Ferrari has unveiled their latest supercar – the 488 GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) – a mid-engine turbocharged V8 that will become the successor to the 458.
The release of the 488 GTB will mark forty years after the unveiling of its first ever mid-rear-engined V8 model, the 308 GTB.
The Ferrari 488 GTB will be powered by a new 3902 cc V8 twin-turbocharged engine that produces 661bhp and 760 Nm of maximum torque. This allows the 488 GTB to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds and 0-200 km/h in an astonishing 8.3 seconds. This amount of power combined with the aero innovations on the car mean it can lap the Fiorano track in just 1’23”.
Controlling the wealth of power at the heart of the 488 GTB is a gearbox that features Variable Torque Management which unleashes the engine’s massive torque smoothly and powerfully right across the rev range, while specific gear ratios deliver progressive acceleration when the driver floors the throttle.
In addition to this, Ferrari say their engineers have dedicated great attention to perfecting the 488 GTB’s sound, “creating a new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive, as expected from any Prancing Horse engine.”
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the new car features very sculptural sides giving it a wide and purposeful looking stance.
Its large signature air intake is a nod to the original 308 GTB and is divided into two sections by a splitter.
The wide front spoiler features a double profile to improve the thermal efficiency of the radiators positioned at the sides and at the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which works to channels air towards the flat underbody.
Furthermore, the broad, low tail is also dominated by aerodynamic design that includes an innovative blown spoiler capable of generating downforce without increasing drag.
This works in conjunction with an aggressive ramp angle for the diffuser which features active flaps. The greater height required for the diffuser was achieved by repositioning the exhaust tailpipes and the circular LED tail lights have also been redesigned.
The Italian supercar creators say the 488 GTB “provides track-level performance that can be enjoyed to the full even by non-professional drivers in everyday use.
Its response times, nimbleness and on-the-limit driving guarantee a unique sense of exhilaration and unparalleled driving pleasure.”
The Ferrari 488 GTB will make its world debut at the International 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month, but from today can be seen at www.ferrari.com
