A step into the future.
Emissions, fuel economy, power, performance. The days of the naturally-aspirated are coming to an end it seems thanks to these factors. The end of the Ferrari 458 Italia and its high-revving V-8 powerplant are just one example of the trend. The car that it replacing it, the Ferrari 488 GTB, is better in just about every way, thanks in part to its new 3.9-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 engine and other innovations.
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying the results. The new Ferrari 488 GTB serves up some serious track-like performance figures and responsiveness for the road. It’s what a supercar should be inside and out. All of Ferrari’s motorsport experience from WEC, Formula 1, and the factory XX programs has been packed into every nook and cranny of the newest Prancing Horse in the Maranello stable.
Easily the most intriguing aspect of the new Ferrari 488 GTB for gearheads is the new 3.9-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 engine. Unlike the 4.5-liter, naturally-aspirated V-8 engine used in the model it replaces, the new engine is boosted – something that hasn’t been commonplace in Maranello’s road-going cars for quite some time.
The new V-8 engine sits behind the cockpit and provides almost instantaneous responsiveness – a trait that’s not always associated with turbocharged engines. The time it takes for the accelerator to respond is just a mere 0.8 seconds at 2,000 RPM. A total of 660 horsepower is produced at 8,000 RPM and 561 lb-ft. at 3,000 in seventh gear. A new Variable Torque Management system is utilized by the gearbox to provide all the engine’s torque across the rev range as smooth as butter. Specific gear ratios help to deliver impressive acceleration as 62 mph is hit in just 3.0 seconds, flat from rest and 124 mph in only 8.3 ticks of the clock. The Fiorano lap time is also jaw-dropping with a 1-minute and 23-second result. A dynamic 46.5-percent front and 53.5-percent rear weight distribution coupled with a 3,020-lb. dry weight also contributes to that lap time as well.
Look beyond the engine and you’ll find some pretty innovative aerodynamics that also help the new Ferrari 488 GTB to get around Fiorano pretty damn quick. The supercar itself has set a Ferrari efficiency record with a 1.67 rating. The engineers and designers were able to not only increase the downforce by 50-percent over the 458 Italia, but reduce the drag as well. This difficult achievement was a result of new enhancements such as a double front spoiler, base bleed side intakes, and rear active aerodynamics with blown spoiler. An advanced underbody design incorporates vortex generators that keeps the car sticking to the asphalt.
The basis for the aerodynamics owes itself to the Ferrari Styling Centre, which designed the new mid-engined supercar. Many of the design elements in the Ferrari 488 GTB recall the 308 GTB, which made its debut 40 years ago. The large intake scallop pays homage to the classic model and is divided into two sections via a splitter that works with the front spoiler to channel air into the front radiators on either side. The center portion of the bumper features two vertical pylons and deflector that redirects air to the aerodynamic underbody. A wide, low rear with blown spoiler integrates seamlessly into the muscular rear fenders. New large, circular taillights and a taller rear diffuser below two round exhaust tips also decorate the wide rear fascia.
Electronics also play an important role in the performance of the new Ferrari 488 GTB. The brand’s motorsport background has led to advancements in this field for road-going vehicles. The latest version of Ferrari’s slide slip angle control (SSC2) is not as invasive as previous iterations and allows more lateral acceleration out of curves. The new system also works with the active dampers, F1-Trac, and E-Diff in the Ferrari 488 GTB to provide even greater limits for drivers.
The interior of the Ferrari 488 GTB is tailored for the driver. The new satellite control clusters, air vents, and instrument panel angle themselves towards the driver as they and the passenger are wrapped with generously-supported seats. Classic Ferrari elements such as a disconnect between dashboard and center tunnel, and multifunction steering wheel lend to a purer driving experience. Another high-end touch is the new key for the Ferrari 488 GTB, which bears resemblance to the cylinder banks and allows for keyless starting.
The new Ferrari 488 GT will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in March and pricing will be available at a later date.
Ferrari 488 GTB Specifications
Engine:
Type: V8 – 90° Turbo
Overall Displacement: 3902 cm3
Maximum Power: * 659.78 horsepower / 492 kW (670 CV) at 8000 RPM
Maximum Torque: * 560.45 lb-ft. / 760 Nm at 3000 RPM in 7th gear
Dimensions and Weight:
Length: 4568 mm
Width: 1952 mm
Height: 1213 mm
Dry Weight:** 1370 kg 3020 lbs.
Weight Distribution: 46.5% Front – 53.5% Rear
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.0 s
Acceleration 0-124 mph: 8.3 s
Maximum Speed > 205 mph / 330 km/h
Fuel Consumption:***
11.4 l/100 km
C02 Emissions: ***
260 g/km
* With 98 RON petrol
**With lightweight options
*** ECE+EUDC combined cycle with HELE system
Ferrari 488 GTB Gallery
Source: Ferrari
Are you excited about the turbocharged Ferrari 488 GTB?
