Ferrari builds Eric Clapton's $4 million SP12 EC

Ferrari has taken the wraps off its SP12 EC, a one-off supercar built for rock legend Eric Clapton.

Based on the Ferrari 458 Italia, the SP12 EC is a one-of-a-kind vehicle that was designed by Pininfarina and Centro Stile Ferrari and though the specifics are a closely guarded secret, it is likely powered by the same engine as its donor car, a 4.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine outputting 419kW/540Nm.

However the '12' in the SP12 EC name has led some to speculate that Clapton's custom sports car it is powered by Ferrari's latest 6.3-litre V12 engine, a 544kW/690Nm colossus.

The Prancing Horse exotic car was created as part of Ferrari's "Portfolio One-Off Programme" which allows cashed-up car lovers to get involved in many aspects of the design and engineering process.

Eric Clapton contributed much to the design of his car, which pays homage to his favourite model, the Ferrari 512 BB built during the mid '70s and '80s. He said that being personally involved in the project was "...one of the most satisfying things I've ever done".

The musician sometimes referred to as "God" by his most ardent fans said that creating the irreproducible Ferrari was like being in front of giant blank canvas and his design influence can be clearly seen towards the rear of the car, with a classic, curvaceous integrated spoiler.

The Ferrari SP12 EC also features the two-tone colour scheme of the original Ferrari 512 BB (pictured).

Ferrari explains that the car SP12 EC "was created as homage to Clapton's career and his long lasting experience as a Ferrari owner," and though neither party talks about expenditure, it is understood to have cost in excess of $4 million.

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