The Bite Magazine - Spring 2019 - Issue 24

bite cars The aim of the convertible’s dynamic development was to produce a car that offers a high mechanical performance in terms of lap times and standing starts, driving pleasure and accessibility of performance to drivers of all types. Through this, the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) helps to provide a seamless combination of superb acceleration, braking effi- ciency, steering precision, grip, stability and handling for im- mersive driving experience. Driving Capacity Just like the coupe, the 488 Pista Spider convertible is equipped with the most powerful V8 engine ever made by Ferrari with an unprecedented weight-power ratio of 1.92 kg/cv. Taking on the numerous solutions of the 488 Chal- lenge, the first model to be powered with a turbo engine, the newV8 engine in the Pista has an increased power input of 720 cv at 8,000 rpm and accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 211 mph. Voted ‘Engine of the Year’ for three consecutive years in 2016, 2017 and 2018, the V8 engine sets the benchmark in terms of its characteristics and performance, not just for new generation turbo engines but for all engines, including natu- rally aspirated ones. It delivers the highest power increase from the model it was developed from – the 488 Spider, and therefore has a greater capacity over its overall and specific power outputs. When you hear the engine, you will find that the sound is unique and unmistakable, as befitting a special series car. Not only this but the sound level is higher than the 488 Spider in all gears and at all engine speeds. Owners of the retractable hard top version will appreciate this more than those with the coupe version as the new Inconel exhaust manifolds and optimises exhaust bypass logic which contributes to the su- perior quality and intensity. Thanks to the radiators being raked rearwards rather than forwards as in the 488 GTB, the inverted radiator cooling system is much more improved and thus maintains optimal performance levels even in high thermal stress situations. The car’s aerodynamics are derived from both the 488 GTE and Formula 1, specially the S-Duct at its front, the rear spoiler and diffuser profiles which boost efficiency by 20% compared to the 488 GTB. To give drivers a unique experience and full potential on the road, a new oversteer management system used in the CT- OFF position was developed to make the car’s performance on the limit easier to reach and control. The new gear-shift strategy in the RACE control position delivers a far more sporty experience, which is similar to those of a track car. Thus it offers drivers of all abilities an exceptional and exhil- arating experience. Interior Inside the cockpit, you will find that the interior has a distinc- tive racing feel with all the superfluous elements eliminated. Thanks to the Italian marque’s continued use of lightweight materials, the carbon fibre and Alcantara works in harmony with the meticulous crafting and sophistication that is the signature of all Ferrari cockpits. These include the contrast- ing hand-stitching, tread plates and heel rests in triangular patterned aluminium. The driver zone has been enhanced by two newly-devel- oped all-carbon fibre instrument clusters around the main instrument panel (optional content). While the glove com- partment, usually found in the dashboard directly in front of the passenger, has been removed and replaced by hand storage pockets on the rear bench and the doors. This has been done to significantly visually slim down the volume of the under-dash area. Exterior To ensure that both the 488 Pista and 488 Pista Spider are more performance-oriented than ever before, their forms had to be meticulously sculpted by the Ferrari Design Centre team. Using the aerodynamic S-Duct at the front, they were able to shorten the car’s nose and create an original floating wing. The black, omega-shaped edging on the front bumpers and side flicks reference the prominent aerodynamic under- body motif of the 488 GTE. On both the coupe and convertible, the aerodynamic pro- files that start at the front bumpers run sleekly along the side miniskirts all the way to the side appendage of the rear diffuser. The concept of the front is echoed in the dolphin-tail rear spoiler which appears suspended to provide an impres- sion of lightness and efficiency, while the rear volumes add a sense of power to the tail. The exterior sections of the bumper ahead of the wheels