Ferrari Monza SP2 Review

In Malaysia's high-performance sports car market, limited-edition convertible supercars have always been one of the ultimate goals for niche players—able to unleash passionate track day performance while garnering 100% attention during city cruises. The 2019 Ferrari Monza SP2 V12, as a representative of the Icona series, uses the "roofless and windshield-less" Barchetta design as its core selling point, paired with an 810 horsepower naturally aspirated V12 engine. Such a configuration is virtually unmatched in its class. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify whether the driving experience of this legendary model on real roads matches its positioning as "track genes + vintage aesthetics."

The exterior design of the Monza SP2 is entirely focused on aerodynamics and paying homage to retro styling. The front adopts Ferrari's classic "shark nose" shape, with large air intakes on both sides of the front bumper directly connected to the front suspension cooling system. The two raised lines on the hood correspond to the layout of the V12 engine's cylinders, maximizing recognition. The car's side profile features a smooth single waistline design, extending from the fenders to the rear. The curve not only optimizes airflow but also enhances the sporty stance of the "two-seat convertible." The 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, paired with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires sized 275/30 at the front and 315/30 at the rear, further emphasize its performance orientation. The rear design is relatively simple, with LED taillights treated with a smoked effect. The quad round exhausts on either side are in harmony with the retro Barchetta style, while the diffuser is tuned entirely for track performance, providing stability through downforce at high speeds.

Entering the cabin, the Monza SP2's interior adopts a "minimalist functionality" theme, with all designs centered around driving. The center console is covered with a large amount of carbon fiber material, and the central 7-inch touchscreen retains only basic navigation and media functions. Physical buttons are concentrated on the steering wheel and paddle shifter area—the multifunctional steering wheel comes with the standard Manettino driving mode selector, allowing for switching between sport, track, and wet modes. The paddles are wrapped in Alcantara to enhance grip quality. The seats are one-piece carbon fiber bucket seats, covered with black leather and Alcantara material. The supports for the waist and legs are adjustable, ensuring the body remains securely fixed during spirited driving. It is worth noting that the cabin lacks a traditional instrument cluster. All driving information is displayed through a HUD and a small LCD screen on the left side of the steering wheel. This design reduces visual distractions and emphasizes the concept of "pure driving."

In terms of space, as a two-seater sports car, the Monza SP2 offers no rear seat space, while the front seating area fully accommodates drivers up to 180 cm tall—headroom is unrestricted due to the roofless design, and legroom still has a one-fist clearance after the seat is adjusted. Storage capacity is relatively limited, with only two small storage compartments located behind the front seats, suitable for storing items like phones and wallets. The trunk volume is undisclosed but based on actual experience, it can only fit a small backpack. As for comfort features, the cabin lacks an air conditioning system (relying solely on natural ventilation through ducts) and has no seat heating/ventilation functions. Such "primitive" settings are clearly more suitable for users who pursue pure driving experiences.

The performance is the core advantage of the Monza SP2. Equipped with a 6.5L naturally aspirated V12 engine, it delivers a maximum power of 810PS/8500rpm and a maximum torque of 719N·m/7000rpm, paired with a 7-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission. At launch, turn the Manettino dial to sport mode and press the accelerator deeply; the engine can unleash a linear torque output at 3000rpm, accelerating from 0-100km/h in just 2.9 seconds. The sense of pushback continues from start to the 8500rpm redline, with no turbo lag throughout, perfectly combining the smoothness and roaring sound of a naturally aspirated engine. During overtaking, the gearbox's downshift response is less than 0.1 seconds; even slight adjustments to the accelerator are immediately reflected by the engine. Its acceleration capability between high-speed ranges (120-200km/h) remains strong, fully meeting the performance positioning of a supercar.

The handling and chassis tuning focus on a track-oriented approach. The steering ratio of the steering wheel is extremely fast, requiring only 1.5 turns for full lock. It is precisely directional, allowing "point and go" handling, with every turn delivering a clear sense of road feedback. The suspension system uses a double-wishbone structure at both the front and rear, equipped with electronically controlled dampers. In sport mode, the suspension provides strong support, keeping body roll during cornering within 5 degrees. Even on ordinary bumpy roads, the damping system can filter out most minor vibrations, balancing a certain level of daily comfort. The braking system includes carbon-ceramic brake discs with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, allowing a braking distance of just 32 meters from 100-0km/h. There are no signs of thermal fading during continuous braking.

In specialized performance tests, the Monza SP2's fuel consumption aligns with expectations for a large displacement V12—fuel consumption on urban roads is approximately 22L/100km, reducing to 14L/100km during highway cruising (120km/h). The 90L fuel tank capacity provides a combined range of around 400km. Due to the lack of a windshield, high-speed driving creates an "air canopy" above the cockpit, and wind noise while wearing a helmet remains within an acceptable range (approximately 75dB at 120km/h). If no helmet is worn, the face will be directly exposed to airflow, making it suitable only for low-speed cruising. A kinetic energy recovery system is not equipped (for the fuel vehicle); ride comfort relies entirely on the wrapping of the seats and the shock-absorbing capacity of the chassis.

In summary, the core highlights of the 2019 Ferrari Monza SP2 V12 focus on three aspects: First is the unique open-top Barchetta design, combining retro aesthetics and aerodynamic performance; second is the pure power delivery from the 810-horsepower naturally aspirated V12 engine, offering a linear acceleration experience without turbo lag, which is almost extinct these days; third is the track-oriented handling tuning, providing precise steering and stable chassis to satisfy the driving demands of advanced enthusiasts. Compared to its class rival, the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster, the Monza SP2 slightly outperforms in terms of power parameters and features a more distinctive design. However, in terms of daily practicality, the latter's retractable hardtop and air conditioning system make it more suitable for everyday use.

The overall performance of this car fully matches its positioning as a "limited edition collectible supercar," and its target consumer group is very clear: First, loyal collectors of the Ferrari brand who pursue the rarity and retro value of the Icona series; second, high-level track enthusiasts who love the pure driving experience and can accept the "primitive" riding sensation brought by the roofless design; third, users who enjoy showcasing their individuality at high-end events, as the Monza SP2's attention-grabbing potential far exceeds that of regular supercars.

Final conclusion: The 2019 Ferrari Monza SP2 V12 is not a supercar suitable for daily commuting. It is Ferrari's modern tribute to the classic Barchetta design and the "swan song" of the naturally aspirated V12 engine era. If you are in pursuit of a pure driving passion and unparalleled collectible value, it is definitely a choice you cannot miss; however, if you need a supercar that balances practicality, it might not be the best answer.