Spoiler alert! It’s going be a monster.
Some may have forgotten that Ferrari is finishing up what will be the most sought-after car to ride the prancing horse, despite talk of an SUV and fully electric models. This is the hardcore version 488 GTB that will bring back the “GTO” moniker. It’s already listed in the “488 Special Series Coupe” document by the California Air Resources Board. This means that we know it’s coming.
The go-faster 488 is expected to make its debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show in less than two weeks. It was shown in a dealer meeting through several slideshows that contained some of the technical details. Although the meeting was held behind closed doors due to security concerns, someone managed to sneak in his smartphone and take a few photos, which he shared with a Ferrari-focused website.
It will feature the Ferrari V8 engine with the highest power increase vs donor cars for a V8 special-series V8.
One slideshow revealed that Maranello’s new model will be significantly lighter in weight. It uses a lot of carbon fiber, including the front and rear bumpers, the hood and rear spoiler. The alloy wheels will be 40% lighter than the GTB’s and wrapped in new Michelin Sport Cup 2 rubbers.
The cabin will have more carbon fiber. Ferrari will use it to make the central tunnel and dashboard. To reduce weight, the glove box will not be present. However, the floor panels made of aluminum will be there. The changes will be completed by a pair of body-hugging racing chairs.
The 488 GTO will not only have more power but will also be lighter than the regular model, but it will also be 20% more aerodynamically efficient and will follow the Challenge race car. Slideshows also reveal other details such as an “extremely direct steering response”, optimized gearbox and a new version for the sideslip management.
Rumours suggest that the 488 GTO will be faster than the LaFerrari. But we’ll have to wait to see…