Ferrari has opened a fresh chapter in the history of supercars with its new 488 GTB architecture.
Introduced at the new Scuderia South Africa premises in Johannesburg this week, the new 488 GTB sculptural forms 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. Certain design elements are also obvious nods to the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired styling of the flanks.
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.
The extreme power 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 new Ferrari 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.
Its 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 new Ferrari 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.
Scuderia South Africa CEO, Mervyn Eagles said: “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.”
