Legendary Ferrari F40 owned by F1 figure Jean Sage to be auctioned after unique modifications

A highly coveted Ferrari F40, once owned by Jean Sage, a significant figure in European motorsport and former head of Renault's Formula 1 project, is heading to auction. This particular F40 is notable not only for its previous owner but also for its unique specifications and modifications.

Acquired by Sage in April 1990, the car is an early "non-cat, non-adjust" model, prized by collectors for its purity. Sage, who had extensive experience with the F40 through his work at Ferrari France, decided to push the car's performance further.

In 1994, Sage commissioned Giuliano Michelotto, an Italian tuner involved in the development of racing Ferraris, to modify his F40. The goal was to create a version inspired by racing cars that could still be legally driven on public roads. Michelotto undertook a complete overhaul of the vehicle.

The engine received special IHI turbochargers and a lighter exhaust system developed by Maurice Chabo. These enhancements aimed to elevate the car's performance while respecting its road-legal status, making it a unique blend of track-inspired engineering and street usability.