Powered by the Most Powerful V8 in History: 720ps

The Japan premiere began with the announcement: "Today, we introduce the 'Ferrari F8 Tributo,' the successor to the Ferrari 488GTB and an homage to Ferrari's most powerful V8 engine in history."

The car unveiled was the new F8 Tributo, dressed in a vibrant blue. Presenting the car was Mr. Wee Pin Lim, Head of Communications for Ferrari Greater China and Middle East.



"The 'F8 Tributo,' launching today, marks a new milestone for Ferrari's V8 models. The Ferrari V8 turbo engine it houses has won the International Engine of the Year award for three consecutive years since 2016, and in 2018, it was named the 'Best of the Best' among the best engines of the past 20 years. Ferrari's V8 engines have been acclaimed as the epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure," he began, introducing the new model's centerpiece: the engine.

The new 3,902cc, 90° V8 twin-turbo engine produces a maximum output of 720ps at 8,000rpm and a peak torque of 770Nm at 3,250rpm. This represents a 50ps increase over the previous 488 and is the most powerful V8 Ferrari engine ever.

This engine, boasting 185ps per liter (compared to 172ps for the 488GTB), delivers a thrilling exhaust note and virtually zero turbo lag, offering responsiveness comparable to a naturally aspirated engine.



Technically, relocating the air intake from the sides to the rear, positioning it on either side of the blown spoiler and directly connecting it to the intake plenum (available in red-painted aluminum or optional carbon fiber) allows for a significantly reduced loss and a larger volume of air to be delivered, enabling the power increase.

Thanks to titanium connecting rods, a lightweight and optimized crankshaft, and flywheel, a new "wall effect" program has been implemented. This causes the tachometer needle to instantly jump during rapid acceleration, and the rev limiter cuts off at the red zone of 8,000rpm, contributing to shorter lap times.

Furthermore, to produce Ferrari's unique sound, the entire exhaust system from the turbo to the tailpipe has been specially designed. This results in a 5dB increase in volume compared to the 488GTB in the mid-to-high RPM range. While clearly conveying the engine's sound to the driver in the cockpit as power increases, it also successfully complies with the newly introduced strict emission and noise regulations.

0-100km/h in 2.9 Seconds, Top Speed of 340km/h Achieved

Mr. Lim continued, "Various aerodynamic improvements have also been made. Notably, aerodynamic efficiency has been improved by 10% compared to the 488GTB, and engine thermal efficiency has also been enhanced. The increased cooling air intake accommodates the higher engine output," he commented on the aerodynamics.



He then explained the effects of features such as the improved "S-Duct" on the front axle that generates downforce, vortex generators that enhance downforce, the active aerodynamics rear diffuser that delivers maximum performance in both corners and straights, the front radiator layout derived from the 488 Challenge, and the rear blown spoiler, accompanied by video.

As a result, the F8 Tributo's performance allows its body (4,611mm length x 1,979mm width x 1,206mm height, dry weight 1,330kg - 40kg lighter than the 488GTB) to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 2.9 seconds (3.0 seconds for the 488GTB) and to 200km/h in 7.8 seconds (8.3 seconds), with a top speed of 340km/h. Its lap time at Ferrari's test track, Fiorano, is officially recorded at 1 minute 22.5 seconds.



"The most important elements of this car are maximized driving pleasure and usability. The steering wheel has been made smaller in diameter and completely redesigned to improve handling. Another element of evolution is the 'Side Slip Control (SSC) 6.1,' an evolution from version 6.0, which is an electronic control system that helps the driver extract the maximum performance from the car. Numerous revisions have also been made to the vehicle's weight, achieving a 40kg reduction compared to the 488GTB. Incorporating elements from Ferrari's legendary past models was also important, such as the rear Lexan window. This screen, covering the engine compartment, takes design cues from the most famous F40 in a modern interpretation," he commented on the new model's features.

Corner Exit Speed 6% Higher Than 488GTB

Specifically, the SSC 6.1 operates in the "RACE" (FDE+) position of the Manettino, providing significant benefits. Handling at the limit is improved, resulting in a 6% increase in corner exit speed compared to the 488GTB, delivering more manageable performance.



Furthermore, in the "CT-off" position during oversteer, the steering input required is reduced by 30% compared to the 488GTB. Drivers will feel an enhanced ability to hold the vehicle even without changes to their driving skill, fostering confidence during prolonged oversteer maneuvers.

The interior features a redesigned dashboard, door panels, and transmission tunnel, adopting a new generation HMI (Human Machine Interface). Circular air vents, switches, and the new 7-inch passenger touchscreen display are all designed to further strengthen the bond between the driver and the car.



Considering the meaning of its name, "Tributo" (Italian for tribute, meaning gratitude or respect), this new Ferrari F8 Tributo is rumored to be the last model to feature only an internal combustion V8 engine. Pricing and release date are yet to be determined.