It’s hard to believe the Ferrari 458 is already a thing of the past and in its place is the all-new Ferrari 488 GTB. The brand’s iconic first-ever mid-rear V8 308 GTB berlinetta was launched 40 years ago and now the 488 GTB opens a new dimension in the history of cars with its particular layout.
The major difference is 488 GTB’s engine and configuration. Powered by a mid-mounted turbo-charged V8, some fans may be disappointed to hear that the engine is no longer naturally aspirated, but soon all future V8’s will be turbocharge and natural engine displacement will drop. Besides, last year Ferrari did a great job with the California T and proved that turbo charging has come a long way from the days of the F40.
The new Ferrari 488 has a 3.9-liter block that produces 660hp, meaning its some 55hp up on its predecessor. The power is delivered by a state-of-the-art, seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and after we heard it start at the Geneva Motor Show, you can rest assured that the luxury car is still a typical Ferrari V8 screamer that redlines at 8,000rpm. It can also hit 200kph (around 124mph) in just 8.4 seconds.
Electronically, the 488 GTB is just as super advanced as you would expect, featuring Ferrari’s Slide Slip Control set-up which allows you to have fun but still be kept in check. The car also gives 50 percent more down-force, meaning that the lap times set by the Ferrari 458 are soon to be obliterated.
In terms of appearance, the 458 was by no means an ugly car—in fact it was beautiful—but the new model is even better. There simply isn’t a bad angle. Inside, Ferrari has again raised the bar by creating a cockpit of purposeful luxury that will no doubt be filled with drama and passion at every press of the pedal.
