Ferrari CZ26: the unique SF90 unlikely to join Cristiano Ronaldo’s garage

Last week, a garage attracted plenty of attention after Cristiano Ronaldo gave us a glimpse of some of the models within it. However, Ferrari’s newly unveiled model is highly unlikely ever to join that collection.

That is not down to its price, but rather to the project’s foundation: it was conceived as a one-off for one particular client and is the latest creation from Ferrari’s Special Projects division.

Ferrari CZ26: a bespoke 1970s-inspired design

Named the CZ26, it was styled under the direction of Flavio Manzoni, the Italian marque’s head of design. It is technically based on the SF90, although it receives entirely new bodywork. According to Ferrari, the supercar takes inspiration from Italian industrial design of the 1970s, pursuing a more technological and futuristic design language.

The CZ26 body is defined by more horizontal lines, cleaner surfaces and several red accents. At the front, there is visually very little left of the car on which it is based. The headlamps have been replaced by exceptionally slim LED elements, incorporated into a black panel spanning almost the vehicle’s full width.

Its surface treatment is also markedly different, helping to create a lower, wider stance while almost entirely concealing its relationship with the SF90.

A radically revised rear end

The redesign carries through to the rear. The lights are now much slimmer, while the lower section no longer features the SF90’s V-shaped treatment. It has been replaced by a predominantly horizontal arrangement, with a new diffuser and a small spoiler built into the bodywork itself.

The two centrally positioned exhaust outlets are among the few details that create a more immediate visual link to the donor model.

Underneath, it remains an SF90

Despite the exterior overhaul, Ferrari has left the SF90’s mechanical formula untouched. The CZ26 retains the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and three electric motors, delivering a combined output of 1000 hp. Its performance remains striking: 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 328 km/h.

Its top speed is lower than the SF90’s 340 km/h, explained by both the new exterior design and revisions to the cooling and aerodynamics. These include the car’s floor, the front air curtains, rear spoiler and diffuser.

The aim was to ensure the new styling did not compromise aerodynamic performance, while using the fresh surfaces to increase downforce. The contrasting red details also help to highlight several of the CZ26’s aerodynamic solutions.

Inside, the changes are far more subtle. The SF90’s architecture remains, but this individual example gains new materials and bespoke finishes. Ferrari has paired black technical fabric with carbon fibre, and even used 3D printing to create inserts for the seats.

How much does the Ferrari CZ26 cost?

As is customary for Ferrari Special Projects, neither the price nor the owner’s identity has been disclosed. These unique cars are developed in close collaboration with the client, and the process can last for around two years.

The CZ26 will make its public debut during Monterey Car Week in the United States, specifically at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Although it shares its mechanical package with a Ferrari we already know well, there will not be another one exactly like it.