detail.

Blue like the sky

Inside, the transformation continues with a cabin upholstered in alcantara blue, matching bucket seats and a completely redone headliner. A perfect harmony with the bodywork, contrasting with the austerity of the classic F40.

With just over 32,000 km on the clock, some purists will frown. But its impeccable condition and Ferrari Classiche certificate, issued before conversion, are enough to reassure even the most demanding collectors.

Why it could break records

This F40 is not just rare. It is unique. A singular collector's item, restored and optimized without ever betraying the original spirit of the model. At a time when classic Ferraris are skyrocketing in value, and tastefully customized examples are becoming increasingly popular, this F40 "Blue Chip" ticks all the right boxes to raise the bidding.

Back in 2023, an F40 repainted in mint green sold for $1.79 million. This blue version, more extreme, more polished, more racy, could logically top the 2.8 million mark.