Specially design for long-time Ferrari enthusiast and rock legend Eric Clapton, the SP12 EC is built on a contemporary 458 Italia platform and utilizes the same powerful, revvy and flexibly 4.5-liter flat-plane V8, with 562BHP at 9000rpm and 398lb/ft at 6000rpm, rather than a horizontally-opposed 12-cylinder like the original 512BB.
Said by Ferrari to be a “homage to Clapton’s career and his long lasting experience as a Ferrari owner,” the SP12 EC is however the outcome of Clapton’s desire for a unique and modern interpretation of his favored Ferrari 512BB, of which he has owned three examples over the years. Designed by Centro Stile Ferrari in collaboration with legendary design studio Pininfarina, the SP12 EC’s curvier and gentler edged lines are straight out of Maranello’s 1970s playbook, while details like its grille, bonnet louvers, discrete top wing, integrated rear spoiler and rear fascia slats precisely pin it down as a 512BB tribute.
With weight expected to be similar to the 458 Italia’s 1430kg and the same 7-speed dual clutch gearbox, the SP12 EC should also rocket to 100km/h in 3.4-seconds and benefit from the Italia’s sublimely sharp, balanced and involving handling characteristics. However, it goes without saying that it takes a lot of clout and cash to have your very own one-off Ferrari built, and while the 458 Italia base car may be pricy at around US$ 230,000, the unique SP12 EC – delivered earlier this year – set Clapton back by a reported US$ 4.7 million
Specifications
Engine: 4.5-liter mid-mounted V8; Power, PS (BHP) [kW]: 562 (570) [419] @ 9000rpm; Torque, lb/ft (Nm): 398 (540) @ 6000rpm; 0-100km/h: 3.4-seconds; Top speed: over 320km/h; Gearbox: 7-speed dual clutch automated; Wheelbase: 2650mm; Weight: 1430kg (est.)
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