While Ferrari continues to maintain the pinnacle location in the automotive market for its sleek and sporty designs, dynamic driving performance, impressive power and high priced and highly sought after models, there is one new model being offered that’s affordable; relatively speaking. In the past, the affordable Ferrari was the California which was dubbed as being too light on power but once the team added a pair of turbochargers to the engine this car was right where it should be. Now, we have a new car that will occupy the space that will be vacated by the California T model.

The Bargain Mode

If I told you that you could purchase a new Ferrari for just a little over $200,000 you’d be shocked at the low price, but that’s the case with the outgoing California T and now with the new Portofino. Named after one of the most picturesque ports in Italy this new model is built to be sensuous and impressive while being the front-engine powered Ferrari you’re going to want to drive. Even though this car will be the entry level for Ferrari, most of the world still won’t be able to spend the amount of money it takes to own it.
Under the hood, the new Portofino takes the engine development from the California T and improves the power from 552 horsepower to 591. This is the result of new pistons and connecting rods, a new intake system design a new single-piece cast exhaust header, software changes and new variable turbo boost management. The torque number remains unchanged at 560 lb.-ft. and the engine will use a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission to take care of the quick shifting that’s needed to get the job done on the road and on the track.
With this tuned-up engine, the new Portofino is able to complete the run to sixty mph in only 3.5 seconds and it handles extremely well. The new third-generation electronic rear differential integrated with F1-Trac, which is the traction control system, are present to make sure you can take this car and carve up the corners with ease. The steering system has been replaced with an electric model which is able to respond to inputs more accurately and faster than the outgoing hydraulic system was cable of doing when it was in the California T.

The Look

When you look at the new Ferrari Portofino, you’re going to notice a color that’s deeper and a bit different than the Ferrari Red that’s been around for ages. This new red is certainly attractive in the GT shape of this car that has the style and looks you’re going to admire. Drop the top and see the leather interior that offers a combination of racing and comfort on the inside. This makes perfect sense because the Portofino is a car that’s built to be on the roads just as often as it’s expected to be on the track.
Is the new Ferrari Portofino the right car for you? It certainly could be. If you’re shopping in this price range you might not think about Ferrari as a name that you would consider, but this front-engine convertible is gorgeous in its Rosso Portofino color and with the performance aspects you want. This is certainly a car that you can consider for the drive you want to enjoy on the road and at the track. Check out the sleek style and the impressive feel of this amazing car that is considered to be the affordable Ferrari.