Exterior
Just like its predecessor, the 488 Challenge is a slightly beefed-up version of the standard road car as far as design goes. This is most noticeable things are up front, where Ferrari redesigned a significant amount of features. First, the front radiator layout was reworked, inverting the rake so that they are now inclined towards the rear. This solution improves the air flow over the radiators in racing conditions while also reducing drag. The new layout required new vents at the bottom of the bumper ahead of the wheels. In order to further improve aerodynamics, Ferrari added winglets at each corner of the splitter, as we as on each side of the bumper.
The front hood is also new and features a triple vent design with integrated flaps that direct the hot airflow from the radiators toward the rear of the car. Other details that set the Challenge apart from the 488 GTB are the quick-release hood pins on each side of the nose and body-colored plastic covers that hide almost 75 percent of the headlamps.
More changes are visible on the sides, starting with the more aggressive side skirts and race-speed wheels wrapped in slick tires. The door windows have been replaced by lightweight plastic panels with sliding center section, while the quarter window was removed to make way for a race-spec fuel cap. Around back, modifications include mesh grilles for the taillights outlets and diffuser, a black-painted center fascia, and more importantly, a massive carbon-fiber wing that’s bigger than the one that came with the 458 Challenge. This new wing is based on that of the 488 GTE and increases efficiency by nine percent compared to the 458 Challenge EVO. Also, the revised aero package increases overall airflow and downforce efficiency by seven percent.
Finally, the presentation car sports a cool new livery with white and blue accents over the bright-yellow body. The livery includes the number 25 on the doors, added to celebrate the Ferrari Challenge’s 25th anniversary.
Interior
The interior of the 2018 Ferrari 488 Pista features a fairly sporty interior, 4-point seat belts, an uncoated metal floor, and an overall atmosphere of concentration. There is the option to add some additional comfort-enhancing elements, such as leather or a navigator, if the buyer so desires. Sitting behind the wheel one can feel the “racing mood,” setting the bare carbon fiber on the front fascia.
It is also eloquently evidenced by a tightly sealed wall where the glove box should have been. Otherwise, the interior of the Ferrari 488 Pista echoes the minimalism, sporty feel, and high build quality of the standard variant. Sit comfortably is helped by the sports bucket seats, which perfectly hold the human body. In front of the driver is placed recognizable 3-spoke sports multifunction wheel, behind which is a modern dashboard.
Ferrari 488 Spider Owner Reviews
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4.67/5
Very Good
based on 9 reviews
- All (9)
- Features (1)
- Specs (2)
- Exterior (1)
- Seats (1)
- Mileage (3)
-
An iconic sports car
Ferrari 488 Spider has blown me away with its poise, performance, and speed. I laud the engine for its stunning power delivery and monstrous torque…
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L
Liberato
Jun 15, 2023 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Non compromising Ferrari car that appeals with its unique charisma
The first thing that I realized after checking this Ferrari car closely is this has not done an inch of compromise in any aspect while manufacturing…
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C
Christian
Feb 21, 2023 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Drop Top Sports Car
To express my views on its functionality I must actually rest my hands behind the controls. But I can certainly share my opinion on what I gathered…
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D
Diego
Feb 09, 2022 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Really really fast
I have driven quite a few sports cars being a part of a large sports car owners’ community in the Philippines. Although, the experience of driving…
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S
Shawn
Nov 13, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
The Ferrari you can buy with closed eyes
When it comes to a Ferrari, you do not have to worry about the appearance or the features or the interior styling. The only thing that you need to…
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N
Nicholas
Aug 02, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Astounding flexibility
When you say sports car, you would not be imagining taking it to rough road conditions and difficult tracks. Although, if you do want a car that can…
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F
Francis
Jul 29, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
The latest version of Ferrari
The highly impressive and latest version of the Ferrari 488 sports series has an open-air design. This beautiful sports car has been painted light…
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M
Mark
Mar 06, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Best open-air Ferrari car
This is the newest version of the 488 sports series with open air car design from Ferrari. Painted in light blue color, the color looks amazing and…
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Julian
Dec 08, 2020 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
excellent car from Ferrari
A Ferrari is the name which is undoubtedly had to have. I always was fond of Ferraris. I was thrilled to have Ferrari 488-Spider. It’s the best and…
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R
Rewan
Jun 29, 2019 for Ferrari 488 Spider
Интерьер
Внутренняя часть Ferrari 488 Pista 2018 оснащена достаточно спортивным салоном, 4-точечными ремнями безопасности, металлическим полом без покрытия и общей атмосферой концентрации. По желанию покупателя есть возможность внести некоторые дополнительные элементы, улучшающие комфорт, например кожу или навигатор. Сидя за рулем ощущается «гоночное настроение», задающее голым углепластиком на передней панели.
Также об этом красноречиво свидетельствует наглухо запечатанная стенка там, где должен был быть перчаточный ящик. В остальном, интерьер Ferrari 488 Pista повторяет минимализм, спортивную атмосферу, высокое качество сборки стандартного варианта. Удобно сидеть помогают спортивные кресла-ковши, которые прекрасно держат тело человека. Перед водителем размещено узнаваемое 3-спицевое спортивное многофункциональное колесо, за которым стоит современная приборная панель.
Ferrari 488 GTB FAQ
Is Ferrari 488 GTB a good car?
Yes, The Ferrari 488 GTB is a good car and it delivers the most intense performance yet
What does GTB mean on Ferrari?
The meaning of GTB in Ferrari is Gran Turismo Berlinetta
How many 488 GTBs are there?
Ferrari 488 GTB built with around 3,500 Pistas
How much horsepower does a 488 Ferrari have?
Ferrari 488 engine produces the 711 horsepower
How much does a Ferrari 488 GTB cost?
An average Ferrari 488 GTB costs an estimated price of $282,216 but prices can differ depending on its condition and dealership.
Are there online platforms where I can buy the Ferrari 488 GTB?
Ferrari is a brand with an official site on which you can look through their cars and find authorized dealers in your area.
Are there any specific documents required for purchasing the Ferrari 488 GTB?
You’ll be required to submit identity documents as well as proof of address along with other legal and financial documents required by the dealership.
Can I customize the Ferrari 488 GTB according to my preferences?
Ferrari provides extensive customization options for their vehicles. You can discuss your preferences with the dealership’s sales team to explore customization possibilities.
Are there financing options available for purchasing the Ferrari 488 GTB?
Ferrari offers various financing options through their authorized dealerships. You can discuss the available financing plans with the dealership’s sales team.
Are there any limited editions or special versions of the Ferrari 488 GTB?
Ferrari occasionally releases limited editions or special versions of their vehicles. You can inquire about such offerings with the dealership’s sales team or check the official Ferrari website for updates.
Exterior GTB/Spider
Initially, there is a feeling that the appearance of the Ferrari 488 has not changed much. Although in reality all the changes are of a minor nature, in general there are quite a lot of them. The front end now has a noticeably different bumper that has two vertical dividers. As for the front optics, its shape has not changed, but the internal design has been slightly redesigned.
The hood of the Ferrari 488 Spyder, and to be more precise, the lid of the luggage compartment, because it is located in front, has been changed dramatically. Such changes were to improve aerodynamic performance.
The side of the Ferrari 488 Spider boasts modified fenders, a sill, which became a little bigger, as well as another aerodynamic chisel. The latter passes to the rear wing, where there is a place for the air intake, divided into two parts. The first “transmits” the air flow to the engine, and the second to the rear brakes. Both parts pre-cool the air with a common intercooler.
The height of the ground clearance is 155 millimeters. Thanks to the streamlined high roof, the dynamics increase and the car seems to suggest a swift ride. The “Italian” is supported by 20-inch massive wheels, which almost “reach” the level of the glazing line. The rear part received tweaked headlights, having LED stuffing. Near them there is a place for enlarged air ducts from the engine compartment.
The rear bumper is seriously changed. It was decided to insert the exhaust pipes in it, which looks more cool. The diffuser was left in its place. As you can see, the Italians have a car that could well compete for the title of one of the most elegant sports cars.
Interior GTB/Spider
As for the interior architecture, it has been left at the same level, but many small details have been changed. Thanks to these even minor changes, the interior of the Ferrari 488 looks newer. The lion’s share of the interior is lined with quality leather in two colors. In some places the engineers decided to use alcantara. The sports car is equipped with two seats that have sports side support and electric adjustments.
The seats themselves were finished with perforated leather. It is very comfortable to sit in sports seats, as they perfectly hold the torso during turns. If we talk about the free space, it also remained at the same level – there is a lot of it, as for a sports model. Just for this reason the supercar Ferrari 488 GTB is positioned as an everyday car.
The sports three-spoke steering wheel of the Ferrari 488 sports coupe looks recognizable upon cursory inspection, except that the shapes of the keys for the most essential functions have changed. The “steering wheel” has buttons for turn signals, engine start, switching of driving modes, and also shock absorber’s stiffness. Not without round indicators, integrated into the rim of the steering wheel, associated with the tachometer. During the manual mode it is very convenient to switch gears.
The instrument panel itself has not changed. In the very center is installed a well with a massive visually analog engine speed gauge, as well as an electronic speedometer built into it. On the sides there are displays that display data on the status of various units of the supercar. For example, the left display shows the degree of heating and overheating of the power unit, gearbox, tires and brakes.
The central console hosts as little equipment as possible. At the top there is an entertainment system unit, equipped with two washers and three buttons. Below it placed a separate climate control unit, which is regulated with washers and a few buttons. Pretty stylish design went to the air duct nozzles, which changed their own shape, which gave them aggressiveness.
On the left side of the steering wheel, there is room for a similarly shaped unit as the one in the center. It is responsible for adjusting the behavior of the Ferrari GTB/Spyder. For example, it is possible to adjust the pressure of the turbine. Most of the changes were made to the central tunnel, equipped with another rack with gearbox controls. It was changed not only by color but also the form of execution. Near it the emergency button is located, and in front of it – a cup holder.
As a result, the interior has turned out to be really practical, high-quality and comfortable. Of course, there can be questions about not the best ergonomics, but we should not forget that we are talking about a powerful sports car. The luggage compartment in the front has received volume of only 210 liters. But again, for a sports car it is quite a good option.
-: Ferrari 488 GTB Price in India, Specs, Features, Review, Images, Wallpaper:-
Hey, Friends Hi! And welcome to my site, and I hope you are doing well, are you searching online for an article in which you will find the Ferrari 488 GTB Sports Cars? If yes and you are doing so, then your search will end you here. You will explore more things about this Sportscar in this article of mine.
Because here in this article I will be sharing everything about Ferrari 488 GTB Sports Car. I have provided almost all the details I hope you will like this article. Let’s get started with it.
The Ferrari 488 GTB name marks a return to the standard Ferrari model specification 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 produces exceptional performance, but it also makes that extreme power exploitable and controllable to an original level even by fewer expert drivers.
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Ferrari 488 GTB Sports Car Key Features
- Maximum Power 670 CV(492 kW) @ 8000 rpm
- Acceleration is 0.3 sec 0-100km/h (0 – 62 MPH)
- The Ferrari 488 GTB features very significant 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.
- 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
- 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.
- The new V8 also has an ion-sensing system that measures ionizing currents to control ignition timing and adaptively predict misfires, as well as a multi-spark function.
- The Ferrari 488 GTB’s cabin was designed to exude extreme sportiness without sacrificing occupant comfort.
Ferrari 488 Spider
Итальянцы рассекретили долгожданную модель 488 Spider – открытую версию купе 488 GTB. Соответственно, автомобиль получил такой же, как у двухдверки, новый турбомотор V8 3.9 (670 л.с., 760 Н•м), которому ассистирует семиступенчатый «робот» с двумя сцеплениями. До сотни родстер разгоняется аналогично купе за три секунды, но в наборе 200 км/ч отстаёт от него на 0,4 с (8,7). И максималка на 5 км/ч ниже (325), чем у закрытой сестры. Паспортный расход топлива такой же – 11,4 л/100 км.
Сухая масса равна 1420 кг (на 50 больше, чем у купе с тем же двигателем), а снаряжённая – 1525 (как указывает компания, с рядом опционального оборудования). Однако нужно учесть, что итальянцы приняли ряд мер, чтобы жёсткость открытого кузова на кручение, которая выросла на 23%, не уступала показателю 488 GTB. Для этого в конструкции были использованы 11 различных алюминиевых сплавов в сочетании с магнием.
Автоматическая жесткая крыша производства Scaglietti была названа Retractable Hard Top. Такая же конструкция использовалась в 458 Spider. Она сделана из алюминия, что сказалось на весе – экономит 40 кг при использовании традиционных материалов для стандартного жесткого верха и 25 кг при постройке мягкого.
488 Spider кажется логичным и естественным продолжением модельного ряда. Пиарщики Ferrari даже называют новичка самым совершенным в истории компании автомобилем с жестким складным верхом.
Нужно отметить, что 488 Spider фантастически хорош собой. Особенно в не совсем традиционном для Маранелло голубом окрасе. Да и к слову, крыша убирается всего за 14 секунд. Не рекорд, быть может, но очень даже быстро.
В Ferrari говорят, что при 200 км/ч с открытым верхом, в кабине автомобиля будет комфортно разговаривать, не повышая голос.
Хотя за рулем Ferrari важнее другие цифры. Например, итальянцы уверяют, что система SSC2 Side Slip Angle Control даже в последнем водителе пробуждает внутреннего Феттеля, заставляя его выходить из поворотов на 12% быстрее… Осталось понять, как на практике убедиться в справедливости этих обещаний.
Источники
- http://ferrari-488.infocar.ua/https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_488https://auto.tsn.ua/news/zheneva-2015-ferrari-488-gtb-414224.html
Внешний вид
Изначально складывается ощущение, будто внешний вид Феррари 488 почти не поменялся. Хотя в реальности все изменения мелкого характера, в целом их достаточно много. Передняя часть обладает теперь заметно другим бампером, имеющим две вертикальные перегородки. Что касается передней оптики, ее форма не изменилась, однако внутренний дизайн был немного переработан.
Капот Феррари 488 Спайдер, а если быть более точным, крышка багажного отделения, потому он расположен впереди, поменяли кардинально. Такие изменения должны были улучшить аэродинамические характеристики.
Боковая часть Ferrari 488 Spider может похвастаться видоизмененными крыльями, порогом, который стал немного больше, а также другой аэродинамической выштамповкой. Последняя переходит к заднему крылу, где нашлось место для воздухозаборника, разделенного на 2 части. Первая «передает» воздушный поток к двигателю, а вторая к задним тормозным устройствам. Обе части предварительно охлаждают воздух с помощью общего интеркулера.
Высота дорожного просвета составила 155 миллиметров. Благодаря обтекаемой высокой крыше повышается динамика и автомобиль будто навивает мысль о стремительной езде. Опирается «итальянец» на 20-дюймовыми массивные колеса, которые почти «достают» до уровня линии остекления. Задняя же часть получила подкорректированные фары, имеющие светодиодную начинку. Возле них нашлось место для увеличенных воздуховодов из моторного отсека.
Что касается заднего бампера, его серьезно изменили. Было решено вставить патрубки выхлопной системы в него, что выглядит более круто. Диффузор решили оставить на прежнем месте. Как видно, у итальянцев получился автомобиль, который вполне может побороться за звание одного из самых элегантных спорткаров.
Let’s talk about this one, please…
The F8 Spider is an open-air version of the F8 Tributo coupe we drove in August 2019. Its platform dates back to the 458, and this new model slots in the gap between the 488 Spider (which it replaces and comprehensively updates) and the 488 Pista Spider track special.
The premise here is all the comfort and usability of the 488 Spider, all the performance of the Pista Spider with only 20kg extra to carry, plus a tickle of fresh exterior and interior design. Prices start from £225,897, which represents a £6k increase over the previous 488 Spider. McLaren asks £242k for a 720S Spider, while Ferrari’s other V8 convertible, the front-engined Portofino, costs £168k.
So the spec is much like the Tributo, but for the first time the F8 Spider throws this combination open to the elements, using the retractable hardtop from the 488, with a tweak to the tonneau cover. Press a button and that tonneau, with twin roadster pods, rises up like a rocket launcher, and a two-piece lid twirls through 180° before lowering, leaving the car looking all the better for the transformation. The revolving-roof process takes only 14 seconds, the whirring of hydraulic motors is impressively quiet, and you can do this at speeds of up to 28mph. That said, I think the Tributo design is more harmonious than the roof-up Spider; the coupe’s cooler too, with its F40-inspired Lexan rear screen and view over the V8, which the Spider loses.
Внешний вид и интерьер
Во внешнем виде узнаются формы старой 458 Italia, но он имеет отличительные черты и отсылки к оригинальному 308 GTB.
Аэродинамика была улучшена за счет использования вихрегенераторов, распределяющих потоки воздуха под днищем автомобиля, новой формы переднего бампера и заднего спойлера. Задний диффузор имеет изменяемую под управлением компьютера геометрию закрылков, которые позволяют балансировать между прижимной силой и лобовым сопротивлением. Коэффициент эффективного аэродинамического действия 1,67 является рекордными показателем среди дорожных автомобилей Ferrari. Прижимная сила выше на 50% по сравнению с 458й, при 250 км/ч воздух генерирует почти 325 кг.
Интерьер не подвергся радикальным изменениям, и, как в предыдущей модели, имеет расположенные на руле кнопки Start-stop, поворотников, стеклоочистителей, управления трекшн-контролем «manettino» и габаритных огней. Электронная начинка имеет систему запуска двигателя без ключа (Keyless Start), а также обновлённый интерфейс информационно-развлекательной системы, 12 стерео динамиков суммарной мощностью 1250 Ватт.
Prices
Pricing information is not yet available, but don’t expect the 488 Challenge to be cheap. With the previous Challenge model priced at around $300,000, the new race car should cost anywhere between $320,000 and $350,000. For reference, the road-going 488 GTB starts from around $270,000.
If you’re planning to join the Ferrari Challenge series, you should also keep in mind that there are additional costs to go racing. For instance, if the car is run by a dealer team, racing will cost at least $20,000 per race weekend, a sticker that includes crew support, a fee to Ferrari North America, transportation and living costs, fuel, and tires. Privateer entries can be run at a slightly lower cost, but competitors still need around $200,000 to run a full season. All told, be prepared to spend at least half a million bucks to buy a 488 Challenge and race it in the 2017 season.
Ferrari 488 Spider Questions & Answers (FAQs)
Get answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Ferrari 488 Spider, including its features, specifications, performance, maintenance, and more.
What are the price of Ferrari 488 Spider?
The Ferrari 488 Spider price in the Malaysia starts from RM RM 1.34 Million and goes up to RM RM 1.34 Million (excluding SST).
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The new Ferrari 488 Spider has Cargo volume of 230 L .
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The length of Ferrari 488 Spider is 4568 mm , while the width is 1952 mm .
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The fuel tank capacity of Ferrari 488 Spider is 78 L .
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The Ferrari 488 Spider Alloy Wheel Size is 20 Inch .
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Ferrari 488 Spider Owner Reviews
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4.5/5
Very Good
based on 12 reviews
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Advanced traction, easy to drive at all speeds
The Ferrari 488 Spider carries forward the legacy of its predecessor 458 and pushes the bar even higher. The most impressive thing about the 488…
Read More
A
Amsyar
Oct 18, 2023 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
A desirable drop-top
I can’t stop raving about the immense capabilities of the Ferrari 488 Spider. It is not the most stylish Ferrari ever, but it has enough power to…
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M
Manuel
Jun 20, 2023 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
The Ultimate Roadster
As a Ferrari enthusiast, I was impressed by the 488 Spider’s performance and design. The car’s retractable hardtop is a significant change, allowing…
Read More
Z
Zena
Mar 10, 2023 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Fascinating option from the stable of Ferrari
I am highly fascinated by this very unique version of the Ferrari. This can instill a positive feel in the rider’s heart with its quick and capable…
Read More
I
Iyaan
Oct 26, 2022 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Best-looking convertible
The Ferrari 488 Spider, in my opinion, is the best-looking convertible supercar that the Italian manufacturer has ever produced. The Ferrari 488…
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K
Karl Adrian
Mar 16, 2022 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
-
A much Ravishing Model
The car is certain to bring in the stroke of magical love and confidence in my life once I get it in. The outstanding Charisma of this car is…
Read More
M
Mudassir
Feb 22, 2022 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
The open top you can’t look away from
If you are intending to buy a convertible sports car and have a considerable budget, the Ferrari 488 Spider is the perfect choice for you. The car is…
Read More
D
Danny
Dec 10, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
The ideal package
The Ferrari 488 Spider is an all-around performer. It not only excels with its design but also does well when it comes to the ride experience. The…
Read More
I
israel
Oct 11, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
Maximum drop-top fun
It’s not been long since I bought my dream car, a Ferrari 488 Spider. This beauty has a charisma that cannot be overlooked. It possesses a 3902 cc…
Read More
G
grant
May 31, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider -
This Ferrari is a statement.
I consider my Ferrari Spider as a symbol of my success, pride and achievement. It’s handling and ride are even more impressive. The right amount of…
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N
Nazmi
Mar 27, 2021 for Ferrari 488 Spider
Exterior
In fact, the Italians showed a racing variant adapted for public roads, to which many have attributed the name “GTO”. If you compare with the first variant of the Ferrari 488 GTB, the novelty is equipped with a number of differences, although in general the car is recognizable. Italian engineers have equipped the front of the novelty air intake S-Duct. According to official information the downforce of the Ferrari 488 Pista is 20% more than that of Ferrari 488 GTB.
In addition to this, the Italian engineers managed to redesign the air ducts under the bottom of the vehicle, which also had a good effect on the aerodynamic characteristics. The weight of the supercar has dropped by as much as 90 kilograms. This was partly achieved by using carbon fiber in the construction. The front fairing, the engine cover, the rear spoiler and the diffuser were made from it.
In addition, the car is equipped with 20-inch carbon fiber “rollers”, available as a separate option. Ground clearance height is 155 millimeters. The rear boasts a longer spoiler, which has become higher and longer. As a result, it produces 20 percent more downforce. Otherwise, it is still the same “basic” recognizable Ferrari 488 GTB.
Drivetrain
As it is the case with all Challenge models, the 488 retains the of standard model. That said, the race car comes with the same 660 horsepower 560 pound-feet of torque on tap, which makes it the most powerful Challenge ever created. But while the turbocharged, 3.9-liter V-8 has the output of the road-going 488 GTB, many drivetrain components have been revised for intense track use. For instance, it has a specific engine mapping optimised for increased racing racing performance, as well as shorter gear ratios that provide up to an 11.6 percent increase in acceleration out of turns compared to its predecessor. The F1 DCT transmission also features a new racing shift strategy which enables the car to accelerate from a standstill to maximum revs in fourth gear in just six seconds.
The drivetrain is also lighter, with 19.7 kg (43.4 pounds) being shaved off the engine alone due to lighter, race-spec components. A further 8.5 kg (18.7 pounds) was saved by installing a new exhaust system.
The Slip Angle Control software that Ferrari patented for the 488 GTB also made its way into the Challenge model, improving the longitudinal acceleration through bends by 4.2 percent. Further enhancements include the decoupling of the manettino function regulating the electronic vehicle dynamic controls. Rather than using a single manettino for all software setting, the functions have been separated into two, on either side of the steering wheel. The right-hand manettino (called the TC1) alters the level of intervention required based on the levels of grip, while the left-hand one (TC2) controls the degree of intensity of intervention. Ferrari says that this results in a more tailored degree of integration between the driver and the car and enhanced performance.
Speaking of performance, all the developments above coupled with the revised aerodynamics make the 488 Challenge a full second quicker than the 458 Challenge EVO on the Fiorano race track. What’s more, with a lap time of 1:15.5 minutes, the 488 Challenge is only a second slower than the FXX-K and a second quicker than the FXX Evoluzione. The new Challenge is also four seconds quicker than the LaFerrari supercar on the same track! Compared to the standard 488 GTB, the Challenge is a whooping eight seconds quicker. The Maranello crew has yet to publish acceleration and top speed figures, but it’s safe to assume it’s quicker than the road-going 488. With the GTB needing three seconds to reach 60 mph, I’d say that the Challenge can get there in 2.9 ticks, which is pretty impressive. Top speed, on the other hand, is either unchanged at 205 mph or lower, as it usually happens with race cars.
Are there compromises with the new F8 Spider?
I’m struggling to think of any as the Ferrari and I fly across this rolling landscape with sun beating into the cabin, bringing an almost obscene 710bhp to the boil with flicks of long paddleshifters fixed to the steering column. Squeezing the F8’s perky throttle, it’s the insatiable surge of midrange performance – 568lb ft from 3250rpm – that’s the real giveaway that we’re dealing with forced induction, rather than a mushy throttle, finger-drumming turbo lag or any lack of enthusiasm for revs. Only Ferrari makes turbo engines so responsive.
Judging by the way in which the F8 arcs and glides through turns, neither is there much difference to the coupe’s beguiling dynamics; suspension is near identical, with the adaptive damper tuning adjusted for the extra weight. There’s still that medium-light and super-rapid Ferrari steering, the sensation of a mid-engined supercar that’s set low and planted and very much on the nose as you corner, and palpable tension as the e-diff loads up and the throttle bristles with energy, like the F8’s goading you into bad behaviour (an evolution of Side Slip Angle Control and Dynamic Enhancer means you’ve got more scope to play and less chance of putting it in a field, too). There might be a little extra wheel patter versus a coupe, particularly roof-down, but no, compromise definitely isn’t the first word that springs to mind.
And you get to hear more of that V8…
The engine remains a 3.9-litre V8, but it evolves the base 488’s unit with 50 per cent new parts, including titanium conrods, Inconel manifolds and titanium turbocharger turbine wheels that all help boost power by a huge 49bhp, pep up response and drop 18kg, just like the Pista. Accelerate from rest and 62mph flashes up in 2.9 seconds, 124mph in just 8.2.
Crucially, though, emissions regulations now mandate a gasoline particulate filter, and after a head-turning bark on start-up, the F8 settles to a disappointing putter. Things improve on the move, with more voluminous bass, and there’s no question of this being an exciting engine, but it’s still gruffer and less tuneful than the 488 Spider that introduced turbos to modern mid-engined Ferrari convertibles. Neither is there quite the Pista’s sense of visceral connection.
This is all relative, however – select Race mode, thread the Spider down a flowing B-road and it is sublimely balanced and engaging, with Zen-like body control, a cushioned ride (Bumpy Road mode is best, activated by a button on the steering wheel), keen steering and strong brakes. These qualities form the stage upon which the benchmark powertrain then struts its stuff. Squeeze that throttle, feel the instant surge, the escalating excitement of chasing high revs and dual-clutch shifts as tight as a snare drum, and wonder if driving can ever be more enjoyable than this.