The 641 was a developed version of its predecessor, the 1989 Ferrari 640, designed by John Barnard. The updated 641 design was overseen by former McLaren designer Steve Nichols after Barnard left Ferrari to join the Benetton team, once the car's development was complete. The car was powered by a 3.5-litre V12 engine, first with the type 036, and later in San Marino with the updated 037.
The 641 was an upgraded model of its predecessor, the Ferrari 640, designed by John Barnard. Following Barnard's departure for Benetton, Steve Nichols supervised the updated design at McLaren. The car utilized a 3.5-litre V12 engine, initially with type 036, and later in San Marino with the improved 037.