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Explore Ferrari 488 price, features, specifications, variants, colours, pros & cons, key highlights, images, user reviews, and FAQs at AutoX. 

Ferrari

Ferrari 488

Not as pretty as the 458 Italia

By the time I was in the position to buy a Ferrari, unfortunately, the 458 had been discontinued. Its replacement, the 488 GTB, might be more technologically advanced, however, it is just not as pretty as the other car.

RightHandDriving

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Ferrari has a unique way of keeping its glorious racing history alive, and it has done so once again with the F76 – a digital-only car that’s not meant for production. The visionary concept celebrates Ferrari’s first endurance race victory in 1949. It is designed exclusively for the virtual realm as a non-fungible token (NFT). What’s special?&nbsp;The concept is more than a design study or an experimental digital piece. <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/ferrari/">Ferrari</a> says that ‘the F76 is one of the digital assets of the initiative created by the Maranello-based company to support the 499P competing at Le Mans and in the World Endurance Championship.’ The F76 is available only to&nbsp;members of Ferrari’s Hyperclub (a private group of elite collectors and clients). Here’s all you need to know about Ferrari’s first-ever digital creation.<img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/10/Ferrari-F76-Rear-1761540509493.webp" alt="Ferrari F76 Rear.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Ferrari F76: Key DetailsThe F76, created by the Italian marque’s Styling Centre headed by Flavio Manzoni, is touted as a ‘design manifesto’. The double fuselage design optimises airflow, while the separation of driver and passenger cells aligns the wheelbase with the cabins, forming a central channel that turns the body into a wing.<img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/10/Ferrari-F76-(1)-1761540535644.webp" alt="Ferrari F76 (1).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">The sculpted wings, a rear dual-tail diffuser, and advanced underbody aerodynamics work harmoniously to maximise ground effect. Meanwhile, the vertical flanks subtly reference the famous F80.
 
 Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferraris-first-ev-is-the-elettrica-1000bhp-quad-motor-0-100-in-25s-530km-range-121922/">Ferrari’s First EV is the Elettrica: 1,000+bhp Quad-motor, 0-100 in 2.5s, 530km+ Range</a>The central fuselages feature a three-dimensional livery with lateral louvres, while the rear dual tails integrate cooling functions through topology-optimised structures. At the front, there is a floating splitter, retractable headlights (which nod to Ferrari’s past).<img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/10/Ferrari-F76--1761540554293.webp" alt="Ferrari F76 .jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Inside, the F76 stands out with its dual cockpit layout and front-hinged, liftable canopies. The two separate cockpits give both occupants full control via drive-by-wire technology, with individual steering wheels and pedals.It is to be noted that the digital-only concept also offers exclusive personalisation.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferrari-debuts-new-e-vortex-test-track-for-electric-cars-121928/">Ferrari Debuts New e-Vortex Test Track for Electric Cars</a>As for the powertrain, the choice is entirely in the hands of the F76’s owner.&nbsp;The collectors can equip their concept with anything from Ferrari’s range of powertrains offered across the models.

Ferrari F76 Unveiled as Maranello’s First-Ever Digital Hypercar

The F76 is available only to members of Ferrari’s Hyperclub (a private group of elite collectors and clients). It is designed exclusively for the virtual realm as a non-fungible token (NFT).

<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/ferrari/">Ferrari</a> has opened its new e-Vortex test track beside the famous Fiorano Circuit in Maranello, Italy. Built in less than four months, this 1,887-metre track covers over 37,000 square metres and is dedicated to testing Ferrari’s future vehicles, with a focus on electric and hybrid models. By moving key prototype tests to this private facility, Ferrari plans to speed up development and better protect its new cars from leaks. This track plays a big role in preparing for Ferrari’s first all-electric model, scheduled for release in 2026, marking a clear step in its move towards electric mobility.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferraris-first-ev-is-the-elettrica-1000bhp-quad-motor-0-100-in-25s-530km-range-121922/">Ferrari’s First EV is the Elettrica: 1,000+bhp Quad-motor, 0-100 in 2.5s, 530km+ Range</a>The e-Vortex track offers a mix of features like a 600-metre straight, banked corners, and a variety of bends to simulate real driving conditions. This setup allows engineers to test acceleration, braking, and handling in a controlled environment where results are consistent. Testing here covers everything from performance to battery systems and energy recovery, helping Ferrari collect accurate and reliable data faster than before. Engineers get the space to fine-tune prototypes, making sure the cars meet the brand’s high standards.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/10/Ferrari-New-e-Vortex-Test-Track-(1)-1760207653727.webp" alt="Ferrari New e-Vortex Test Track (1).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">One of the main reasons Ferrari built the e-Vortex is to shift testing away from public roads. This change reduces the chance of spy photos and helps keep new models under wraps. It also eases traffic in Maranello. The private track gives Ferrari’s team the freedom to work without interruptions and collect clean data, which helps speed up problem-solving during development.Along with the track, Ferrari has set up a 1,000-square-metre workshop on site for mechanical inspections and tweaks. This means engineers can make adjustments and immediately send cars back out for more testing without losing time. Having everything under one roof boosts efficiency and helps keep the development process moving smoothly.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferrari-849-testarossa-revealed-as-hybrid-v8-with-f80-dna-does-0-100kmh-in-23-seconds-121721/">Ferrari 849 Testarossa Revealed as Hybrid V8 with F80 DNA; Does 0-100km/h in 2.3 seconds</a>As Ferrari gets closer to launching its first fully electric car, expected in 2026, the e-Vortex will be key to making sure the final product lives up to expectations. Prototypes have been seen testing on public roads, but the bulk of hard work will happen here from now on. The new track shows how Ferrari is blending its racing roots with future electric technology, setting the stage for the next era of the brand.

Ferrari Debuts New e-Vortex Test Track for Electric Cars

Ferrari opens the new e-Vortex test track in Maranello ahead of its first electric car debut, giving engineers a private space to fine-tune upcoming electric models.

Ferrari has revealed technical specifications of its first-ever&nbsp;electric car, currently codenamed the Elettrica. The aesthetic design is under wraps for now, but the revealed architecture hints at the upcoming EV's dynamic and comfort-focused design philosophy. The engineering blueprint highlights features that are imperative to the performance of Ferrari's&nbsp;electric model.&nbsp;Key elements include short overhangs,&nbsp;a driver’s&nbsp;seat positioned closer to the front axle (Similar to Ferrari’s&nbsp;classic mid-engine sports cars), and a 122kWh battery pack integrated&nbsp;completely into the floorpan.&nbsp;The battery modules are distributed between&nbsp;the front and rear axles, with 85% positioned as low as possible&nbsp;to significantly lower the center of gravity.&nbsp;The result? A center of gravity&nbsp;that’s 80mm lower than a typical ICE&nbsp;Ferrari.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/ferrari/">Ferrari </a>has equipped the Elettrica with a separate rear subframe, a first for the brand. It is designed to reduce noise and vibration while&nbsp;preserving the stiffness and dynamic sharpness. <h2>Ferrari&nbsp;Elettrica: Powertrain</h2>The Ferrari Elettrica boasts an in-house electric powertrain. It uses four electric motors, two on the front axle and two on the rear.&nbsp;These advanced motors are based on Formula 1 technology&nbsp;and deliver incredible performance and control.&nbsp;The Elettrica can produce over 1,000bhp in boost mode,&nbsp;launch from 0 to 100km/h in just 2.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 310km/h.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferrari-849-testarossa-revealed-as-hybrid-v8-with-f80-dna-does-0-100kmh-in-23-seconds-121721/">Ferrari 849 Testarossa Revealed as Hybrid V8 with F80 DNA; Does 0-100km/h in 2.3 seconds</a>Each motor in the Elettrica operates independently, enabling highly precise torque vectoring that delivers exceptional grip and agility, particularly during high-speed cornering. In Performance Launch mode,&nbsp;the rear axle alone can send up to 8,000Nm of torque to the wheels.&nbsp;Ferrari has added an advanced Torque Shift Engagement system&nbsp;that lets the driver toggle between five power delivery&nbsp;modes using the right-hand paddle shifter.<h2>Ferrari&nbsp;Elettrica: Chassis and Other Details</h2>The Ferrari Elettrica is built on a bespoke chassis engineered around an 800-volt system, housing a 122kWh battery pack. This setup delivers a class-leading power density of nearly 195 Wh/kg, apart from lowering the car’s center of gravity.&nbsp;Ferrari has used 75% recycled aluminum in the chassis and body,&nbsp;reducing CO₂ emissions by 6.7 tons per vehicle.The Elettrica also features the 48-volt active suspension (first seen on the Purosangue). This unit replaces traditional anti-roll bars with electric actuators for real-time damping adjustments.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/reviews/car-reviews/ferrari-12cilindri-spider-first-drive-review-versatility-in-verde-120143/">Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider First Drive Review: Versatility in Verde</a>Ferrari has engineered a distinctive audio experience for its electric car to keep the thrill of driving alive.&nbsp;The Elettrica uses a rear-axle sensor to capture&nbsp;and amplify the authentic vibrations and tones produced by the electric motor&nbsp;rather than relying on synthesized audio.&nbsp;The system delivers a unique, natural, and exciting soundtrack to the cabin.<h2>Ferrari&nbsp;Elettrica: Will It Come to India?</h2>The Elettrica's design as a four-seat coupe in the high-end electric luxury segment makes it a perfect fit&nbsp;for the Indian market, where Ferrari already successfully offers models&nbsp;like the Roma and Purosangue. Though the official launch timeline&nbsp;for India is unconfirmed, we anticipate the car will arrive soon&nbsp;after its global rollout begins in late 2026.

Ferrari’s First EV is the Elettrica: 1,000+bhp Quad-motor, 0-100 in 2.5s, 530km+ Range

The upcoming Ferrari Elettrica will offer over 530 kilometres of range (WLTP). It will have four in-house-engineered synchronous permanent magnet motors (two per axle) and a power output of over 1,000bhp in boost mode.

Max Verstappen enjoyed a winning start to his GT3 racing career by taking victory at the Nurburgring Nordschleife in the ninth round of the Nurburgring Endurance Series. Driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 for Emil Frey Racing, the reigning Formula 1 world champion teamed up with British driver Chris Lulham for what was his first competitive outing outside F1 in 2025. Starting from third on the grid, Verstappen launched straight into the lead at the first corner and quickly established control of the four-hour race. Over his near two-hour opening stint, he consistently extended the gap to more than a minute before handing the car to Lulham. The young Briton then managed the remaining laps carefully, bringing the Ferrari home with over 20 seconds in hand over the Ford Mustang GT3 crew and completing a memorable debut for the Dutchman.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/ayrton-sennas-former-1985-mercedes-benz-190e-to-be-auctioned-121838/">Ayrton Senna’s Former 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190E to Be Auctioned</a>With more than 100 cars spread across the circuit, Verstappen’s switch from single-seaters to endurance racing was a test of adaptability. The Nordschleife, known as “the Green Hell,” is among the most demanding tracks in motorsport, with changing conditions and more than 150 corners across its 25km. Verstappen had put in the groundwork ahead of the event, securing the mandatory permit and carrying out private testing earlier in the year to prepare. His performance in live race conditions confirmed that his talents are not confined to Formula 1 machinery and that he could transfer his strengths effectively into a completely different racing environment.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/09/Max-Verstappen-in-His-Ferrari-296-GT3-car-at-Nurburgring-Nordschleife-(1)-1759051505841.webp" alt="Max Verstappen in His Ferrari 296 GT3 car at Nurburgring Nordschleife (1).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Qualifying had been tough, with mist and damp patches reducing grip and adding unpredictability. Even so, Verstappen set the third-fastest time in traffic and lined up well for the start. Once the race got underway, he didn’t hesitate in seizing his chance, moving past his rivals into the lead at turn one. From there, his race pace remained steady and consistent, allowing Emil Frey Racing to race on the front foot. When Lulham took over, the team already had a sizeable cushion, and he managed the pace smartly to protect the lead until the chequered flag fell.The programme was run in collaboration with Verstappen.com Racing and Red Bull, with Lulham part of Verstappen’s own driver development scheme. Between them, they highlighted how teamwork, strategy and consistency are as vital in endurance events as pure pace. That combination allowed the Emil Frey Ferrari to withstand pressure from competitors in one of the busiest and most competitive series in Europe.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/motogp-jorge-martin-suffers-another-major-injury-of-2025-season-at-japanese-gp-sprint-race-121861/">MotoGP: Jorge Martin Suffers Another Major Injury of 2025 Season at Japanese GP Sprint Race</a>For Verstappen, the achievement represented more than a single victory. It underlined his desire to broaden his motorsport career and hinted at future appearances in long-distance events such as the 24 Hours of Nurburgring. While still focused primarily on his Formula 1 commitments, he has made no secret of his interest in pursuing other forms of racing.

Max Verstappen Conquers Nurburgring Nordschleife with Stunning GT3 Debut Victory

Max Verstappen wins his GT3 debut at Nurburgring, driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 with Chris Lulham for Emil Frey Racing, marking a milestone beyond Formula 1.

Ferrari has taken the wraps off its new flagship, the 849 Testarossa – the most powerful road car the brand has ever built. It replaces the SF90 Stradale and introduces an all-new plug-in hybrid setup that combines a twin-turbo V8 with three electric motors for a combined output of 1036bhp. The coupe will be priced at €460,000, while the open-top Spider comes in at €500,000, with European deliveries starting next spring and U.S. sales shortly after. The Testarossa name links Ferrari’s past and future, honouring the 1956 500 TR and the 1984 model while marking a new step in hybrid supercars.<h2>Ferrari 849 Testarossa: Design </h2>The styling marks a significant step forward from the SF90. A full-width graphic highlights the nose, while deep sculpted air channels along the doors feed larger intercoolers. These elements both serve function and give the car stronger visual character.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/09/Ferrari-849-Testarossa-Rear-(1)-1757488751219.webp" alt="Ferrari 849 Testarossa Rear (1).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">At the rear, Ferrari has introduced a distinctive twin-tail design inspired by its 1970s sports prototypes. Paired with static spoilers, revised diffusers, and adaptive aerodynamic systems, it boosts downforce and stability at high speeds.<h2>Ferrari 849 Testarossa: Interior</h2>Inside, Ferrari has gone for a minimalist two-seat cockpit. Drivers get lightweight sport seats and a modern digital interface, while the passenger side features its own display for added engagement. The layout is designed to balance cutting-edge technology with day-to-day usability.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/09/Ferrari-849-Testarossa-Interior-1757488748152.webp" alt="Ferrari 849 Testarossa Interior.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">The Spider keeps the same cabin but adds a retractable roof that takes 14 seconds to open or close, even at speeds up to 45km/h.<h2>Ferrari 849 Testarossa: Engine and Performance</h2>The Ferrari 849 Testarossa is powered by a plug-in hybrid system that combines a revised 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with three electric motors. The V8 produces 819bhp, while the electric motors add 217bhp, giving a total output of 1036bhp. Two of the motors are fitted to the front axle for all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. The third motor sits at the rear and applies Formula 1 technology for energy recovery and power management.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/09/Ferrari-849-Testarossa-REAR-1757488877947.webp" alt="Ferrari 849 Testarossa REAR.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Where the 849 Testarossa truly shines is performance. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 2.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 330 km/h. New control software underpins the 849 Testarossa, including revised gear-shift strategies and advanced vehicle dynamics systems. These updates aim to make the car equally capable on track and on the road, with sharper responses but improved drivability. Around Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, it clocked a lap time of 1:17.5 – quicker than the SF90 and edging close to times set by Ferrari’s special-series cars.

Ferrari 849 Testarossa Revealed as Hybrid V8 with F80 DNA; Does 0-100km/h in 2.3 seconds

Ferrari 849 Testarossa uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with three electric motors to produce 1,036bhp. It replaces the SF90 Stradale.

Speeding in a supercar is all fun and games until you miss a speed bump or a subtle road hazard, causing your front splitter to take the hit and your wallet to cover the cost of underbody repairs. With most supercars, avoiding such damage is entirely&nbsp;up to the driver. But if your car wears a Ferrari badge,&nbsp;the Italian marque might have your back. According to&nbsp;a newly filed patent in the U.S., Ferrari appears to be working&nbsp;on an automatic braking system to prevent&nbsp;low-slung supercars from scraping against steep driveways,&nbsp;potholes, and other road debris. While Ferrari hasn’t officially confirmed the development or production plans&nbsp;for this tech yet, the idea could be a blessing for preserving&nbsp;those costly carbon-fibre splitters. Here’s a closer look at how this&nbsp;patented system could work and what it means for future Ferraris.<h2>Here's How Ferrari's New Tech Will Work</h2><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/08/Ferrari-Patent-1756276904247.webp" alt="Ferrari Patent.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
 Ferrari’s new patent, based on what the filing describes, follows a unique&nbsp;approach from standard automatic braking systems. While conventional systems focus on avoiding a full-on collision,&nbsp;Ferrari's new tech uses sensors to detect&nbsp;the height of an object relative to the car's own ride height.&nbsp;This allows it to identify low-lying&nbsp;obstacles that could cause costly scrapes&nbsp;but might not be a major collision risk.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/new-ferrari-amalfi-coupe-packs-631-bhp-v8-replaces-roma-121127/">New Ferrari Amalfi Coupe Packs 631 bhp V8, Replaces Roma</a>When the system detects a possible obstacle, it first gives the driver an audible warning. This alert allows&nbsp;the driver to slow down or steer away if needed. But if the driver&nbsp;doesn’t respond and the car keeps moving toward the hazard,&nbsp;the system will step in. It will automatically&nbsp;apply the brakes to reduce speed and avoid damage&nbsp;to the front splitter or other parts of the car. What's worth noting is that the system doesn’t&nbsp;use the car’s built-in speed data. It calculates speed in real time by tracking how&nbsp;the distance between two points changes.<h2>How the New Auto-Braking Feature Could Benefit Future Ferrari Models?</h2>Ferrari's new tech hints at how the brand is focusing more on real-world usability of its expensive supercars. Needless to say, the most common problem of a supercar owner (especially in India) is scraping the front end on speed bumps or steep driveways, which could lead to costly repairs.&nbsp;However, the Italian car manufacturer's new system aims&nbsp;to solve that problem. By helping avoid common road hazards, it could make daily driving far less stressful.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferrari-f80-hypercar-unveiled-with-1184-bhp-twin-turbo-v6-hybrid-and-350-kmh-top-speed-118700/">Ferrari F80 Hypercar Unveiled with 1,184bhp twin-turbo V6 Hybrid and 350 km/h Top Speed</a>Many high-performance cars, including some from competitors like Porsche and Lamborghini, use hydraulic or electric axle-lift systems&nbsp;to raise the front of the car over obstacles. Ferrari's patent&nbsp;offers an alternative, sensor-based, and potentially lighter solution.&nbsp;It could be a way for Ferrari to save weight, which is&nbsp;imperative for performance, while still providing the same practical benefit.

Ferrari’s Smart Splitter Tech Could Prevent Costly Supercar Damage; Here's How

As of now, Ferrari hasn't confirmed if the patent-filed tech will go into production, but if it does, then it could be a game-changer in preventing expensive front splitter damage on low-slung supercars.

Ferrari has put all doubts to rest by extending Fred Vasseur’s stay as team principal with a new multi-year deal. Since taking over from Mattia Binotto in 2023, Vasseur has brought noticeable changes to the team's operations. His efforts helped Ferrari finish second in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship, though the 2025 season has seen the team struggle to catch up with a strong McLaren.In recent months, speculation around Vasseur’s future had picked up, especially in the Italian media. Some even suggested Red Bull’s Christian Horner as a possible replacement. But with this new contract, Ferrari has clearly backed Vasseur’s vision and leadership, ending the rumours and showing confidence in the direction he’s taking the team.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-2026-driver-market-cadillac-enters-bottas-in-play-verstappen-speculation-explodes-121248/">F1 2026 Driver Market: Cadillac Enters, Bottas in Play, Verstappen Speculation Explodes</a>Benedetto Vigna, CEO Ferrari, said: 'Today we want to recognize what has been built and commit to what still needs to be achieved. It reflects our trust in Fred’s leadership — a trust rooted in shared ambition, mutual expectations and clear responsibility. We move forward with determination and focus, united in our pursuit of the level of performance Ferrari has to aim for.'
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2023/12/F1-Ferrari-Frederic-Vasseur.jpg" alt="F1 Ferrari Frederic Vasseur" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Fred Vasseur, Team Principal Scuderia Ferrari, said: 'I’m grateful for the trust Ferrari continues to place in me. This renewal is not just a confirmation — it’s a challenge to keep progressing, to stay focused, and to deliver. Over the past 30 months, we’ve laid strong foundations, and now we must build on them with consistency and determination. We know what’s expected, and we’re all fully committed to meeting those expectations and taking the next step forward together.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-audi-formula-1-team-signs-revolut-as-2026-title-sponsor-121385/">F1: Audi Formula 1 Team Signs Revolut as 2026 Title Sponsor</a>This extension couldn’t have come at a more important time. Big rule changes are on the horizon in Formula 1, and Vasseur will be leading the team through them with a powerful driver duo—Charles Leclerc and new signing Lewis Hamilton. By keeping Vasseur at the helm, Ferrari is hoping stability at the top will help them push for titles again.

F1: Ferrari Extends Fred Vasseur’s Role with Multi-Year Deal Ahead of 2026 Rules

Ferrari extends Fred Vasseur’s contract, backing his leadership ahead of 2026 F1 rule changes, with Leclerc and Hamilton set to lead the team’s title push.

Formula 1 lost more than a driver on 17 July 2015, it lost a young man whose quiet determination and raw talent had captured the sport’s imagination. Jules Bianchi, a Ferrari-backed driver racing for Marussia, succumbed to injuries sustained during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. It was the sport’s first fatal racing incident in over two decades. To those who knew him, Bianchi wasn’t just a future Ferrari contender, he was a respected figure in the paddock, known for his humility and calm presence.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-2026-driver-market-cadillac-enters-bottas-in-play-verstappen-speculation-explodes-121248/">F1 2026 Driver Market: Cadillac Enters, Bottas in Play, Verstappen Speculation Explodes</a>His breakthrough came at the 2014 Monaco Grand Prix. In a car few expected to finish in the points, Bianchi crossed the line in ninth place, earning Marussia its first-ever points in Formula 1. It was a remarkable drive on the very streets near his hometown of Nice, and it offered a glimpse of the greatness many believed was ahead. But just months later, on a rain-soaked day in Suzuka, that journey was tragically cut short. Bianchi’s car went off track and collided with a recovery vehicle. He never regained consciousness.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/07/Jules-Bianchi-(2)-1752758126405.webp" alt="Jules Bianchi (2).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Ten years later, Jules Bianchi’s name still echoes around the paddock. His godson, Charles Leclerc, now leading Ferrari’s charge, often honours his memory both on and off the track. Though his time in the sport was brief, Jules Bianchi’s impact remains permanent, in every safer race, every rising talent, and every memory that keeps his story alive. In honour of the mark he left on the sport, Formula 1 officially retired his racing number ‘17’, ensuring it will never be used again.<h2>F1: Jules Bianchi and Ferrari</h2>Bianchi’s climb to Formula 1 had been no less impressive than his time in it. He stood out in junior categories, with championship wins and consistent podiums. His potential caught Ferrari’s attention early on, leading to his inclusion in the newly formed Ferrari Driver Academy. There, he not only tested F1 machinery but also became an integral part of Ferrari’s long-term plans. His back-to-back third-place finishes in the 2011 and 2012 GP2 seasons confirmed his readiness for the top tier.
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/07/Jules-Bianchi-(4)-1752758217319.webp" alt="Jules Bianchi (4).jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">2012 was a pivotal year, as Bianchi secured a reserve driver role with Force India. When Marussia needed a quick replacement for Luiz Razia before the 2013 season, Bianchi was the natural choice. Despite minimal preparation, he adapted instantly. He often outperformed teammate Max Chilton, with a standout 13th-place finish in Malaysia highlighting his ability to deliver results despite limited machinery.<h2>Jules Bianchi's Impact on F1</h2>Though his F1 record may seem modest at a glance, Bianchi’s impact on the sport was profound. His tragic accident catalysed major safety reforms. 
 
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/07/F1-halo-1752758323860.webp" alt="F1 halo.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">Most notably, it accelerated the development and introduction of the halo, now a standard protective feature that has since saved multiple drivers. Bianchi’s loss forced the sport to re-examine its protocols, leading to a safer environment for future generations.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/nissans-oliver-rowland-wins-2025-formula-e-title-mahindra-secures-another-podium-finish-121220/">Nissan's Oliver Rowland Wins 2025 Formula E Title; Mahindra Secures Another Podium Finish</a>Ten years after his final race, Jules Bianchi Impact still lives on. His legacy lives on in every driver protected by the halo and in the memories of fans who saw in him a glimpse of Ferrari’s future. Jules may be gone, but his name still resonates across the F1 paddock.

F1: Ten Years Later, How Jules Bianchi Changed the Sport Forever

Even a decade after his passing, Jules Bianchi’s legacy lives on in F1, reflected in safety reforms, tributes across the paddock, and in Charles Leclerc’s career.

Ferrari pulled the covers off its new Amalfi coupe, introducing it as the successor to the Roma. The Amalfi steps in as the brand’s refreshed entry-level grand tourer, offering updated design and performance enhancements over its predecessor. The Ferrari model uses a revised 3.85-litre twin-turbo V8 from the F154 series, now producing 631bhp at 7,500rpm with a 7,600rpm redline. Engine weight has been trimmed using lighter camshafts and a redesigned block, while low-viscosity oil is used for better cold-start performance. A flat-plane crankshaft, twin-scroll system, and low-inertia turbines contribute to sharper throttle response. The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission has been reworked for quicker and smoother shifts.&nbsp;The Amalfi can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 3.1 seconds and is capable of reaching speeds beyond 320km/h. Additional refinements include a dry-sump gearbox, low-friction parts, and adaptive torque control. A new exhaust setup preserves Ferrari’s signature sound while meeting tighter noise standards.<h2>New Ferrari Amalfi: Design Cues</h2>The Ferrari Amalfi is a new 2+ coupe with a front-mid-mounted V8, replacing the Roma while continuing Ferrari’s design evolution. Created by the Ferrari Styling Centre under Flavio Manzoni, its design builds on the Roma’s proportions but features a more defined and modern shape, staying true to the brand’s 2+ GT heritage.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/ferrari-12cilindri-with-819bhp-naturally-aspirated-v12-arrives-in-mumbai-121043/">Ferrari 12Cilindri with 819BHP Naturally Aspirated V12 Arrives in Mumbai</a> The exterior has a streamlined form with minimal lines and sharp geometry, giving it a bold yet refined look. A wedge-shaped profile and integrated lighting elements contribute to its contemporary feel. The front does away with a traditional grille, instead using a body-coloured wing and recessed detailing to house sensors and headlights.
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 At the rear, a clean tail design, hidden taillamps, and a functional diffuser reflect both performance and heritage. The debut colour, Verde Costiera, highlights the car’s sculpted design. The car rolls on 20-inch wheels and is equipped with tyres developed in collaboration with two technical partners: Bridgestone Potenza Sport and Pirelli P ZERO. <h2>New Ferrari Amalfi: Interior Layout and Features</h2>The Ferrari Amalfi’s cabin features a dual-cockpit layout, with the dashboard, central tunnel, and door panels visually linking the driver and passenger areas. The interior is minimalist, with premium materials and integrated tech, including a 10.25-inch central touchscreen and a single-block dashboard combining the 15.6-inch instrument cluster and air vents.&nbsp;There is also an 8.8-inch passenger display, showing parameters such as G-forces and engine revs.
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 The suspended central tunnel, made from anodised aluminium, houses the gear selector, key slot, wireless charging pad, and other controls. Door grips are built into sculpted panels, and the woofers sit behind perforated aluminium for a sleek, technical look.The tech-focused cabin sports an all-new Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and features designed to improve comfort and usability. The updated steering wheel reintroduces physical buttons for more tactile control. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto take care of connectivity. Additionally, the MyFerrari Connect system enables remote vehicle monitoring through a dedicated smartphone app.Interior colours, like the launch-spec Verde Bellagio, highlight the car’s sporty focus. Optional comfort seats offer massage and ventilation, while the optional Burmester system includes 14 speakers and 1,200W output with customisable audio settings.<h2>New Ferrari Amalfi: Safety Suite</h2>In terms of safety and driver assistance, the Amalfi comes with a comprehensive suite of next-generation ADAS systems.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/ferrari-disqualified-from-le-mans-2025-over-technical-infringement-121021/">Ferrari Disqualified From Le Mans 2025 Over Technical Infringement</a>Safety is ensured by features such as automatic high beam, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and assistance, automatic emergency braking, driver drowsiness and distraction detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, as well as optional surround view and rear cross traffic alert.

New Ferrari Amalfi Coupe Packs 631 bhp V8, Replaces Roma

The Ferrari Amalfi Coupe is priced from €240,000 (roughly Rs 2.42 crore), with initial customer deliveries expected to begin in Europe early next year.

Ferrari’s official importer in Mumbai organised an exclusive launch event&nbsp;at Sofitel Mumbai BKC to welcome the 12Cilindri, the Prancing Horse’s masterpiece that has officially arrived at the Navnit Motors showroom. Only a select&nbsp;group of Ferrari lovers and collectors were invited to experience the supercar up close, which made its global&nbsp;debut last year, and went on sale in India earlier this&nbsp;year at a starting price of Rs 8.5 crore (ex-showroom). The Ferrari&nbsp;12Cilindri, the successor to the 812 Superfast, is available&nbsp;in two body styles: a coupe and a Spider with a retractable hardtop.&nbsp;It borrows design cues from popular V12 Ferrari GTs like the Lusso and 275 GTB/4. The Ferrari 12Cilindri has a 0 to 100km/h acceleration&nbsp;of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of around 350km/h. Let’s take a closer look at other details.<h2>Ferrari 12Cilindri: Exterior and Interior</h2>
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 The 12Cilindri is undeniably a visually stunning car. While it maintains a fastback silhouette similar to its predecessor,&nbsp;the model has grown in overall size. It's now longer, wider,&nbsp;and taller, though its wheelbase is 20mm shorter.&nbsp;The 12Cilindri's design features a long hood accented&nbsp;by horseshoe-shaped vents, sharp rectangular&nbsp;headlights, and sleek black trim that follows the car's low, sculpted front end. It also has continuous taillights,&nbsp;deeply tinted rear glass, bordered by shadowy side panels. and an exposed carbon fibre.
 Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/reviews/car-reviews/ferrari-12cilindri-spider-first-drive-review-versatility-in-verde-120143/">Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider First Drive Review: Versatility in Verde</a>Inside, the 12Cilindri has a dual-cockpit layout, similar to that of the Ferrari Roma and Purosangue.&nbsp;Both driver and passenger get their own dedicated displays.&nbsp;However, there’s an additional screen sitting right on the dashboard above the transmission tunnel.
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 The controls are redesigned, with improved haptic feedback that makes driving feel more intuitive and engaging. <h2>Ferrari 12Cilindri: Powertrain</h2>Ferrari’s 12Cilindri is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine. It revs to 9,500rpm and offers&nbsp;a potent 819bhp at 9,250rpm. It produces 678Nm of torque&nbsp;at 7,250rpm, delivering a rush of power that’s both raw&nbsp;and refined.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/new-ferrari-296-speciale-breaks-cover-with-868bhp-plug-in-hybrid-powertrain-120567/">New Ferrari 296 Speciale Breaks Cover with 868bhp Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain</a>An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmits power to the rear wheels&nbsp;with shifts 30% quicker than before.

Ferrari 12Cilindri with 819BHP Naturally Aspirated V12 Arrives in Mumbai

In India, the price of the Ferrari 12Cilindri starts at Rs 8.5 crore (ex-showroom) for the coupe, and reaches up to Rs 9.15 crore for the Spider convertible. These are ex-showroom prices. 

Is a ‘regular’ Ferrari too tame for you? Do you normally get out of a 488 GTB yawning? If so, say hello to the Pista…

The car that you see here is the most powerful V8 in Ferrari’s history. And that’s saying something, considering that they’ve had their fair share of powerful V8s in the past. Arguably the first hypercar, the F40 of 1987 – the last Ferrari developed under the watch of Enzo Ferrari (or il Commendatore, as he was known), before his death in 1988 – had a 2.9 litre twin-turbo V8 that produced 478bhp. At the time, it was thought that cars would never get any faster. They thought wrong!

The 2003 360 Challenge Stradale had 420bhp, the 2007 F430 Scuderia: 500bhp, the 2013 458 Speciale: 600bhp, and now the 488 Pista – it’s 3.9-litre, twin-turbo V8 produces (wait for it) 711bhp and 770Nm of torque. That’s 50 horses and 10Nm more than the 488 GTB. Clearly, this is a car for those of you who normally get out of a 488 GTB yawning.

100km/h comes up in just 2.85 seconds – versus a ‘leisurely’ 3 seconds in the GTB! 200km/h comes up in a staggering 7.6 seconds. Needless to say, this car is nothing if it isn’t fast. Fitting, I suppose, since it does have the word ‘racetrack’ in its name. Pista means track in Italian in case you haven’t figured that out already.

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista Engine" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-engine-photo-1.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

So, how did they do it?

Well, they started by shaving a full 90 kilograms off the GTB. 18kgs of that comes from the engine alone. Incredible amounts of inspiration have been taken from the 488 GTE and Ferrari Challenge race car – that’s the WEC (World Endurance Championship) racer and the Ferrari one-make series contender respectively.

Let’s start with the body. At the front, there’s a carbon fibre bonnet and bumper. It also has a lithium battery, like the GTE race car. You get the option of a set of carbon fibre rims. The level of detail is such, in fact, that there’s a special coating on the inside of the rims that was originally developed for the aerospace industry – in this case, it’s there to help dissipate the heat generated during braking.

At the rear, there’s a carbon fibre spoiler – a larger one than on the GTB – as well as a carbon fibre rear bumper and diffuser (another item swapped in from the GTE). In the engine bay, 50% of the components are new. Keep in mind that the 488 GTB motor has already won the International Engine of the Year award for the last two years running. This one, meanwhile, has recently claimed the 2018 crown.

<img alt="2018 Ferrari 488 Pista Rear Three Quarter" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-rear-three-quarter.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

The air intakes for the engine have been moved from the flanks on either side of the car to the rear spoiler area, where the intake is directly connected to the plenums. The entire intake is more compact, thanks to a reduced plenum volume and shortened runner length. The con-rods are now titanium – like the race car – and the flywheel and crank have been lightened too. Not only does this mean lower weight and more power, but faster revs too. And boy are the revs fast!

The exhaust manifold is made of Inconel pipes, as opposed to cast iron in the GTB – another component swiped from the race car parts bin. Of course, this means that it’s lighter and unlocks more power, but it also means that it helps with the exhaust note. As one of the Ferrari engineers said, “we always want our engines to make a ‘sound,’ not a ‘noise.”

Turbo lag – what’s that?

The only sense that you get that this is a turbocharged engine is because you hear the turbos spooling up every now and then. Other than that, Ferrari’s variable torque management system ensures that this motor feels entirely like a naturally aspirated engine. That means you get continuously increasing acceleration in every gear. You reach max torque at 3,000rpm in top gear. You reach max power – i.e. all 711bhp worth – at the absolute redline of 8,000rpm. As a result, the power is constant – not to mention instant. And it just doesn’t taper off until you reach the redline. The revs build so unbelievably fast that I actually hit the redline while lapping the Ferrari test track at Fiorano – but more on that later. Suffice to say, you really do have to recalibrate your brain to keep up with the ferocity of this motor.

The only thing that can match the motor, fortunately, is the transmission. This dual-clutch 7-speed feels like the best gearbox ever made – plain and simple! It’s so responsive that it feels telepathic. You merely think about a gear change, and it’s there. And I absolutely love the massive paddles that are fixed to the steering column. It’s useful that they’re so accessible, because you find yourself using them a lot more than you would imagine. For the simple reason that, under hard acceleration, the motor revs so quickly that you’re constantly flicking the right paddle. While, under deceleration, it stops with even more urgency – so you find yourself hurriedly banging down the gears under heavy braking.

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista Rear Dynamic" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-rear-dynamic.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

Stops as well as it goes 

The brake booster has been borrowed – yup, you guessed it – from the 488 GTE racer. As a result of which, the brake pedal has quite limited travel and is very firm. But somehow, it’s progressive at the same time. And the levels of grip are so intense that it’s only really under hard braking that you get some sense of the sheer adhesion provided by the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. Michelin spent two years developing these tyres with Ferrari. They’ve got massive tread block on the shoulders – making them look almost like semi-slicks. But Michelin insists that wet grip isn’t hampered, since they’ve also developed a brand-new compound for this tyre that ensures not only more grip but also most stability – better enabling the tyre to evacuate water when needed.

Well, we were about to put that theory to the test. After spending a couple of hours pootling through the small towns and villages around Maranello, not to mention racing through the switchbacks in the hills around the Ferrari factory, it was finally time to put the Pista where it belongs – on the track!

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista Dynamic Low Angle" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-dynamic-low-angle.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

Wait, what about the aerodynamics?

We can’t get to what the Pista actually feels like on the track without mentioning the level of work that’s gone into the aero development. Just like tyres, this too is a black art – not only do you have to ensure extra downforce, but you also have to eliminate the additional drag that it generates in order to maintain overall aerodynamic efficiency. In addition to that, you also have to ensure good thermal management – for which airflow can play a vital role.

To start with, the defining feature of the Pista is its rather conspicuous S-duct in the front of the car. This is a Formula 1-derived, Ferrari patented technology that’s being used on a road car for the first time. Essentially, there’s a small front wing that creates a low-pressure area at the front of the car. This accelerates the air into a duct that then directs it to the top of the bonnet and over the front of the car – generating additional front downforce, with no penalty in terms of drag.

There are also two massive radiator openings on the front of the car. The radiators themselves are raked rearwards like they are in the 488 GTE race car – rather than placed front facing, as they are on the 488 GTB. This not only improves cooling efficiency by 10%, but also leads to power gains because the hot air from the radiators no longer interferes with the intercooler intakes on the flanks. In fact, believe it or not, 20% of the 50 horsepower increase comes from better thermal management.

At the back, the massive diffuser has three active flaps that stall the diffuser when the additional downforce isn’t needed – thereby limiting drag. At speeds of around 120km/h, or under load, the flaps activate the diffuser and create additional rear downforce.

But, how does this all work in practice?

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista at BIC" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-fiorano-test-track-review.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

Finally, the track 

We were to start with two laps around the circuit with Raffaele De Simone behind the wheel – Ferrari’s very unassuming official test driver. Now, I’ve been in plenty of fast cars with a lot of very quick drivers, but this was another level of intense. As Rafa hit the gas, it was as though my heart attempted to escape from my ribcage. Even though I had experienced it on the road, on the track, initially, everything takes you by surprise – the acceleration, the braking, and especially the lateral grip.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rafa then attempted to demonstrate Ferrari’s latest party trick – Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer or FDE, as it’s called. With the Manettino set to CT-Off, FDE kicks in to make you look like a hero. Instead of behaving like a traditional electronic stability system that engages the minute it detects slip – either by cutting power, or by activating the brake, or both – and thereby slowing you down, FDE engages sooner and more progressively, allowing you to perform a heroic powerslide at the exit of corners without letting you know that it’s cut in at all. It’s almost like it modulates the throttle for you – enabling you to be as quick as possible while exiting corners. Of course, if your inputs are especially ham-fisted or abrupt, it’ll cut in just as abruptly to ensure that you don’t overcook it.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista Track Test" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-track-test-wet.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

But, what about in the wet?

Right, Rafa’s impressive demo over – it was finally my turn! Except, nature was lying in wait too. As we got out of the car, it was as though the clouds had really sprung into action. Rafa – suddenly in a very Zen-like state – put his hand out, and after a few meditative moments declared that we had no more than ten minutes before the rain came. As it turned out, he was bang on the money. The downpour began, literally, as I strapped myself into the driver’s seat.

So, with a big gulp, and with the wipers on their fastest setting, I headed out – full of trepidation – with the Michelin engineer’s words ringing in my ears. I was hoping against hope that he was right, and that wet grip wasn’t compromised. By the time I completed my sighting lap, it was as though we were in the middle of a tropical storm – I kid you not!

The first half of the circuit wasn’t too wet fortunately. Nevertheless, I stayed off the kerbs and the white lines, which tend to be the most slippery in the rain. Slowly, I built up my confidence – until I got to the second half of the lap that is. I missed the apex at the hairpin, and, as I tried to power out, found myself aquaplaning in a straight line – the track was now literally under water. As I got back onto the main straight and attempted to put the power down, the Michelins – new compound and all – were utterly helpless.

The back end snapped. I gave it a full dose of opposite lock in the hope of straightening it out again. As I waited for the back end to come swinging back the right way, I was preparing to catch it from becoming a proper tank slapper, when the electronics kicked in and simply straightened out the car like nothing had ever happened. Needless to say, I was amazed and relieved in equal measure. The next lap too, I was struggling to put the power down in a straight line. Eventually, I thought better of it and called it quits – hoping that the rain would let up sooner rather than later.

<img alt="Ferrari 488 Pista Maranello Test Track" src="/uploads/2018/06/Ferrari-488-pista-maranello-test-track.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;">

Sun shines again&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Fortunately, it did. And I did get my two laps in the dry. And what a set of laps they were. Of course, after my previous outing, there was still a bit of trepidation. So, I was cautious. But not so much that I couldn’t revel in the speed, grip and composure of this incredible machine.

One of Ferrari’s aims was to make this car approachable at the limit – make it easy to drive and fun to push to its extremes. Well, I can safely say that they’ve achieved this objective. Speed is a simply a non-issue in this machine. It’s just there – anytime you want it. But what’s also there is a predictability and composure that very few machines possess at the limit.

This really does feel like a special edition, like a race car for the road. But it’s refined and usable at the same. Sure, they’ve even removed the glovebox to save weight, and they’ve put in washboard-hard seats and four-point harnesses to hold you in place on the tack, but, at the same time, it’s very enjoyable on the road as well.

If I’ve complained, in the past, that modern supercars have become too clinical, I take it all back. Sure, this is clinical, but it’s just so fast that it’s worth it. Plus, it doesn’t isolate you and do everything for you. It works with you, it flatters you. More importantly, it allows you to play with it – and to approach its limits without hesitation. It truly is the forbidden fruit. Once you’ve tasted it, there’s simply no going back.

Frankly, I can’t imagine how a car could be better engineered than this. Is this the best car I’ve ever driven? At the risk of making that claim because the adrenalin is still gushing through my veins, I would have to say so.

There’s nothing more to say, then, is there? Except that it’ll be priced at 4.91 crores when it’s launched in November this year. So, you better start saving… or plotting, or whatever it is that you need to do to own one, because this could well be the pinnacle of the motor car as we know it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwXl4FD2HRE

[tabs]

[tab title="2018 Ferrari 488 Pista"]

Engine:&nbsp;3,902cc / 32-valves / V8 / twin-turbo

Fuel: Petrol

Transmission:&nbsp;7-speed dual-clutch / Rear-wheel drive

Power: 711bhp @ 8,000rpm

Torque: 770Nm @ 3,000rpm

Acceleration: 0-100km/h – 2.85 seconds

Price:&nbsp;Rs 4.91 crore (ex-showroom

X-factor:&nbsp;The latest in a long line of very special V8 Ferraris. The ultimate race car for the road in the world at present.

<table cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
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 <tr>
 <td>Pros &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 • Sensational performance 
 • Incredibly engineered 
 • Extremely refined</td>
 <td>Cons 
 • Will only be experienced by a select few 
 &nbsp;</td>
 </tr>
 </tbody>
</table>

[/tab]

[/tabs]

Ferrari 488 Pista Review, First Drive

It's fast, loud, soulful, and yet isn't too clinical. Yes, the Ferrari 488 Pista is one of the fastest V8's in the world, and so it definitely brings out the driver inside you and screams to triple-digit speeds without hesitation. Full review here.

Jared undergoes a life-altering experience as he pilots a Ferrari 488 GTB around the legendary Daytona International Speedway.

I remember the first time I drove a car. I must have been around 12 years old, and I really didn’t care what it was as long as I could get behind the wheel of anything. The excitement of just being in the driver’s seat overshadowed everything else, and I couldn’t care less if it was a tiny hatchback, a minivan or a busted old Gypsy. That kind of passion for driving is what I miss sometimes.

My passion for motorcycles surpassed my love for cars when I first started working at autoX, as the adrenaline rush that I got from riding some of the fastest litre-class sports bikes and hard-core adventure bikes soon took over. It’s no secret that we test some of the best cars on the planet at our home track, the Buddh International Circuit, but after experiencing the acceleration of a BMW S1000RR or a Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R, driving sports cars – even if they were really fast – just wasn’t as exhilarating an experience anymore. But, then, along came Ferrari!

<img alt="Ferrari 488 GTB Daytona motion" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90221" height="336" src="/uploads/2017/01/Ferrari-488-GTB-Daytona-motion.jpg" width="642" />

I was invited to witness the Finali Mondiali, which was the final round of the legendary Italian carmaker’s glamorous one-make championship. The final races were being held at the Daytona International Speedway, and, of course, I accepted their invitation and headed over to Florida. It was an action packed weekend that ended on a brilliant high, but what happened on the final night was life changing.

A group of international automotive journalists and myself had the Daytona circuit all to ourselves, and we set the track on fire with the latest Ferrari masterpiece – the 488 GTB. The 488 is a big deal for Ferrari because it marks a change of philosophy for the company’s mid-engined supercar. Gone is the naturally aspirated 4.5-litre V8 and in its place is a downsized, direct-injection 3,902cc twin-turbocharged flat-plane-crank V8.

It doesn’t matter how much I love motorcycles, but there’s always a great sense of excitement when I get behind the wheel of a Ferrari. I have driven a few before, but never on a racetrack – and I was about to find out just how incredible an experience it really is.

<img alt="Ferrari 488 GTB Daytona wheel steering" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90219" height="336" src="/uploads/2017/01/Ferrari-488-GTB-Daytona-wheel-steering.jpg" width="642" />

The 488 engine is a masterpiece – the performance is simply out of this world. What the engine lacks in character compared with the outgoing V8 it makes up for with outrageous performance and phenomenal drivability. No matter what gear you’re in, or what speed you’re travelling at, under no circumstances does the 488 GTB make you wait even a nanosecond when you call on the 661bhp and 760Nm of torque. With the seven-speed dual-clutch box, gear changes are also technologically astounding and instant.

Then, the chassis of the car is sublime – beautiful balance, huge grip, incredibly forgiving and miraculously comfortable in terms of ride quality. The handling is also on point of course, and the suspension brilliant. But I won’t go into much detail about the driving dynamics of the car, because we have already reviewed it extensively – and this is more about experiencing a brutally fast Ferrari on a legendary racetrack. The same track that Ferrari achieved their picture-perfect 1-2-3 finish in the 1967 Daytona 24-hour race.

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And that’s what really blew me away – the Daytona track itself. Because the track was setup to use about 80% of the oval, with the balance of the lap being setup in the infield, it was perhaps one of the most exciting racetracks that I’ve ever driven on. And, of course, the fact that I was driving a Ferrari at Daytona only made the experience even more surreal. The feeling you get when you pin the throttle on the 31-degree banking for extended periods of time is just indescribable. On the steep banking of the oval sections the track is angled at a sharp incline, which means that you can feel a great amount of G-forces on the body. And that was something that I’ve never felt before in my life. Looking through the windscreen it felt as if I had achieved flight. The best part was that there were no restrictions on how fast we could go, which only added to the experience and made it the best moment of my life ever on four-wheels.

In a world of McLarens, Lamborghinis and Porsches, I’ve always been more fascinated by Ferrari. And it’s not just me, because the Prancing Horse is perhaps the strongest brand in the world today. And, whatever you think about Ferrari’s move to turbocharging, after experiencing the 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 myself, I can only say that Ferraris continue to get better with each passing generation. After all, the 488 GTB just reignited my passion for driving!

The 1967 24 Hours of Daytona

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We all know that Scuderia Ferrari is the most successful racing team in the history of Formula 1. But what most of you don’t know is that sports car racing was as popular as F1 at its peak in the middle of the 20th century. The 1950’s saw epic battles between Ferrari and Jaguar, in the 1960’s it was Ferrari and Ford, and in the 70’s it was Ferrari and Porsche who waged war at racetracks around the world. 1966 saw the first of Ford’s three victories on the trot at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It also saw Ford take a 1-2-3 finish at the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring in the US. The ‘67 24 Hours of Daytona, however, was where Ferrari managed to get the better of Ford and secured its own 1-2-3 finish. The three teams that crossed the finish line for a photo-finish were Lorenzo Bandini and Chris Amon in the No. 23 Ferrari 330P4 that won the race, followed by Mike Parkes and Ludovico Scarfiottti in the No. 24 330P4 and Pedro Rodriguez and Jean Guichet in the No. 26 330P3 entered by Ferrari’s US importer (and former racer) Luigi Chinetti.

Ferrari 488 GTB at Daytona Speedway

One can only dream about driving a Ferrari 488 GTB with no preset limits. We head over to Daytona International Speedway with an adrenaline rush and a slight fear from this physics-defying machine.

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