The Italian coastline is consistently one of the top places to visit for holiday-goers, as the vibrant culture, relaxed vibe and breathtaking scenery is the stuff to make you forget about your life back home. With that, it’s little wonder why Ferrari have named their latest model after a small coastal town on the Italian Riviera, as the aesthetics of this new hardtop convertible rival any Italian seaside view, and the ride will make you want to take the long way home.

Labelled as an entry-level model, the new Ferrari Portofino is set to replace the California model, a mainstay in the Ferrari line-up since 2009. From what’s been revealed of the Portofino so far, there won’t be many too upset about the changing of the guard.

Screen Shot 2017-10-17 at 1.54.28 am.png

Ferrari have armed their new creation with a 3.9L V8 turbocharged engine, capable of a 3.5sec 0-100km time and a top speed of 320km/h. With a new intake system, redesigned pistons and connecting rods, improved exhaust system and new engine management system, the Portofino is set to be a potential heavyweight within the convertible division.

Screen Shot 2017-10-17 at 1.55.56 am.png

While a heavyweight contender, the Portofino has shredded down, dropping 80kg in comparison to the California. This comes from Ferrari taking steps to reduce the number of parts used to create their machines for simplicity and rigidity. The improved chassis is an example, with 40% less parts, and a 35% rigidity improvement, compared to the last California model. Ferrari aims to carry this thinking and technology over to all future models, which will no doubt have an impact on the final price tag, a definite win for consumers.

Screen Shot 2017-10-17 at 1.56.17 am.png

Another win for consumers come with the latest inclusions for the Portofino. It is the first Ferrari GT model to include Electronic Power Steering, and has major improvements to the magnetorheological damping system and the electronic rear differential, keeping the drive smooth and the suspension adaptable.

Screen Shot 2017-10-17 at 1.56.36 am.png

The 46:54 front/back weight division helps the overall look of the Portofino, making it arguably one of the best looking cars of 2017. Inside, the Portofino is as extravagant as you’d expect from Ferrari, with the dashboard, seats, lining and displays all top of the line materials and makes. The Portofino comes with a 10.2inch infotainment unit, with an optional LCD display in front of the passenger available, should you trust your co-pilot with the music and other comforts. Ferrari have also fitted 18way adjustable front seats, which include adjustable seat cushions, for comfort and support on those long drives. The rear seats have also been improved since the California, although you’d think twice before jumping in the back for a road-trip. 

Screen Shot 2017-10-17 at 2.15.15 am.png

Whichever way you look at it, you can’t help but not be excited by the Portofino. The tantalising looks, the powerful engine and the new technology all point towards a powerhouse, something that Ferrari will no doubt deliver in spades.