Ferrari F8 Tributo revealed with 710bhp V8 engine

This is the new Ferrari F8 Tributo, a 710bhp thoroughbred that replaces the 488 GTB. It’s powered by a 3.9-litre V8 engine, offering 40bhp more than the model it supersedes. Ferrari says the design of the F8 Tributo is inspired by classic models like the F40 and the 308 GTB. Order books will open soon after the car’s recent debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

The engine is undoubtedly the centrepiece of this new model. It produces an astonishing 710bhp from a relatively small size and has almost as much horsepower-per-litre as a Bugatti Chiron. Ferrari says it’s the most powerful V8 engine ever fitted to a non-special series car (the limited-run 488 Pista produced the same figure). On a dry surface, the F8 Tributo will scorch from a standstill to 62mph in just 2.9 seconds. Ferrari even named the new car after the engine that powers it.

Geneva Motor Show preview

Most turbocharged engines suffer from lag when you put your foot down, as the turbo starts working. The twin-turbocharged engine in the F8 Tributo suffers from such little lag that it’s essentially imperceptible, meaning blistering performance at all speeds. The car is also 40kg lighter than the Ferrari 488 GTB, and has a new version of the company’s Side Slip Angle Control function, which is said to make the car easier to drive on the limit.

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Despite the incredible power on offer, Ferrari says many drivers will be able to access all the car’s performance; you shouldn’t need a racing license to get the most out of it. It should feel more agile than the 488 GTB, thanks in part to a smaller steering wheel.

The Ferrari F8 Tributo does look similar to the 488 GTB from some angles, but it’s clear that this is a new interpretation of the classic two-seat supercar layout. There’s a new version of the S-duct aerodynamic feature on the bonnet - said to produce 15% more downforce on its own - while the slimmer LED headlight units mean there’s space for small vents to cool the brakes. This innovation meant Ferrari didn’t have to fit bigger brakes, which would have impacted the weight (and therefore the acceleration and handling) of the car.

At the rear, Ferrari has reverted back to twin tail-lights, a touch that pays homage to the 308 GTB of the mid-1970s. The integrated spoiler wraps around them, while there’s a redesigned exhaust system and diffuser in the rear bumper. The engine cover is crafted out of Lexan polycarbonate plastic, which is lighter and more impact-resistant than glass.

Inside, the dashboard and door panels are completely new, although the slightly strange placement of buttons from the 488 GTB remains. The steering wheel is festooned with everything from the engine start/stop button and suspension settings, to the indicators and windscreen wiper controls. A screen sits each side of the rev counter, and there’s a new seven-inch screen in front of the passenger.

Prices and an official release date haven’t been revealed yet, but the F8 Tributo is likely to cost around £200,000 and should be on sale shortly after the Geneva Motor Show. Expect the price tag to increase dramatically once the car has options fitted.

Read more about the Ferrari range here, or check out our favourite supercars.