Ferrari F333 SP
The Ferrari 333 SP is a sports prototype racing car that was designed and built by Dallara for Ferrari. It made its debut in 1994 and became one of the most successful and iconic sports cars in endurance racing during the 1990s.
Here’s a brief history of the Ferrari 333 SP:
Introduction (1994):
The 333 SP was introduced in 1994 to compete in the IMSA GT Championship in North America. It was developed as a collaboration between Ferrari, Dallara, and Michelotto, with the aim of returning Ferrari to top-level sports car racing.
Technical Specifications:
The car was powered by a 4.0-liter Tipo 036 V12 engine, derived from the Ferrari 641 Formula One car. It featured a lightweight chassis constructed of carbon fibre and aluminium honeycomb, helping to keep the weight down and enhance performance.
Success in IMSA:
The 333 SP quickly proved to be a formidable competitor, winning numerous races in the IMSA GT Championship. In its debut season in 1994, it secured victories at prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring.
International Racing:
While primarily designed for IMSA competition, the 333 SP also made appearances in international racing series. It participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it achieved success and demonstrated its competitiveness on the global stage.
Retirement:
The 333 SP continued to compete successfully until the late 1990s. However, as new regulations and technologies emerged, it eventually became outdated, leading to its retirement from top-tier racing.
Legacy:
Despite its relatively short racing career, the Ferrari 333 SP left a lasting legacy. It played a crucial role in re-establishing Ferrari’s presence in endurance racing and paved the way for subsequent sports prototype cars from the Italian manufacturer.
Collector’s Item:
Today, the Ferrari 333 SP is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its distinctive design, racing history, and association with the golden era of sports car racing contribute to its status as a prized classic.
The Ferrari 333 SP remains a significant chapter in Ferrari’s motorsport history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to high-performance racing and its ability to produce successful and iconic racing cars.
Ferrari F333 SP Technical Specifications
Year of Manufacture – 1994
ENGINE | ||
type | Rear, longitudinal 65° V12 | |
bore/stroke | 85 x 58.7 mm | |
unitary displacement | 333.09 cc | |
total displacement | 3997.11 cc | |
compression ratio | 13:1 | |
maximum power | 478 kW (650 hp) at 11,000 rpm | |
power per litre | 163 hp/l | |
maximum torque | 441 Nm (45 kgm) at 9000 rpm | |
valve actuation | twin overhead camshafts per bank, five valves per cylinder | |
fuel feed | Weber-Marelli electronic injection | |
ignition | electronic, single spark plug per cylinder | |
lubrication | dry sump | |
clutch | multi-plate | |
CHASSIS | ||
frame | carbon-fibre and aluminium honeycomb | |
front suspension | independent push-rod, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
rear suspension | independent push-rod, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
brakes | discs | |
transmission | sequential 5-speed + reverse | |
steering | rack-and-pinion | |
fuel tank | capacity 70 or 100 litres | |
front tyres | 25-11.5-17 | |
rear tyres | 27.5-14.5-17 | |
BODYWORK | ||
type | two-seater spider | |
length | 4569 mm | |
width | 2000 mm | |
height | 1025 mm | |
wheelbase | 2740 mm | |
front track | 1660 mm | |
rear track | 1572 mm | |
weight | 860 kg (dry) | |
PERFORMANCE | ||
top speed | 368 km/h | |
acceleration 0-100 km/h | 3.3 sec | |
0-400 m | – | |
0-1000 m | – |