Rare Ferrari Monza SP2 in Beverly Hills

A rare grey Ferrari Monza SP2, one of 499 Monzas (including both SP1s and SP2s) built, leaving the 2022 Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance. Introduced at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, the single-seat Monza SP1 and two-seat Monza SP2 were the first models in Ferrari's "Icona" series of limited production cars inspired by historic models. Based on the 812 Superfast, the Monza is powered by the 812's 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine modified to produce 799 horsepower, making it the most powerful Ferrari V12 road car at the time. It features carbon fiber barchetta bodywork with a patented "Virtual Wind Shield" directing airflow around the cockpit.

Somebody in Maranello figured, probably after a few drinks, that the best way to introduce Ferrari's most powerful V12 engine was to offer it to customers with about as much comfort and safety as a bobsled, then charge them around $2 million to cover the costs of developing a patented wind deflection mechanism rather than just use an existing device that has proven effective since Enzo was a little boy. It's crazy to think that anyone would want to drive on the streets in a high-performance car with no windshield. Convertibles have always raised safety concerns, but remove the windshield and the list of additional risks grows frighteningly long. Bad weather? Birds that need to relieve themselves? Debris kicked up by cars up ahead? That "Virtual Wind Shield" may deflect wind, but I have a feeling it won't deflect a rock. At least you'll encounter less obstacles if you drive so fast that there won't be anyone ahead of you to make those rocks fly at all.

The same reasons people consider this car crazy (or stupid) are the ones that make it awesome. Few cars offer such a raw open-air driving experience, and far fewer are capable of doing so at above 185 mph. Even when stopped, this car is undeniably sexy from its overall profile down to the fine little details. There's nothing like a long sleek front end housing a huge V12, and I also love the clean rear design with its concealed taillights, reminding me of the TVR Tuscan.

While the Monza's production numbers are close to those of most other exclusive Ferraris, chances are you'll see a lot fewer of these on the road simply because most owners aren't insane enough to drive them often. But as long as you stay safe and successfully dodge any flying objects, you're in for an exhilirating experience only a lucky few will ever get to experience. And if you're the type that prefers driving alone, you have the right to deny friends a ride home simply because they don't have a helmet. Or you can just opt for an SP1.

Would you drive a Monza SP1/SP2 on public roads? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!