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Very Special, Very Fast
Ferrari J50

Ferrari announced a new limited-edition model this week in Tokyo. The J50, as you may have guessed from its launching location and name, celebrates Ferrari’s 50th anniversary in Japan and is based on the 488 Spider. The 3.9-litre V8 engine has been specially tuned up from the standard 660 hp to output 680 hp.

The bodywork is brand new, opting for a low-slung roadster with futuristic design language. The J50 looks markedly different from the standard 488 Spider and overall presents a more aggressive aesthetic. A striking black dividing line pays homage to iconic Ferrari models such as F40 and F50, while the bonnet is lower at the centre, and the two carbon fibre air channels in front contribute to the dynamic look. Aerodynamics are also well taken care of with the redesigned bumper and lowered windscreen header rail. There is a also a unique design feature around the carbon-fibre targa top: it is divided into two pieces and can be stowed in a designated spot behind the seats.

Only 10 examples will be built with bespoke customisations. Ferrari presents an example a with triple layer of special red paint and a red-over-black interior, but it is possible that all 10 cars will look very different according to the individual buyer’s preference and taste.

So does that mean we should expect to see the HK40 model sometime soon? One can only hope…