British company RML Group announced more details about the Short Wheelbase limited production model, designed as an homage to the classic Ferrari 250 GT SWB. While the car is based on a Ferrari 550 Maranello chassis, the suspension setup will be modified with the goal of offering “the sophistication of a modern performance car, but with a more organic and engaging character”.
RML states that the carbon-fiber bodywork of the Short Wheelbase results in improved rigidity compared to the aluminum-bodied 550 Maranello, plus contributing to a weight reduction while sharing the same backbone chassis and wheelbase. Suspension changes include a set of passive Ohlins dampers replacing the active Bilstein dampers found in the 550. The Short Wheelbase also gets unique spring rates, and anti-roll bars while sitting closer to the ground for sharper driving dynamics. The 18-inch retro-styled alloy wheels are shod in Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tires, an option that was selected for easier maintenance compared to a custom-made tire.
Using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) technology, the engineering team was able to test the aerodynamics of the redesigned body, which are different from the 550, affecting factors like the lift at high speed. According to Nic Rutherford, Project Lead Engineer for the Short Wheelbase, the reduced front overhang moved the car’s weight closer to the center of gravity, benefiting drivability. Additionally, for an improved weight balance, the battery was moved from the engine bay to the boot.
As a reminder, under the bonnet of the RML Short Wheelbase lies the naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V12 producing 478 hp and 570 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear axle through a six-speed manual transmission. RML estimates the Short Wheelbase will accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 4.1 seconds while its top speed will exceed the 297 km/h mark.
The first car will be completed this October, offered to the press for reviews. Then, the company will proceed with the production of the remaining 30 customer cars, with deliveries starting in the first quarter of 2022. The RML Short Wheelbase is not the only Ferrari 250 inspired model that was unveiled this year, with the similarly designed GTO Engineering Squalo – also with a V12 engine – also being under the final stages of development.
