Ferrari Enzo Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics as a means of developing vehicle performance has been part of Ferrari culture and a hallmark of the brand since the 1960s.

For the Enzo, Ferrari set itself two pure performance targets, milestones for ultra-fast cars:

• To increase fast cornering grip through downforce
• To maintain a top speed approaching 220mph

Because the high downforce necessary to the first goal conflicts with the low drag required to attain the second, Ferrari had to be aerodynamically and technologically innovative. In Formula One racing, cars are provided aerodynamic accessories and set ups specific to each circuit. For the Enzo, Ferrari developed active, integrated, adaptive aerodynamics.

With reference to the objectives outlined above, and to the varying difficulties of configuring a car for both low-to-medium speeds and high-to-very high speeds respectively, Ferrari developed a variable aerodynamic system for the Enzo. The car can alter its ground clearance to better control the channel of underbody air between its nose and rear diffusers, and deploy visually subtle but highly effective front and rear aerodynamic aids depending on the need for downforce or low drag and to regulate balance and heat dispersion. This solution allows the Enzo to reliably attain downforce of 758lbs at 125mph, 1708lbs at 186mph, and 1289lbs at a speed of 217 mph, while designed to achieve the desired handling characteristics.