The latest track special from Maranello, the Ferrari 488 Pista, is a very special car indeed. Based on the 488 GTB, this model takes things to extremes. Weighing a shade over 3000lbs and with 710bhp on tap, you are guaranteed sensational performance.

Ferrari Chief Technical Officer, Michael Leiters, enthused about the Ferrari 488 Pista at the Geneva Motor Show, with particular emphasis on the sophisticated aerodynamics. One look at the front of the car tells you there is something unique going on here.

Ferrari has christened this development the ‘S-Duct’, and it is designed to channel air through the front of the car to enhance the level of downforce. It’s a clever concept, and one that is very much a key part of what makes the Ferrari 488 Pista so special.

Extra Power

The clever aero-treatment continues on the side of the car with ducts that direct air in a manner that is efficient to both downforce and cooling, and Leiters and his team have paid close attention to enhancing the thermal efficiency of the engine. The 3.9litre V8, with its twin-turbo boost, is a mighty powerplant that is difficult to match.

A rear diffuser, based on that developed for the 488 GTE racing car, means amazing levels of downforce, while active aerodynamic flaps help to keep the car stable at high speeds. Make no mistake this is a car that is designed for the thrill of driving, and nothing else.

Driving Emotion

While the power and handling of the Ferrari 488 Pista help it to lap the Fiorano test track in a similar time to the mighty 812 Superfast, it is the sheer enjoyment of driving that is the aim of this car.

Leiters makes no secret of the fact that driving emotion is the main aim, and points to the clever electronics that can be set to a driver’s personal preference as one of the most impressive developments here.

With go-kart like responses and handling that is second to none, the Ferrari 488 Pista is a genuine challenger to the very best of its rivals, and is made to be driven.

Images Copyright of Chris Perkins