Five Reasons Why the Portofino Is Already a Timeless Icon
Ferrari Portofino picks up where the California T left off. And we couldn’t be more excited about it.
Unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show as the successor to the Ferrari California T, the new Ferrari Portofino made its official showroom debut last February in China, Japan, and Hong Kong. Now that U.S. dealers are taking orders for the 592 hp Ferrari Portofino, we consider the top five reasons why the gorgeous grand touring sports cars is one of the most legendary and timeless vehicles in automotive history.
1. The F154 3.9-liter Twin-turbo V8 Engine
Named for the small town on the Italian Riviera, the Portofino gains its superpowers from the three-time International Engine of the Year: the Ferrari F154 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8. In the new car, the F154 makes 592 black stallions (40 more than the V8 in the California T) and 561 lb-ft of torque, and can launch the grand tourer to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, all without any turbo lag.
2. It’s a Technological Wonder
Let’s start with the Ferrari Portofino‘s retractable hard top. In only 14 seconds, you’ll be able to praise the summer sun or block out winter’s chill. Either way, you’ll have access to the 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (via the F1-style paddle shifters) from the lovely leather seats. And speaking of seating, your little ones will have plenty of room to stretch their legs, thanks to the front seats’ backrest design.
3. Electric Power Steering
The Portofino is the first Ferrari with electric power steering, allowing the driver to swing around the corners like never before. The chassis has better rigidity than the California T, and weighs 176 pounds less. The F145 offers variable boost management, meaning savings at the pump, and tons of acceleration for when it is needed the most.
4. The Exterior Design is Flawless
Ferrari does a bang-up job on exterior design, and the Portofino is no exception. With the top up, the roof flows nicely into the mini flying buttresses on the trunk, which, in turn, curve down into the main body line. Even with the top down, the Portofino maintains its aggressive appearance, one that can only be done well by Ferrari.
5. It’s a Blast to Drive
The F145 will no doubt get you up to speed, but the Portofino’s driving dynamics will make you smile like a lunatic. Ferrari’s Magnaride suspension means excellent body control and reduction in body roll, especially when placed in Sport mode. If comfort is more your vibe, the Comfort mode promises to make you feel like you’re on a cloud, no matter how rough the highway actually is. The electronic diff and integrated traction control guarantees a great time in the Portofino, especially when grip is at a premium.
Top U.S. luxury car dealerships are currently taking orders for the new Ferrari Portofino, with some, like Ferrari Bentley Lotus of Denver, and Algar Ferrari of Philadelphia, offering to schedule time with a Ferrari Brand Specialist to configure and personalize the Portofino.
Join the 6SpeedOnline forums now!
