What’s New For 2018?
The 2018 Ferrari Portofino is the newest supercar in the company’s enviable stable, replacing the best-selling Ferrari of all time, the California.
What We Like
Ferrari styling; can actually perform as a livable daily driver; improved infotainment; addresses the few flaws in the previous California
What We Don’t
By Ferrari standards, performance is good, but not great; limited production; very expensive
Overview
The 2018 Ferrari Portofino is the newest car to join the legendary Italian automaker’s lineup, replacing the beloved Ferrari California. No small task, as the California was not only the best-selling Ferrari of all time, it was also considered a game changer, luring in first-time buyers who had never even considered a Ferrari in their future.
Built from an entirely new frame, the Portofino makes a number of necessary improvements in the areas of comfort, performance and technology. Inside, the tiny rear seat is a bit less tiny, with more legroom for occupants — although in truth the seat is still only fit for children. The stylish exterior retains the California’s retractable hardtop, only now with a more efficient use of storage space and the ability to be raised or lowered at speeds of up to 25 mph. The Portofino is stiffer, lighter and faster than the California, all good things when it comes to building a supercar. A one-piece exhaust header, for example, improves throttle response and enhances the exhaust note, while stiffer springs and adaptive dampers improve ride and handling. Inside, the Portofino’s handsome interior borrows heavily from other Ferraris, most notably the large 10.3-inch touchscreen that displays readouts for performance, navigation and infotainment.
Under the hood, the Portofino employs a 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 developing 592 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque. Power is handled by a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and when left to its own devices, the Portofino’s powertrain can move this stunning machine from zero to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 mph.
As for pricing, the 2018 Ferrari Portofino is as expensive as you might expect, starting around $210,000 before options. As with all Ferraris, there’s already a waiting list for the Portofino. If you really want one, best hope you’re either really wealthy or really well-connected, or both.
