Ferrari’s new Portofino M, for Modificato, intends no minor modifications. We could, without even the slightest hint of exaggeration, say that this is an entirely different machine.
An enhanced engine, a new gearbox, and the addition of Race mode, which is a first for Ferrari GT spider convertibles, are just the beginning for this new Prancing Horse spider. As if it were a small thing,
Ferrari delivers a coupé and a spider all together in a GT that has no competitors for performance, elegance, or even general mechanical architecture.
For many fans, especially those waxing nostalgic, the front engine still arouses emotions that matter when we imagine the car of our dreams. The long bonnet, the roar in front of us that speeds us with force along the roads, the tracks, and our fantasies ... as I said, for many, as for me, it is only natural that I feel it. I see it in front of me. No one needs to push me toward the exhilaration that lies ahead.
Then, think about it -- a 2 + 2 spider that magically transforms into a genuine hardtop coupe. Also true in terms of performance, the Portofino M owns a phenomenal 620 HP, 320 Km/h, 0-100 in 3.4 sec.
Driving a car like this in city traffic might seem difficult considering its power and sporty character, but it is absolutely not an issue. Its new 8-speed gearbox, electronic torque control, and two turbos allow for a relaxing yet exciting drive. Its engine is so flexible that it is not difficult to find yourself traveling at 40 km/h in fifth gear.
But let’s remember, the accelerator puts the driver in control of an absolute beast. Without entering race mode in the manettino, it takes very little pressure to jump aggressively forward, or, in the opposite case, to brake to a complete stop. Either way, drivers and passengers alike will find themselves grateful for the well-designed safety belts.
At NAVIS, we always have a particular interest in the attention to aesthetic, ergonomic, and functional aspects. In a word, we are always mindful of the design of all the wonderful objects that we see, try out, and comment on. The Portofino M commands our attention in every category of comparison. Certainly, while displaying well-deserved aggression, her body also reflects the sophistication exhibited by all of the brand’s products. Elegance and beauty are subjective concepts, but, as a designer, I have learned that experience teaches us important parameters for use in defining and evaluating shapes, volumes, surfaces, and details of such beautiful objects.
There is nothing exaggerated about this car, and this is, in itself, a good value when it comes to style and refinement. The volumes of the car body are perfectly proportioned. The slight curve above the rear wheel is pleasant, highlighting the importance they have in the function of traction, optically confirming their measurements: 285 / 35x20”. Beauty is the standard under the door that, when opening in a classic and comfortable way, discovers an unexpectedly wide and flat heel-kick. Such details show serious attention to the sensations inspired by the machine for those privileged to drive it. The decidedly pleasant experience is subtly obvious. The quality and softness of the leather in the interior, the precision and delicacy of the controls, and the thrilling sound of the engine all contribute to driving bliss. It is in the less visible, quietly hidden details that the quality and aesthetic level of the car is elevated. The Portofino M is graced with a long list of luxurious, understated features.
Presses and air outlets are proportionate in terms of position, size, and shape to their functions and level of performance. Without excessive quantity and aggressiveness, these details prove a positive parameter in evaluating the car’s elegance.
The folding roof system is remarkable in terms of function, resulting in stunning aesthetics. Once closed, we undoubtedly find a beautiful coupé with lines and surfaces that have the visually perfect pace, achieving true continuity. This shows that designers and technicians have worked together in a synergistic way, celebrating the almost intuitive result one can only find in carefully curated automotive models.
The interior retains the Ferrari character and style, with round air conditioning vents and instrumentation concentrated in a single large analog tachometer behind the multi-function steering wheel, deserving of its own, more detailed description.
A multi-function wheel, most of the controls concerning the management and operation of the vehicle are concentrated here, including the famous manettino, now with two new positions: Wet and Race.
The 10.25” touchscreen is placed in the center of the dashboard above an unobtrusive tunnel. This makes the interior space wider and allows greater sharing of the driver’s screen with the passenger. The passenger side also has a 7” touchscreen capable of managing personal preferences in music, navigation, and travel data info. The passenger screen can also communicate with the driver’s screen.
In summary, the Portofino M is undoubtedly a magnificent car, naturally expected from one born under the Ferrari brand. The dash is intelligently designed. Torque is managed brilliantly, especially in the low gears. The car is easy to drive yet has an energetic feel. The AC and vent system earn top marks. It has a three-year warranty and a seven-year maintenance package. The car brings with it the fascination of the sports history of the House, of its competitive and non-competitive performances, of the technological innovations, of the memory and attraction for many of the front engine models, of the thrill of open-air racing, but in addition to all this, without a doubt offering data and technical numbers of an authentic supercar.
