The Ferrari 488 GTB replaced the outgoing Ferrari 458 with a sports car that is easier to drive, offers more power and improved aerodynamics, plus a sexier outward profile. It may seem hard to believe as the Ferrari 458 was a favourite among the Maranello faithful. But such is the fate of all great sports cars, eventually even the fastest get passed by something faster. And you thought staying on top in Hollywood was tough.
Power comes in the form of a 3.9-litre V8 turbocharged engine. It delivers a heart-throbbing 661 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 561 lb.-ft. of torque starting at 2,000 rpm. Matched to a 7-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox featuring Variable Boost Management, it breaks from 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 330 km/h. A deep Ferrari soundtrack is ensured with the use of a specially tuned exhaust system.
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
2016 Ferrari 488 GTB
The name 488 GTB is derived in several ways. The “488” is based on the cubic capacity of the cylinders and the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) is a celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the 1975 308 GTB. It too featured a mid-engine V8 and at the time highlighted 252 horsepower in European trim.
Aerodynamics plays a key role in performance with every Ferrari, but nowhere is this more obvious than in the 488 GTB. It features a blown rear spoiler, vortex generators and active aerodynamics. Ferrari claims these changes result in a new efficiency record for the company, while downforce increases to 325 kg at 250 km/h.
Enhancements continue with the use of version 2 of the Side Slip Control System (SSC2). It not only integrates F1-Trac and E-Diff, it also controls the active dampers. Ferrari claims this significantly improves overall stability and allows for flatter control of the car in high-speed maneuvers. The goal here is to make the Ferrari 488 GTB and its supercar performance capabilities available to a wide range of drivers. The mark of any great sports car is always how easy it is to drive fast for those of lesser talent.
Two colours are featured currently; Rosso Corsa Metallic with black and red interior trim and Grigio Ferro Metallic with black and beige Tradizione leather interior. Availability requires plenty of patients with time well spent on a waiting list and deep pockets.
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