Ferrari Portofino

The Portofino might be the entry-level Ferrari but there’s nothing entry level about its 600hp power figure. With seating for four and a foldable hardtop, the Ferrari Portofino is quite the versatile GT.

The Portofino might be the entry-level Ferrari but there’s nothing entry level about its 600hp power figure. With sea...

The Portofino might be the entry-level Ferrari but there’s nothing entry level about its 600hp power figure. With seating for four and a foldable hardtop, the Ferrari Portofino is quite the versatile GT.

Where its predecessor, the California, had its frumpy angles, the curvaceous Ferrari Portofino is just gorgeous. Its cabin is sporty, as you’d expect, but also stands out for being relatively easy to get into and easy to see out of. Rear passengers, however, don’t have it as good, as the space here is just enough for kids. The Portofino’s metal roof folds/unfolds in 14sec, but with the roof down, there’s little luggage room. Do note, you’ll have to spend big to bring your Ferrari Portofino up to spec – many basics are available only as expensive paid options.
The Portofino is just as fast as you’d expect from something with the prancing horse logo on it. 0-100kph takes a claimed 3.5sec! The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine sounds bassy, feels decidedly un-turbo-like in its responses, and revs heartily too. You can fine-tune the driving experience at the turn of the Manettino dial on the steering. At its sportiest, the Portofino is properly thrilling in the corners. The steering, however, is a bit too quick in all modes and that calls for care in everyday driving. Ride comfort on the optional-but-recommended adaptive dampers is decent.

Where its predecessor, the California, had its frumpy angles, the curvaceous Ferrari Portofino is just gorgeous. Its ...

Where its predecessor, the California, had its frumpy angles, the curvaceous Ferrari Portofino is just gorgeous. Its cabin is sporty, as you’d expect, but also stands out for being relatively easy to get into and easy to see out of. Rear passengers, however, don’t have it as good, as the space here is just enough for kids. The Portofino’s metal roof folds/unfolds in 14sec, but with the roof down, there’s little luggage room. Do note, you’ll have to spend big to bring your Ferrari Portofino up to spec – many basics are available only as expensive paid options.
The Portofino is just as fast as you’d expect from something with the prancing horse logo on it. 0-100kph takes a claimed 3.5sec! The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine sounds bassy, feels decidedly un-turbo-like in its responses, and revs heartily too. You can fine-tune the driving experience at the turn of the Manettino dial on the steering. At its sportiest, the Portofino is properly thrilling in the corners. The steering, however, is a bit too quick in all modes and that calls for care in everyday driving. Ride comfort on the optional-but-recommended adaptive dampers is decent.