The Testarossa by Ferrari Makes a Comeback, Now Featuring Electricity and Intensity | Carscoops

      The 849 Testarossa brings back a legendary badge with a twin-turbo V8 engine, three electric motors, and an electric vehicle range of 15.5 miles.

      Ferrari's 849 Testarossa takes the place of the SF90, featuring a 1,035 hp hybrid V8 along with triple electric motors.

      Aerodynamic enhancements provide 915 lbs of downforce at 155 mph through active aerodynamic features.

      This model comes in both coupe and spider variants, with the Assetto Fiorano package reducing weight by 66 lbs for improved handling.

      The Red Head is back, sporting sharper lines and significantly more power than its predecessor, which ceased production in 1996. The 849 Testarossa is Ferrari's newly introduced plug-in hybrid flagship, set to replace the SF90 Stradale and Spider. It will be available next year in coupe and convertible styles, combining a reworked twin-turbo V8 with three electric motors to produce 1,035 horsepower (772 kW).

      The recurring theme emphasizes that while this new vehicle closely resembles the SF90, it features extensive updates inside and out. The engine has received new cylinder heads, exhaust manifolds, and the largest turbos ever used in a production Ferrari. The combustion engine itself generates 819 horsepower (610 kW), with the electric motors contributing an additional 217 horsepower (160 kW).

      Performance Capabilities

      Two of the electric motors are positioned on the front axle to facilitate torque vectoring during turns. They can provide power up to 130 mph, while the third motor, located between the engine and gearbox, maintains full power beyond that speed. Notably, drivers wishing to operate the 849 Testarossa in EV mode will only have power to the front wheels and a speed limit of 80 mph. The car's 7.45 kWh battery pack allows for a range of up to 15 miles.

      Performance metrics are expected to surpass those of the SF90 XX Stradale, with the coupe capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in as little as 2.2 seconds. Additionally, it can reach 0-124 mph (200 km/h) in as little as 6.3 seconds. The Spider variant will be slightly slower due to its increased weight, and both models have a top speed exceeding 205 mph. An eight-speed dual-clutch F1 gearbox is the sole transmission option.

      A Name Rich in Heritage

      The Testarossa name has origins that predate the famed models of the 1980s and early 1990s. Ferrari’s race cars in the 1950s were often referred to as such due to their red valve covers. The name gained significance when it was assigned to the 1984 production vehicle. How does this new model fit into the legacy?

      “It is not because we are drawing inspiration from classic designs; we do not wish to merely look to the past,” stated Enrico Galliera, Ferrari’s chief marketing and commercial officer, in an interview with Road&Track. “The name Testa Rossa [which means 'redhead' in Italian] originally came from the engine cover of our most powerful model.”

      Although the F80 boasts greater power than the 849 Testarossa, it is considered a higher tier within Ferrari’s lineup. Therefore, the name remains appropriate even if primarily associated with the distinctive red valve covers. It certainly doesn’t earn its name by aiming to closely resemble the last model to carry the badge.

      Exterior Features

      In contrast to Lamborghini, which clearly modernized the Countach styling for a rebody of the Aventador, the 849 Testarossa shows little resemblance to its predecessor. Ferrari’s design team, led by Flavio Manzoni, infused elements from 1970s sports prototypes and aeronautics, resulting in sharp geometric lines.

      The outcome is similar to the SF90 and the SP3 Daytona, but with a touch of retro flair. The large side intakes are integrated into the doors, and the car’s cab-forward stance is inspired by what Ferrari calls a double-tail design influenced by the 512 S. The front fascia features styling reminiscent of 1980s Ferraris, with a bridge-like horizontal design connecting the headlights.

      Ultimately, while it bears similarities to the SF90, we won’t classify it as merely a facelift. It is a substantial update from all perspectives.

      Interior Enhancements

      The interior is also refreshed with an F80-inspired gear selector that resembles a miniature gated manual. The steering wheel retains physical controls instead of touch interfaces. A central sail divides the driver from the passenger, and digital displays relay critical information for the driver and potentially alarming data for the passenger. Buyers can opt for either comfort seats or racing seats.

      New Color Offerings

      Ferrari is introducing two new paint colors alongside this vehicle. The first is Rosso Fiammante, which modifies the matte