The Ferrari 499P is a race car from the LMH class (Le Mans Hypercar) that debuted in 2023, and it’s still hitting the tracks today. This ride marks Ferrari's return to the top tier of endurance racing after taking a break since 1973. The car was specifically built for the FIA World Endurance Championship, blending cutting-edge hybrid tech with aerodynamic precision. The engineering team behind the Ferrari 499P was led by Ferdinando Cannizzo, who’s well-known for his expertise in Ferrari’s Competizioni GT division and his contributions to car development. Following the success of Ferrari's GT programs like the 488 GTE, the Ferrari 499P is a big deal in the modern racing world.
Under the hood of the Ferrari 499P lies a sweet mix of a 3.0-liter (about 0.8 gallon) V6 twin-turbo engine paired with a 200 kW electric motor. This hybrid setup gives the car a max output of 680 hp—right at the limit for the LMH class. A standout aspect is its electronic all-wheel-drive system, which kicks in the electric motor on the front axle at certain speeds. The body is almost entirely made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, making the car super lightweight and aerodynamically slick. The front design is particularly eye-catching, featuring sharp headlights and strategic airflow channels. Specialized Michelin tires ensure the best grip on the track, and the braking system incorporates advanced energy recovery technology.
The Ferrari 499P has shown off its prowess in endurance racing, scoring a victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023. This win marked Ferrari's first overall victory at Le Mans in 58 years, making a serious statement against competitors like Toyota and Porsche. The driver trio of Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado, and Antonio Giovinazzi were crucial for this historic win. Their ability to tap into the car's potential in different racing conditions highlighted its strengths in efficiency, speed, and reliability. Besides Le Mans, the Ferrari 499P has also clinched impressive placements in other FIA WEC races, significantly boosting Ferrari's brand value in motorsport.
The showcased model car in 1/18 scale has been crafted by Looksmart and perfectly replicates the Ferrari 499P driven by number 50 in 2024. Made from mixed materials, this mini-version captures all the intricate details of the original. The model’s paint job mirrors the original color scheme in red and yellow, complete with sponsor decals from Shell, Richard Mille, Adler, and HP. Everything from the eye-catching number 50 to the tiny technical details like the air intakes and the sharply defined front end is finely crafted. The visible aerodynamics and sharp lines of the bodywork reflect the innovative spirit of the original vehicle.
One of the coolest aspects of the model is the careful attention to detail. The wheels, brakes, and even the tiny logos on the tires showcase the original look perfectly. The design highlights the signature air intakes and aerodynamic features, as well as the cockpit with numbered stickers. This model, part of the collection of member "AudiSport," is a standout piece for serious collectors of racing miniatures. Not to be missed are the prominent sponsor logos, including Adler and Richard Mille, which stay true to the car's racing history. This model stands as a lively testament to Ferrari's racing heritage and is a perfect addition to any miniature collection.