Ferrari 488 GTB: Extreme power for unique driving pleasure

The innovative 8-cylinder berlinetta debuts in South Africa: new design, new engine and a plethora of patented solutions On its official debut at a private preview held at the new Scuderia South Africa premises, the 488 GTB sets a new benchmark for the sports car sector. Forty years on from the launch of Ferrari’s iconic first-ever mid-rear-engined V8 berlinetta, the 308, the 488 GTB opens a new chapter in the history of cars with this particular architecture.

Credit for this achievement must go to the 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 command response times of just 0.8 and 0.06 seconds respectively. Significantly, however, sophisticated dynamic vehicle controls make this massive power 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 too 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.

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.

Scuderia South Africa CEO, Mervyn Eagles adds; “As the official dealer of Ferrari in South Africa, it is a privilege to be able to showcase this revolutionary model across all three of our dealers during this exclusive private previewing as we are reaffirm our commitment to the Ferrari brand on the African continent. The 488 GTB exhibits the finest of turbocharged technology since the renowned Ferrari F40 in 1987 and is truly the epitome of superior innovation and design excellence.”

Designed by the Ferrari Style Centre, the 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 are also obvious nods to the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired styling of the flanks.

The extreme power required by the car is delivered by the new 3902 cm3 turbo engine which is coupled with a seven-gear F1 dual-clutch gearbox featuring Variable Boost Management which optimally distributes torque (a maximum 750 Nm in seventh gear). The 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 488 GTB’s revolutionary aerodynamics incorporates 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 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 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 astonishingly engaging driving experience.

The 488 GTB makes its debut in a new Rosso Corsa Met livery with black and red technical fabric cabin trim, and in a Grigio Ferro Met livery with black and Beige Tradizione leather interior trim.

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