2019 Geneva Motor Show: Ferrari F8 Tributo

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Ferrari Benchmark
For decades, a two-seat mid-engine V8-powered Ferrari has been one of the most coveted sports cars in the world, in any guise or form. This year in Geneva, Ferrari debuted the newest and most powerful version ever — the Ferrari F8 Tributo. The new Ferrari model name pays tribute to the signature mid-engine V8 layout and the massive production of 710 horsepower.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Powerful V8 Engine
The most powerful V8 engine in Ferrari history for a series-production model, the 3.9-liter turbocharged 90-degree V8 produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque — 50 horsepower more than the outgoing 488 GTB, and a record output of 182 horsepower per liter. According to Ferrari specifications, the F8 Tributo will accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds and zero to 124 mph in 7.8 seconds with a top speed of 210 mph.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Legendary Model
Replacing the 488 GTB model in the Ferrari lineup, the Ferrari F8 Tributo traces its history back to the classic Ferrari 308 GTB of the 1970s with the most powerful, aerodynamic and sophisticated model to date. In addition to the impressive increase in power output, the Ferrari F8 Tributo is lighter, more aerodynamic and easier to control at the limit than the model it replaces, with the latest version of Side Slip Angle Control.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Balance at the Limit
Ferrari has continued to optimize the mid-rear-engine architecture for optimal weight balance, and the overall weight has been reduced by 88 pounds compared to the 488 GTB. A new version of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer can be activated with the manettino RACE mode option on the steering wheel, designed to make it easier for a wider range of drivers to both approach the handling limits and control the car at the limit.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Aerodynamic Design
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Tributo offers a new design with emphasis on high performance and aerodynamic improvement. The new aerodynamic package developed on the track includes elements adopted from the 488 Pista, with a 10 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency. To help manage engine heat, the rear-angled front radiators and the dynamic engine air intakes — positioned at either side of the spoiler rather than the rear fenders — both evolved from the 488 Pista.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience New Look
The front of the Ferrari F8 Tributo is dominated by the S-Duct which debuted on the 488 Pista, with aerodynamic input from both the 488 GTE race car and the from Formula One racing. The S-Duct has been further developed for the F8 Tributo and results in a 15 percent increase in downforce compared to the 488 GTB. New brake cooling ducts are added at the upper edges of the compact horizontal LED headlights, in addition to the brake cooling intakes at the outer ends of the front bumper, thereby improving overall airflow through the front wheel arches.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Engine on Display
The powerful new engine is positioned under a Lexan cover to expose the engine compartment — a modern version of the engine cover design from Ferrari’s legendary F40 model which offered a view of its powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The louvers in the cover help hot air escape from the engine compartment without affecting the aerodynamics of the new rear spoiler which creates increased downforce.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Classic Rear End
At the rear, the new spoiler wraps around the taillights. The F8 Tributo features classic twin taillight clusters with a body-color rear panel — design elements reminiscent of the original 308 GTB. The aerodynamically-sculpted rear bumper and aggressive rear diffuser curve around two large exhaust outlets — further evidence of the powerful engine under the rear cover.

© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience Redesigned Interior
The overall look of the driver-oriented cockpit is similar to what one would expect in a two-seat, mid-engine Ferrari, but nearly every element of the dash, door panels and center console have been redesigned. The F8 Tributo includes the latest-generation (Human Machine Interface with new controls, round air vents and a new 7-inch passenger touchscreen display. The new steering wheel rim is smaller in diameter to improve the feel in the driver’s hands, and the steering wheel includes the manettino switch to change drive modes and performance characteristics.