FERRARI 488 GTB- The best Ferrari ever built
A NEW CHAPTER IN THE HISTORY OF 8 CYLINDER
FORTY YEARS ON FROM THE UNVEILING OF FERRARI'S FIRST EVER MID-REAR-ENGINED V8 BERLINETTA, THE 308 GTB, THE PRANCING HORSE OPENS A NEW CHAPTER IN ITS 8-CYLINDER HISTORY.
The 488 GTB name marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation with the 488 in its moniker indicating the engine's unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta. The new car not only delivers unparalleled performance, it also makes that extreme power exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level even by less expert drivers.
An exceptional engine and sophisticated aerodynamics combined with refined vehicle dynamic controls radically improve the already razor-sharp responsiveness of Ferrari's road cars to near-track level.
DESIGN
EXTREME SPORTINESS AND COMFORT
INTERIOR
THE FERRARI 488 GTB’S CABIN
The 488 GTB’s cabin was designed to exude extreme sportiness without sacrificing occupant comfort. This heightens the impression of a cockpit tailored around the driver’s needs: the commands not clustered on the steering wheel are on the wraparound satellite pods which are angled directly towards the driver.
The new lighter, horizontally more compact dashboard features ultra-sporty air vents inspired by military jet air intakes.
The overall result is an effortless marriage of innovative volumes and compact, functional forms. The design references typical Ferrari traits, such as the clear separation between dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control bridge on the tunnel. All beautifully handcrafted with materials and trim that are both elegant and sporty, with a strong emphasis on creating functional spaces. The characteristic longitudinal F1 bridge has become a Prancing Horse icon and, in practical terms, frees up plenty of storage space for small items while the main function buttons are now in a more ergonomic position. Meticulous attention was lavished on the various odds and ends compartments which provide generous storage space.
The 488 GTB’s new door panels feature a more comfortable, ergonomic armrest. The design is very clean and sporty while the buttons are very easy to reach. Great thought also went into the new seats which have fixed headrests. They are even lighter and offer extremely high containment while being very comfortable. The 488 GTB boasts a new Sport infotainment system designed for ease of navigation which keeps the various functionalities immediately to hand and integrates with the overall aesthetic. For the first time in a Ferrari, the 488 GTB’s key, itself inspired by the shape of the V8’s intake plenums, features "keyless start".
EXTERIOR
THE BODY OF FERRARI 488 GTB
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the 488 GTB 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 front is characterised by the dual grille opening which channels air into the two radiators. There is also a double front spoiler which, on close inspection, looks very like those of the F1 single-seaters. At the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which channels air towards the flat underbody.
The bonnet has pronounced, raised central section and two side channels. These channels have the dual function of making the car look more sporty and channelling the air from the two vents in the bumper which have been skilfully hidden from sight in the front view to keep the lines clean. The tail is dominated by the blown spoiler and the large air vents which help improve the car’s aerodynamics. The new exhaust tailpipes have been repositioned to accommodate the greater height required for the diffuser. The overall result exudes a sense of power and performance. A new colour, Rosso Corsa Metallizzato, was developed to underscore this model’s supremely sporty character as well as its unique elegance and exclusivity.
Seen at close quarters, it has a surprising depth and glossiness achieved by using a triple-layer formulation in which millions of micro-particles are suspended in the paint.
POWER TRAIN
THIS 3902 CC POWER UNIT is the Prancing Horse’s most high performance engine ever with zero turbo lag and a unique, seductive soundtrack. IT DELIVERS 670 CV AT 8,000 RPM with a specific power output of 172 cv/l, a new record for a road-going Ferrari,MAXIMUM TORQUE OF 760 NM in seventh gear and a THROTTLE RESPONSE TIME OF JUST 0.8 SECONDS AT 2000 RPM in third gear. Consequently, the 488 GTB sprints from 0-100 KM/H IN 3 SECONDS flat and FROM 0-200 KM/H IN JUST 8.3.
These superb performance figures are the result of a focus on achieving maximum efficiency across the board. In terms of combustion, this means new SPECIALLY-SHAPED HIGH-TUMBLE INTAKE ports combined with 200-bar direct fuel injection. The new V8 also has an ion-sensing system which measures ionising currents to control ignition timing and adaptively predict misfires, as well as a multi-spark function.
Mechanical efficiency is guaranteed by an oil pump that supplies oil either at high pressure or low pressure. Cylinder heads with roller finger followers reduce the POWER ABSORBED BY THE VALVETRAIN BY 10 PER CENT AT LOW REVS THANKS TO REDUCED FRICTION. The use of flat-plane crankshaft architecture guarantees maximum compactness, lower mass and helps improve the engine’s internal fluid-dynamics.
Numerous components contribute to the powertrain’s exceptional response times. The turbos are on ball-bearing-mounted shafts to reduce friction and the compressor wheels are in TiAl, a low-density titanium-aluminium alloy, which, thanks to its lower inertia, ensures maximum spool-up speed. In addition, TWIN-SCROLL TECHNOLOGY directs the exhaust gases from each cylinder through separate scrolls and increases the efficiency of the exhaust pulses for maximum power.
AERODYNAMICS
Aerodynamic solutions derived from Maranello’s experience on the track AUGMENT DOWNFORCE WITHOUT INCREASING DRAG, resulting in an EFFICIENCY FIGURE OF 1.67, A RECORDfor a road-homologated Ferrari. Downforce is 50 per cent higher than on the previous model despite drag being reduced.
The front of the car is dominated by the CENTRAL AERO PILLAR AND AN F1-INSPIRED DOUBLE SPOILER which boost the efficiency of both the radiator and downforce generation.
The 488 GTB has an innovative aerodynamic underbody that incorporates VORTEX GENERATORS, special curved aerodynamic appendages which accelerate the air thereby reducing pressure. The result is that the car’s underbody is “sucked” down to the ground and downforce is higher but drag is not. This contributes to OVERALL DOWNFORCE GENERATION OF 325 KG AT 250 KM/H.
THE LARGE REAR DIFFUSER has curved fences which optimise the expansion of the huge amount of air channelled under the car. It also features VARIABLE FLAP geometry controlled by a CPU, integrated with other vehicle control systems, which adjusts the balance between increased downforce (flaps closed) and drag reduction (flaps open).
THE FERRARI-PATENTED BLOWN SPOILER IS A NEW SOLUTION. Air enters an intake at the base of the rear screen and exits via the bumper. This guarantees INCREASED DOWNFORCEand avoids having to extend the height of the rear spoiler and thus helps keep drag low.
THE BASE BLEED AIR INTAKES on the car’s sides are divided by a central flap. The flow over the upper part of the flap, which is also used for the engine air intake, is deflected and exits from the tail area to REDUCE THE DRAG CAUSED BY THE LOW-PRESSURE WAKE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE CAR. The flow from the lower part of the flap goes to the intercoolers to cool the intake charge.
VEHICLE DYNAMICS
TO TURN THE 488 GTB’S EXTREME POWER INTO UNADULTERATED DRIVING PLEASURE regardless of conditions, Ferrari drew on the vehicle dynamics experience it has built up in competition and through its laboratory cars on the various circuits worldwide.
Subsystem and electronic control development focused principally on maximum responsiveness to the accelerator and total control with RESPONSE TIMES (0.06 SECONDS) comparable to those of a track car.
The gearbox features specific ratios to make the most of the engine’s incredible torque. VARIABLE TORQUE MANAGEMENT DELIVERS INCREASING AMOUNTS OF TORQUE UP THROUGH THE GEARS. As a direct result of these solutions, the 488 delivers track-style gear-shifting: it takes just 6 seconds to go from standstill in first to the limiter in fourth gear.
The evolved version of Ferrari’s SIDE SLIP CONTROL SYSTEM, SSC2, is more precise yet less invasive, analysing various parameters to BOOST LONGITUDINAL ACCELERATION OUT OF CORNERS BY 12 PER CENT (in the Race and CT Off Manettino positions). Aside from just integrating with the car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, the SSC2 now also controls the active dampers, rendering the car’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter and more stable.
The 488 GTB’s excellent dynamics are due in part also to the SCM 3 MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL DAMPING SYSTEM which has a faster ECU to modify the magnetic field in the dampers, as well as three new sensors on the car body. This all translates into a feeling of greater body control with better bump absorption. THE LATEST EVOLUTION OF THE ESP GUARANTEES EVEN MORE EFFICIENT ABS INTERVENTION IN LOW-GRIP SITUATIONS.
Thanks to the new BREMBO EXTREME DESIGN BRAKING SYSTEM, the 488 GTB’s STOPPING DISTANCES ARE 9 PER CENT SHORTER than the previous model. Derived from the LaFerrari, the brakes also have new callipers that allow optimal cooling under extreme driving. They also feature new materials that ensure they reach optimal operating temperature faster and are more durable.
SPECIFICATIONS
V8 POWERTRAIN
A BRILLIANT ENCAPSULATION OF FERRARI’S DNA
ATUL SINGH
FORTY YEARS ON FROM THE UNVEILING OF FERRARI'S FIRST EVER MID-REAR-ENGINED V8 BERLINETTA, THE 308 GTB, THE PRANCING HORSE OPENS A NEW CHAPTER IN ITS 8-CYLINDER HISTORY.
The 488 GTB name marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation with the 488 in its moniker indicating the engine's unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta. The new car not only delivers unparalleled performance, it also makes that extreme power exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level even by less expert drivers.
DESIGN
EXTREME SPORTINESS AND COMFORT
INTERIOR
THE FERRARI 488 GTB’S CABIN
The 488 GTB’s cabin was designed to exude extreme sportiness without sacrificing occupant comfort. This heightens the impression of a cockpit tailored around the driver’s needs: the commands not clustered on the steering wheel are on the wraparound satellite pods which are angled directly towards the driver.
The new lighter, horizontally more compact dashboard features ultra-sporty air vents inspired by military jet air intakes.
The overall result is an effortless marriage of innovative volumes and compact, functional forms. The design references typical Ferrari traits, such as the clear separation between dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control bridge on the tunnel. All beautifully handcrafted with materials and trim that are both elegant and sporty, with a strong emphasis on creating functional spaces. The characteristic longitudinal F1 bridge has become a Prancing Horse icon and, in practical terms, frees up plenty of storage space for small items while the main function buttons are now in a more ergonomic position. Meticulous attention was lavished on the various odds and ends compartments which provide generous storage space.
The 488 GTB’s new door panels feature a more comfortable, ergonomic armrest. The design is very clean and sporty while the buttons are very easy to reach. Great thought also went into the new seats which have fixed headrests. They are even lighter and offer extremely high containment while being very comfortable. The 488 GTB boasts a new Sport infotainment system designed for ease of navigation which keeps the various functionalities immediately to hand and integrates with the overall aesthetic. For the first time in a Ferrari, the 488 GTB’s key, itself inspired by the shape of the V8’s intake plenums, features "keyless start".
EXTERIOR
THE BODY OF FERRARI 488 GTB
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the 488 GTB 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 front is characterised by the dual grille opening which channels air into the two radiators. There is also a double front spoiler which, on close inspection, looks very like those of the F1 single-seaters. At the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which channels air towards the flat underbody.
The bonnet has pronounced, raised central section and two side channels. These channels have the dual function of making the car look more sporty and channelling the air from the two vents in the bumper which have been skilfully hidden from sight in the front view to keep the lines clean. The tail is dominated by the blown spoiler and the large air vents which help improve the car’s aerodynamics. The new exhaust tailpipes have been repositioned to accommodate the greater height required for the diffuser. The overall result exudes a sense of power and performance. A new colour, Rosso Corsa Metallizzato, was developed to underscore this model’s supremely sporty character as well as its unique elegance and exclusivity.
Seen at close quarters, it has a surprising depth and glossiness achieved by using a triple-layer formulation in which millions of micro-particles are suspended in the paint.
THIS 3902 CC POWER UNIT is the Prancing Horse’s most high performance engine ever with zero turbo lag and a unique, seductive soundtrack. IT DELIVERS 670 CV AT 8,000 RPM with a specific power output of 172 cv/l, a new record for a road-going Ferrari,MAXIMUM TORQUE OF 760 NM in seventh gear and a THROTTLE RESPONSE TIME OF JUST 0.8 SECONDS AT 2000 RPM in third gear. Consequently, the 488 GTB sprints from 0-100 KM/H IN 3 SECONDS flat and FROM 0-200 KM/H IN JUST 8.3.
These superb performance figures are the result of a focus on achieving maximum efficiency across the board. In terms of combustion, this means new SPECIALLY-SHAPED HIGH-TUMBLE INTAKE ports combined with 200-bar direct fuel injection. The new V8 also has an ion-sensing system which measures ionising currents to control ignition timing and adaptively predict misfires, as well as a multi-spark function.
Mechanical efficiency is guaranteed by an oil pump that supplies oil either at high pressure or low pressure. Cylinder heads with roller finger followers reduce the POWER ABSORBED BY THE VALVETRAIN BY 10 PER CENT AT LOW REVS THANKS TO REDUCED FRICTION. The use of flat-plane crankshaft architecture guarantees maximum compactness, lower mass and helps improve the engine’s internal fluid-dynamics.
Numerous components contribute to the powertrain’s exceptional response times. The turbos are on ball-bearing-mounted shafts to reduce friction and the compressor wheels are in TiAl, a low-density titanium-aluminium alloy, which, thanks to its lower inertia, ensures maximum spool-up speed. In addition, TWIN-SCROLL TECHNOLOGY directs the exhaust gases from each cylinder through separate scrolls and increases the efficiency of the exhaust pulses for maximum power.
AERODYNAMICS
Aerodynamic solutions derived from Maranello’s experience on the track AUGMENT DOWNFORCE WITHOUT INCREASING DRAG, resulting in an EFFICIENCY FIGURE OF 1.67, A RECORDfor a road-homologated Ferrari. Downforce is 50 per cent higher than on the previous model despite drag being reduced.
The front of the car is dominated by the CENTRAL AERO PILLAR AND AN F1-INSPIRED DOUBLE SPOILER which boost the efficiency of both the radiator and downforce generation.
The 488 GTB has an innovative aerodynamic underbody that incorporates VORTEX GENERATORS, special curved aerodynamic appendages which accelerate the air thereby reducing pressure. The result is that the car’s underbody is “sucked” down to the ground and downforce is higher but drag is not. This contributes to OVERALL DOWNFORCE GENERATION OF 325 KG AT 250 KM/H.
THE LARGE REAR DIFFUSER has curved fences which optimise the expansion of the huge amount of air channelled under the car. It also features VARIABLE FLAP geometry controlled by a CPU, integrated with other vehicle control systems, which adjusts the balance between increased downforce (flaps closed) and drag reduction (flaps open).
THE FERRARI-PATENTED BLOWN SPOILER IS A NEW SOLUTION. Air enters an intake at the base of the rear screen and exits via the bumper. This guarantees INCREASED DOWNFORCEand avoids having to extend the height of the rear spoiler and thus helps keep drag low.
THE BASE BLEED AIR INTAKES on the car’s sides are divided by a central flap. The flow over the upper part of the flap, which is also used for the engine air intake, is deflected and exits from the tail area to REDUCE THE DRAG CAUSED BY THE LOW-PRESSURE WAKE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE CAR. The flow from the lower part of the flap goes to the intercoolers to cool the intake charge.
VEHICLE DYNAMICS
Subsystem and electronic control development focused principally on maximum responsiveness to the accelerator and total control with RESPONSE TIMES (0.06 SECONDS) comparable to those of a track car.
The gearbox features specific ratios to make the most of the engine’s incredible torque. VARIABLE TORQUE MANAGEMENT DELIVERS INCREASING AMOUNTS OF TORQUE UP THROUGH THE GEARS. As a direct result of these solutions, the 488 delivers track-style gear-shifting: it takes just 6 seconds to go from standstill in first to the limiter in fourth gear.
The evolved version of Ferrari’s SIDE SLIP CONTROL SYSTEM, SSC2, is more precise yet less invasive, analysing various parameters to BOOST LONGITUDINAL ACCELERATION OUT OF CORNERS BY 12 PER CENT (in the Race and CT Off Manettino positions). Aside from just integrating with the car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, the SSC2 now also controls the active dampers, rendering the car’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter and more stable.
The 488 GTB’s excellent dynamics are due in part also to the SCM 3 MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL DAMPING SYSTEM which has a faster ECU to modify the magnetic field in the dampers, as well as three new sensors on the car body. This all translates into a feeling of greater body control with better bump absorption. THE LATEST EVOLUTION OF THE ESP GUARANTEES EVEN MORE EFFICIENT ABS INTERVENTION IN LOW-GRIP SITUATIONS.
Thanks to the new BREMBO EXTREME DESIGN BRAKING SYSTEM, the 488 GTB’s STOPPING DISTANCES ARE 9 PER CENT SHORTER than the previous model. Derived from the LaFerrari, the brakes also have new callipers that allow optimal cooling under extreme driving. They also feature new materials that ensure they reach optimal operating temperature faster and are more durable.
SPECIFICATIONS
V8 POWERTRAIN
A BRILLIANT ENCAPSULATION OF FERRARI’S DNA
ATUL SINGH
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