Forty years on from the launch
of Ferrari’s iconic first-ever mid-rear-engined V8 berlinetta, the 308 GTB, the
Ferrari 488 GTB now opens a new chapter in the history of cars with this
particular architecture. The car made its official debut at the 2015 Geneva
Motor Show. The 488 in the car’s moniker indicates the engine’s unitary
displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, a reference to
its deep roots in Ferrari history.
Credit for this achievement
must go to the Ferrari 488 GTB’s revolutionary proprietary solutions which
deliver a car at the top of its class in terms of power output (670 cv) with
engine and response times of just 0.8 and 0.06 seconds respectively.
Sophisticated dynamic vehicle controls make this performance completely
controllable even on the limit by drivers of all abilities, resulting in the
unique driving pleasure that only a Ferrari can deliver.
Ferrari drew extensively on
its experience in both Formula One and endurance racing, bringing to the road the
technology that delivered victory in two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
and the title in the WEC (World Endurance Championship). Also pivotal was the XX programme in which
Ferrari’s technicians have developed a unique knowledge of the dynamic behaviour
of extreme cars driven by non-professional drivers.
Extreme power was a requisite
for the car and is delivered by the new 3902 cc turbo engine coupled to a
seven-gear F1 dual-clutch gearbox featuring Variable Boost Management which
optimally distributes torque (a maximum 760 Nm in seventh gear). The Ferrari
488 GTB guarantees exuberant performance that is absolutely exploitable to the
fullest regardless of driving conditions and is accompanied by a deep,
seductive soundtrack, the signature of all Ferrari engines.
The Ferrari 488 GTB’s
revolutionary aerodynamics incorporate patented solutions, such as the blown
rear spoiler, as well as innovative features like the 458 GT-derived
aerodynamic underbody with vortex generators.
The result is a new efficiency record for a Ferrari (E=1.67). Downforce
increases to 325 kg at 250 km/h, thanks in part to active aerodynamic devices
which reduce drag whilst simultaneously generating downforce when required.
The Ferrari 488 GTB’s dynamic
vehicle controls have also been further evolved. It sports a new version of the
Side Slip Control System (SSC2) which, aside from just integrating with the
car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, now also controls the active dampers. This renders
the Ferrari 488 GTB’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter
and more stable, so that less expert drivers can enjoy its potential to the
fullest, resulting in an extremely thrilling driving experience.
Designed by the Ferrari
Styling Centre, the Ferrari 488 GTB’s sculptural forms are completely new. They
accentuate the car’s sportiness yet retain the classically clean, pure lines
typical of Ferrari’s legendary styling. The seamless interweaving of form and
function is clear in every detail, in fact. Certain design elements also draw
on styling cues from the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired scalloped flanks.