RML SWB: The Neo-Retro Ferrari Dreams Are Made Of
Powered by the V12 heart of a 550 Maranello with the body styling of the classic 240 GT SWB, this ultra-rare custom can do no wrong.
The RML Group is one of the largest automotive engineering consulting companies you’ve probably never heard of. However, this British technology powerhouse has been creating innovative solutions for OEMs and motorsport partners since the 1980’s.
Whether it is building prototypes or designing race cars, RML has done it all. They have gained the alliance of over 20 different OEMs over the years throughout a variety of projects from concept cars to low-volume manufacturing.
From a motorsport angle, they have won dozens of championships across fields of disciplines such as rally, touring car, and Le Mans Prototype. They have now taken their vast bank of knowledge and robust engineering capabilities to finally create their first original vehicle.
This car is known as the RML SWB, short for Short Wheelbase, inspired by the iconic Ferrari 250 GT SWB. As expected of company with the immaculate quality standard of the RML Group, they truly outdid themselves with the details of this beautiful vehicle.
Combining the best of the old and the new
RML’s intention when creating this exclusive vehicle was to provoke the purest driving experience possible with their take on a modern classic sports car. The result is a perfect fusion of old-school design elements with modern technology applied to the Grand Tourer ideology.
One of the most critical components of this stunning chassis is undoubtedly the 485 HP 5.5L Ferrari V12 powering it. Sourced from the 550 Maranello, this all-aluminum V12 was a big departure from the mid-engine philosophy that had defined the brand.
However, the front-mounted engine would find a perfect home in the RML SWB, as the chassis is also based on the 550 Maranello. Even still, there were some major modifications necessary to fit the large engine into the more compact frame.
Inlet, cooling and exhaust systems had to be designed from scratch so they would integrate with a more compact body, but still perform effectively in even more demanding driving environments. Imagine, for example, making full use of the car’s performance and then hitting a traffic jam in downtown Dubai in 50-degree heat – well, that’s what it’s designed to cope with.
When seeing how stunningly crafted and precise the layout of the engine bay is, we wouldn’t bat an eye if you told us Ferrari designed it themselves.
Production will be limited to 30 units overall
To no surprise, the RML SWB was created with the intention of being a ultra-low volume unit for only a few very lucky enthusiasts. These limited models will be built to exact customer specifications down to the last stitch of leather.
Let’s be honest, there isn’t another custom Ferrari quite like this one. Tell me where were else you can find a curvaceous carbon fiber body like this one, a gated 6-speed manual, and Apple CarPlay all in one?
Future owners will also be happy to hear that the SWB will retain an outstanding level of serviceability as many OEM parts are used. Even better, RML themselves will offer a “flying spanner” service, where the company will send out technicians to deal with any maintenance or issues regardless of location.
Although a price has not been confirmed, do not expect the luxury and uniqueness offered by this Ferrari to come cheap. We will see an official release of the SWB by the end of the year. We can’t wait to see more.
