The new Ferrari 488 GTB was revealed to the world at the Geneva Motor Show, set to replace the 458 and featuring a superior turbocharged V8 engine.
The Modena-based supercar manufacturer has a well-established history with mid-mounted V8s. It was with the 308 GTB that Ferrari first made their mark.
Now, the 488 GTB is set to mark its 40 year anniversary.
But what’s so special about this one, and how does it stand to beat the best selling Ferrari in the 458? Wesley from new online car buying service Trusted Car Buyers, who help if you want to sell your car fast and for cash same-day, investigates.
Faster than a 458 Speciale
The biggest difference we have in the 488 GTB versus the 458 is the turbocharged engine under the hood.
What this means is a 99 hp power jump to 661 hp, and a 220nm hike in top torque to 760 Nm. As a result, a 0 to 62 mph burst can be completed in just three seconds flat too - same as the 458 Speciale!
A closer look at the engine reveals a new monster 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 linked up to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gear box.
Scuderia Ferrari is also making bold statements about the 488 GTB’s lap times around its Fiorano test track.
Just 1 minute and 23 seconds. That’s two seconds quicker than the 458 and half a second faster than the specially track-tuned Speciale.
Looks like a LaFerrari
At first glance from the front, it’s clear the 488 GTB takes its shape from the LaFerrari. A look at the headlights and the flattering creases in the bonnet gives that away. The front bumper cuts a fierce figure with one mammoth air duct split in half at the centre, designed to suck up any air that dares get in the way.
Towards the rear, the sides are delicately sculpted with a split vent nestled behind the doors with more resemblance to the 458.
Then, at the very rear, you’ll find the standard triple exhaust replaced by the sexier Speciale-like double exhaust with a big rear diffuser.
What this equates to is a staggering 50 per cent more downforce and less drag, meaning the 488 GTB sticks to the road more and you feel more of those raging horses behind the wheels.
Inside, you’ve your standard angled air vents and stunning dash that’s firmly centred on the driver. The multi-function steering wheel, bucket seats and smooth leather finish top it off.
Drift and F1 controls
What else has Ferrari thrown in to make this one of the best Ferraris ever? They’ve installed a more advanced Side Slip Angle Control (SSC2) meaning you can drift more. Plus with the addition of F1-Trac stability control and an E-Diff electronic differential, the Ferrari 458 GTB will also drive smoother at blisteringly high speeds.
You wouldn’t believe it but after all these tweaks and tune-ups, its fuel economy and emissions are even healthier than the 458.
To sign-off, just listen to what the engineers are saying about the 488 GTB’s exhaust note, describing it as a “new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive”.
All we know is, we want one.
Ferrari 488 GTB Specs
Engine size: 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8
Engine power: 661 hp
0-62 mph: 3.0 secs
Controls: SSC2, F1-Trac, E-Diff
Economy: 25 mpg
CO2 emissions: 260 g/km
