Named After Italy's Most Charming Port Town

At the press conference to introduce the features and innovations of the new Ferrari Portofino, Dieter Knechtel, CEO of Ferrari Far East and Middle East, emphasized, "This car aimed for no compromises." He explained, "It achieves both unparalleled performance and exquisite comfort. Furthermore, no car on the market today offers both driving emotion and these qualities. To achieve this goal, we had to innovate everything and rebuild it from scratch."

He also commented, "The name 'Portofino' for this new model is derived from one of Italy's most charming port towns."

"It is a place that embodies 'la dolce vita' (the sweet life). It is modest yet elegant, embodying the very essence of Ferrari. Imagine cruising out to sea with the wind in your hair – that is the driving experience of the Portofino. We hope you will savor the meaning of the name while experiencing this feeling."

The 3.9-liter, 90-degree V8 twin-turbo engine, mounted at the front, is an evolution of the engine type that won International Engine of the Year in 2016 and 2017. By adopting new components such as aluminum alloy pistons and redesigned connecting rods, and refining the engine control software, it achieves a maximum output of 600 hp (441 kW) at 7,500 rpm – an increase of 40 hp over the previous model – and a maximum torque of 760 Nm at 3,000-5,250 rpm, an increase of 5 Nm.

This results in a top speed of 320 km/h (316 km/h for the California T) and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.5 seconds (3.6 seconds for the California T). Ferrari's signature throttle response of under one second and zero-lag tradition are also maintained.

The exhaust sound, which can be selected from four types depending on usage, has also been tuned to enhance the Cavallino Rampante (Prancing Horse) engine's character for open-top driving. Combined with the proprietary variable boost management system, which adjusts torque delivery based on the selected gear, these improvements deliver superior acceleration in all seven gears compared to the previous model, while maintaining fuel efficiency of 10.5 L/100 km. CO2 emissions are reduced to 245 g/km, a decrease of 5 g/km.

Retractable Hardtop Opens and Closes in 14 Seconds

To complement this engine, new technologies have been introduced around the lightweight, one-piece molded chassis.

The combination of the third-generation electronic rear differential system, dubbed "E-Diff3," making its debut in the Portofino, and the "F1-Trac" traction control system, derived from F1 cars, enhances lateral performance limits. Furthermore, integration with the newly adopted EPS (Electronic Power Steering) has reduced the steering ratio by 7 percent without sacrificing high-speed stability, providing a natural feel and feedback.

Additionally, the evolved SCM-E (magnetorheological damping system) with dual-coil technology suppresses body roll and improves ride comfort on rough surfaces. As a result, the Portofino is claimed to achieve a comfortable ride while being 80 kg lighter than the California T and having increased torsional rigidity. The front-to-rear weight distribution, in true Ferrari tradition, is 46:54, with the rear slightly heavier.

The body, measuring 4,586mm long, 1,938mm wide, and 1,318mm high, is 16mm longer, 28mm wider, and 4mm lower than the California T. The transformation time from Berlinetta (coupe) to open-top spider is just 14 seconds. The sequence of the rear glass overlapping the roof and retracting into the trunk is smooth, and the top can be operated even while driving at low speeds.

Balancing Aerodynamics and Design

The Portofino unveiled on this day featured a sparkling pearl white body combined with a black retractable hardtop (RHT) designed by the Ferrari Design Center.

The exterior development involved daily collaboration between the aerodynamics department and the Ferrari Design Center, from the selection of component layouts to determining airflow for heat dissipation and all details of the underbody and bodywork.

This is evident in the large radiator grille extending to the front corners of the nose, emphasized by the newly designed full LED headlights, and the "air curtain" type intakes hidden at the outer edges of the headlights to channel airflow towards the rear via the front wheel arches.

Meanwhile, the rear, adopting a trimaran design, emphasizes width by increasing the spacing between the taillights.

This area also houses the newly designed RHT, which folds away with a lightweight design. The trunk can accommodate two cabin trolleys when the top is open and three when closed.

The interior features numerous new functions focused on passenger comfort, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a new air conditioning system that enhances comfort regardless of the roof's open or closed state, 18-way power-adjustable electric seats with redesigned backrests that expand rear passenger legroom, and a passenger display.

Additionally, a new wind deflector reduces cabin airflow by 30% and wind noise during open-top driving. On the other hand, the large rev counter, marked up to 10,000 rpm and framed by an anti-glare binnacle, along with the dual TFT displays, are positioned coaxially with the multifunction steering wheel, asserting its identity as a Ferrari GT model.

With its 600 hp output, top speed of 320 km/h, retractable hardtop (RHT), spacious trunk, and two rear seats suitable for short trips, the new Portofino starts at ¥25.3 million.

Ferrari Portofino | The Ferrari Portofino
Body Dimensions | Length 4,586 × Width 1,938 × Height 1,318 mm
Wheelbase | 2,670 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,633 / 1,635 mm
Weight | 1,545 kg
Engine | 3,855cc 90-degree V8 Twin-Turbo
Max. Output | 600 ps (441 kW) / 7,500 rpm
Max. Torque | 760 Nm / 3,000-5,250 rpm
Compression Ratio | 9.45
Transmission | 7-speed DCT (F1 Dual Clutch)
Brakes Front | φ390 × 34 mm Carbon Ceramic Discs
Brakes Rear | φ360 × 32 mm Carbon Ceramic Discs
Tires Front/Rear | 245/35R20 / 285/35R20
Top Speed | Over 320 km/h
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 3.5 seconds
0-200 km/h Acceleration | 10.8 seconds
100-0 km/h Braking | 34 meters
Fuel Consumption (EU) | 10.7 L/100km (approx. 9.3 km/L)
CO2 Emissions | 245 g/km
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 liters
Weight Distribution Front/Rear | 46 : 54
Trunk Capacity | 292 liters
Price | ¥25.3 million