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2015 Ferrari 488 GTB

2015 Ferrari 488 GTB

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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In Detail

type Series Production Car
released at 2015 Geneva Motor Show
built at Maranello, Italy
engine V8
position Mid Longitudinal
aspiration Turbocharged
block material Aluminum
valvetrain DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed Direct Gasoline Injection
displacement 3902 cc / 238.11 in³
power 492 kw / 659.8 bhp @ 8000 rpm
specific output 169.09 bhp per litre
torque 760 nm / 560.5 ft lbs @ 3000 rpm
body / frame Aluminum Body over Aluminum Chassis
driven wheels RWD w/E-Diff3
wheel type 5-Spoke Forged
front tires 235/35ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2
rear tires 295/35ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2
front brakes Ventilated & Drilled Carbon-Ceramic Discs w/ABS
rear brakes Discs w/ABS
front wheels F 50.8 x 21.6 cm / 20 x 8.5 in
rear wheels R 50.8 x 26.7 cm / 20 x 10.5 in
steering Rack & Pinion w/Variable Assist
f suspension Double Wishbones, Coil Springs, Delphi Magnetorheological Dampers, Anti-Roll Bar
r suspension Double Wishbones, Coil Springs, Delphi Magnetorheological Dampers, Anti-Roll Bar
dry weight 1370 kg / 3021 lbs
weight distro 46.5 % / 54 %
wheelbase 2650 mm / 104.3 in
length 4568 mm / 179.8 in
width 1952 mm / 76.9 in
height 1213 mm / 47.8 in
transmission Getrag 7-Speed Sequential
tran clutch Dual-clutch
top speed ~330 kph / 204.93 mph
0 – 100 kph ~3.0 seconds
0 – 200 kph ~8.3 seconds
emission 260 g/km

Story by Ferrari S.p.A.