The M in the Portofino M’s name stands for “Modificata”, a term commonly used on models that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance.
The evolution of the Ferrari Portofino, which was unveiled entirely online for the first time in Ferrari’s 70 year history, has been given more power with a reworked engine, new 8-speed gearbox and a 5-position Manettino which now includes a Race mode. It is the first time a Ferrari GT Spider has received such a feature.
The Portino M get its legs from a 3.9-litre twin turbocharged engine, the same V8 engine found in the new Roma which was voted the International Engine of the Year for four consecutive years.
The engine now however makes 620 hp, 20 more than the Ferrari Portofino although torque figures remain at 720 Nm. 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.4 seconds while 0 to 200 km/h will only require 9.8 seconds. Top speed is in excess of 320 km/h.
Ferrari says the Portofino M can deliver instantaneous acceleration, in line with its “Zero Turbo Lag” concept, through a Variable Boost Management system that adjusts torque output in accordance to the selected gear in its new 8-speed dual clutch gearbox.
The reworked front bumper of the Portofino M now features an air vent at the wheel arch to reduce overall drag. The new rear bumper that shelters a new exhaust system, comes with a diffuser that is completely separate to allow customers to specify it in carbon fibre. Topping off the exterior are 20-inch diamond-finished wheels designed specifically for the Portofino M.
Inside, the seats are supported by a magnesium structure with different density padding and an ultra-compact seatback profile that has resulted in more space for the rear passengers. They’re also available with three-level ventilation where the system constantly adapts the speed of the warm air flow from the headrest to ensure it is proportionate to the car’s speed and outside temperature.
The passenger has an optional dedicated capacitive display on the dashboard. It is directly linked to the main screen providing all information relating to car speed, rpm and gear engaged.
That’s not all; they can also select music, view the satellite navigation information, or select a new point of interest, such as a restaurant, which is then automatically integrated into the route.
For a grand tourer that’s expected to chew miles, safety is also of utmost priority in the Portofino M. It’s equipped with an Predictive Emergency Brake System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic High Beam, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Surround View display.
During the online press conference with Ferrari Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer, Enrico Galliera, he said prices for the Portofino M will start from 206,000 euros with deliveries of the first batch of left-hand drive models expected to take place in Q2 of 2021.
