Ferrari 488 GTB: extreme power for extreme driving thrills
Posted: 03.02.2015
Source: Ferrari
The new V8 debuts at Geneva: track-level performance and responsiveness for the road
Maranello, 3 February 2015 – Forty years on from the unveiling of its first ever mid-rear-engined V8 model, the 308 GTB, the Prancing Horse opens a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history. The Ferrari 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 new berlinetta brilliantly encapsulates Ferrari’s experience in both F1 and the WEC, where the 458 GT holds the World Championship title and has won its category in the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The new model also exploits to the full the know-how gleaned by Ferrari technicians over the last decade through the XX programme which makes extreme track-only cars available to gentleman test-drivers. The data yielded has made a significant contribution to the refinement of the electronic and vehicle control systems so that drivers can make the most of the incredible performance of this new car.
The Ferrari 488 GTB’s new 3902 cc V8 turbo is at the top of its class for power output, torque and response times, making it the new benchmark for this kind of architecture. The engine unleashes 670 cv at 8,000 rpm along with 760 Nm of maximum torque in seventh gear and a response time to the accelerator of just 0.8 seconds at 2,000 rpm. These figures are sufficient to allow the Ferrari 488 GTB to accelerate from 0-200 km/h in an astonishing 8.3 seconds and, when combined with the radical innovations introduced on all aspects of the car’s performance, lap the Fiorano track in just 1’23”.
The gearbox features Variable Torque Management which unleashes the engine’s massive torque smoothly and powerfully right across the rev range, while specific gear ratios deliver incredibly progressive acceleration when the driver floors the throttle. As is always the case, Ferrari’s 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.
The car’s aerodynamics also made a pivotal contribution to performance: its 1.67 efficiency figure is a new record for a production Ferrari, and is the fruit of 50 per cent more downforce than the previous model and reduced drag. The greatest challenge was achieving these two goals simultaneously. Several innovative elements were specifically developed to do so, not least a double front spoiler, base bleed side intakes and, at the rear, active aerodynamics coupled with a blown spoiler. The aerodynamic underbody, which incorporates vortex generators, is highly sophisticated, too.
The Ferrari 488 GTB’s subsystems and electronic controls make its power and performance instantly available and controllable. It is, in fact, the most responsive production model there is, with razor-sharp response times comparable to those of a track car.
The evolved version of Ferrari’s side slip angle control system (Side Slip Control 2 – SSC2) is more precise and less invasive, providing greater longitudinal acceleration out of corners. Aside from integrating with car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, the SSC2 now also controls the active dampers which renders the car’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter and more stable.
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the new car features very sculptural flanks which are the key to its character. Its large signature air intake scallop 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. At the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which channels air towards the flat underbody. The broad, low tail is also dominated by aerodynamic solutions, including an innovative blown spoiler which generates 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. The circular LED tail lights have also been redesigned.
In the cabin, the seamless integration of the new satellite control clusters, angled air vents and instrument panel heightens the sense that the cockpit is completely tailored around the driver. Usability was the key word in the design, leading to an extremely sporty ambience that in no way compromises on comfort. There are plenty of classic Ferrari styling elements too, such as the clear separation between the dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control switch bridge and wraparound seats. The graphics and interface of the infotainment screen have also been completely redesigned while the design of the car’s new key takes its inspiration from the car’s cylinder banks and allows keyless starts.
The Ferrari 488 GTB will make its world debut at the International Geneva Motor Show in March, but from today can be seen at www.ferrari.com.
Ferrari 488 GTB – Technical specifications
ENGINE
Type V8 – 90° Turbo
Overall displacement 3902 cm3
Maximum power * 492 kW (670 CV) at 8000 rpm
Maximum torque * 760 Nm at 3000 rpm in VII gear
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
Length 4568 mm
Width 1952 mm
Height 1213 mm
Dry weight** 1370 kg
Weight distribution 46.5% Front – 53.5% Rear
PERFORMANCE
0-100 km/h 3.0 s
0 -200 km/h 8.3 s
Maximum speed > 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
The Ferrari 488 GTB: Bringing the track to the road
Posted: 27.02.2015
Source: Ferrari
The new V8 exploits Maranello’s experience in F1 and GT racing and the XX Programme
Maranello, 27 February – Close links between track and road cars have always been part and parcel of Ferrari’s DNA. Now the 488 GTB becomes the latest model to benefit from the Prancing Horse’s experience on the world’s circuits. Not just in Formula 1 but also endurance racing. In fact, the 458 GT twice took the WEC title as well as winning over 300 races in classics of the likes of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in which it has triumphed twice in the last three years. Additionally, the new model exploits to the full the know-how gleaned by Ferrari engineers over the last decade through the XX programme. This makes extreme track-only cars available to gentleman test-drivers, most recently the FXX K, unveiled at the Finali Mondiali in Abu Dhabi last December.
The 488 GTB: so many facets of the Prancing Horse in a single car destined to usher in a new era.
Double celebration for the 488 GTB
Posted: 20.02.2015
Source: Ferrari
The new V8 the star of two preview evenings in Maranello
Maranello, 20 February – More than 800 clients from all over the globe enjoyed the privilege of being the first to admire the Ferrari 488 GTB at close quarters. The Prancing Horse’s latest creation will not officially be unveiled until the Geneva Motor Show but has already proven the undisputed star of two evenings at Maranello.
The guests were treated to not one but two exclusive experiences. Firstly, they were given a preview tour of the new GES building which itself will be officially inaugurated in the near future. Later, they were taken to the 8-cylinder assembly line on which the 488 GTB is to be built, for the highlight of the evening: the unveiling of the new car. This was followed by a gala dinner.
Their hosts for the evening were Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne, CEO Amedeo Felisa and Commercial and Marketing Director Enrico Galliera. Four-times World Champion Sebastian Vettel also made a dramatic entrance at the wheel of a 488 GTB.
