The original Ferrari Testarossa was an undoubted icon of the 1980s, but this legendary nameplate is set to make a return for the 21st century.
This week, Ferrari lifted the covers on the 849 Testarossa, which is set to be offered in both coupe and convertible (‘Spider’) configurations.
Positioned as a replacement for the SF90 in the Prancing Horse lineup, this new Testarossa features a 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 paired to three electric motors and an all-wheel drive system.
While this may be a far cry from the original’s glorious 4.9-litre flat-12, this state-of-the-art powertrain serves up an immense 772kW (1035hp) and should keep those disappointed by the likes of the 296 and upcoming F80 using a V6 at least a bit happier.
Thanks to a 7.45kWh lithium-ion battery, the 849 Testarossa can cover up to 25km in pure electric mode alone, making it a bit more civilised in traffic.
However, that V8 mounted behind the cockpit has been re-engineered to have a nicer low-mid range sound and to be louder across the rev range. In Ferrari’s own words, it “has been optimised to ensure a recognisable acoustic signature in all driving conditions, while preserving the distinctive harmonics of Ferrari’s V8”.
It also inherits updated shift logic from the SF90 XX Stradale to generate an even more exciting sound during upshifts, while ‘longitudinal acceleration’ has been improved in third gear from 5500rpm onwards towards the 8300rpm redline.
The 849 Testarossa’s chassis dynamics have also been improved compared with the SF90. Lateral performance has been increased by three percent thanks to new tyres and suspension geometry, a 10 percent reduction in the body roll gradient, and a 35 percent reduction in the weight of the suspension springs themselves. Shock absorber damping has also been revised.
Both versions claim a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 2.3 seconds, although the coupe is slightly quicker beyond that, covering 0-200km/h in 6.35 seconds versus 6.5 seconds for the Spider. Top speed is claimed in excess of 330km/h.
Those looking for even more aggressive performance and handling can opt for the ‘Assetto Fiorano’ package, which cuts weight by 30kg using lighter seats and carbon fibre wheels, along with adding a stiffer suspension setup.
Design of the 849 Testarossa was led by Flavio Manzoni at the Ferrari Styling Centre. Although it lacks the iconic side strakes, the door design does still include an aerodynamic duct.
The front fascia is claimed to feature “structured volumes that recall Ferrari geometries from the 1980s”, although it does remain in keeping with the recognisable look of the 12Cilindri and F80.
There are several nods to the various versions of the original Testarossa, including a double tail design inspired by the 512 S which, integrated with the active wing, compose a patented aerodynamic solution.
The flagship 849 Testarossa Spider features a power-folding hardtop which can be retracted in 14 seconds at speeds up to 45km/h, and cabin volume has been intended to remain as quiet as the coupe model.
Pricing starts at €460,000 (approximately A$813,700) for the coupe version before stepping up to €500,000 (A$884,455) for the Spider. Those looking to option the Assetto Fiorano package will need to shell out €52,500 (A$92,870).
