This is, undeniably, my new favorite Ferrari story. Imagine spotting a Ferrari F40, not in a pristine garage, but casually parked on a street. This incredible sight, featuring a Ferrari F40, complete with a touch of duct tape on the hood – a testament to a minor parking mishap involving a Toyota Yaris – is a refreshing departure from the concours lawns we often associate with this legendary supercar.
The story of this particular F40 comes from an email tip sent to us by an astute car enthusiast named Will. For those unaware, the Ferrari F40 is not just any car. Valued at around a million dollars at auction, these vehicles are celebrated for their pioneering status as the first production car to (claim to) surpass 200 mph. More than just speed, they represent the pinnacle of raw, analog supercar design, a high point for the automotive world of the 1980s.
There’s something truly special about seeing an F40 like this. Ferrari produced around 1,311 of these iconic machines. While many are meticulously preserved in collections, this one is out in the world, being used and seen. It’s a reminder that these cars, despite their value, are meant to be experienced.
Will’s email, titled “My neighbor street parks a Ferrari F40,” perfectly encapsulates the situation. The location has been kept discreet for obvious reasons, but the essence of his message is clear:
“The email title says it all. Yes, it’s not red, but it’s a genuine F40. You won’t find a carbon kevlar monocoque or a twin-turbo, intercooled V8 in many Fieros. This guy parks it incredibly close to me and clearly doesn’t worry about much. I once chatted with him about it. There’s an interesting story behind the matte vinyl wrap. For those relieved to hear it’s a wrap and the original red paint is underneath (visible near the door handle), you’re right. But maybe stop reading now to avoid any shock. My other neighbor backed into it with her Toyota Yaris, even driving over the hood. He replaced the hood and wrapped the car to cover the damage. Unfortunately, another incident, possibly involving the same Yaris or his garage door, led to more scuffs on the hood, hence the duct tape. He mentioned track days, but I know he uses the passenger seat for spare wheels, tires, parts, and even trash. Many might be appalled, but seeing this makes you question anyone who keeps their F40 locked away. Drive your cars, use them for everyday life! This owner is awesome, though maybe my Yaris-driving neighbor is even more so for unintentionally adding to the car’s character.”
There was some initial skepticism from a colleague, Mike Ballaban, who questioned the F40’s authenticity, pointing out the ride height and chin spoiler. However, the ride height appears to be due to a slightly low front passenger tire, and the chin spoiler is indeed slightly detached. Doubts about the twin-turbo V8 were quickly dismissed, especially considering videos of this car online, showcasing its unmistakable engine sound.
Further research reveals that some of the car’s unique features might stem from it being a U.S.-spec model, which has subtle differences as detailed in a Supercars.net post from 1990.
Ultimately, the more you consider it, the more normal this F40 becomes. It’s simply a person using a 30-year-old car like a 30-year-old car – with all the stories, imperfections, and everyday realities that come with it. This street-parked, slightly battered Ferrari F40 is not just a car; it’s a statement about enjoying life and your machines, regardless of their value or rarity.
