Ferrari Portofino

Replacing the California T, the Portofino wasn’t merely an iteration; it was a revolution in design language. At the front, the car showcased a series of cleverly placed vents and air ducts. These design features played a significant role in maintaining optimal engine temperatures while ensuring downforce.

The real magic, however, was in its proportions. The elongated hood complemented the more compact rear, evoking that quintessential sports car silhouette. Unlike the California’s somewhat awkward rear-end, the Portofino perfected it. With its quad exhausts, integrated spoiler, and a rear diffuser, the back of the Portofino was a masterpiece in itself.

Inside the Portofino, you were greeted by an interior that managed to balance flamboyance and understated luxury. You’ll immediately notice the 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen that is the command center. Ferrari kept the interior clean by integrating most controls into the steering wheel. From the turn signals to the headlamp switch, it was all ergonomically within your reach. Adding to the immersive driving experience were optional LED shift lights on the steering wheel, a nod to Ferrari’s racing DNA. The optional side screen gave the passenger a front-row seat to the car’s performance stats.

At the heart of Portofino’s safety suite was Electronic Stability Control (ESC), meticulously engineered to keep the car’s raw power in check. This intelligent system continuously monitored numerous variables like wheel speed, steering angle, and throttle position to ensure that you’re always in control, even when pushing the car to its limits. The car also received other features such as the F1-Trac traction control and E-Diff electronic differential.

Then there was the highly advanced braking system—carbon-ceramic brakes that not only provided unparalleled stopping power but were also incredibly resistant to wear and fade. Coupled with Ferrari’s own ABS system, these brakes offered an incredible amount of control.

Nestled under that sweeping hood was a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8, churning out 592 horsepower and 760 Nm of torque. Remarkably, this powerhouse suffered from zero turbo lag, offering instantaneous power delivery whenever you demanded it.

The Portofino truly shone in its ride and handling. With the driving mode set to ‘comfort’, it glided over road imperfections as effortlessly as a luxury sedan. However, dial the switch to ‘sport’, and the adjustable suspension would firm up, and the exhaust note would deepen, turning your grand tourer into an out-and-out sports car.

The Portofino was priced at about Rs 3 Crore (ex-showroom).

The Portofino’s closest competitors were the Aston Martin DB11 Volante and the Bentley Continental GT Convertible.