Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
by Klaus
Weibler
The
Ferrari GTB 599 Fiorano, which is the successor of the 575M Maranello,
is named after the Fiorano circuit Ferrari uses to hone the performance
of its track and road cars and 599 to reflect the displacement of its 620
hp V12 which was developed from the engine that powered the Enzo supercar.
The stunning new all-aluminium front-engine two-seater that Ferrari unveiled
at the Geneva Motor Show 2006 delivers everything that this promises. This
new model demonstrates how cutting-edge research into weight distribution,
aerodynamics and performance-related systems, including the F1-Superfast
gear change and new F1-Trac traction control, both initially developed
for the Formula 1 single-seater) can be focused to create a spacious, comfortable
car capable of delivering performance levels scarcely imaginable a few
short years ago.
The
steering wheel-mounted manettino vehicle dynamics control switch, originally
developed for the 1996 Formula 1 season, has been further developed for
the new 599 GTB. The manettino integrates the stability and F1-Trac traction
control systems, the F1-Superfast sequential gearbox, the SCM (Magnetorheological
Suspension Control) fluid suspension and engine management unit which means
that the driver can instantly intervene on the car's dynamic behaviour.
The manettino enables the car settings to be changed to suit snowy or icy,
wet or low grip situations, too. The driver can also select the sport and
race settings. Its readouts are displayed on the new on-board Multi Display
unit which also incorporates lap times and trip computer readouts.
The
new Fiorano combines a front-mid engine layout with a sophisticated, beautifully
appointed cockpit awash with elegant yet sporty carbon-fibre and aluminium
detailing. However, it also hits 100 km/h in an astonishing 3.7 seconds
and can boast a top speed in excess of 330 km/h. But as well as towering
power and performance, the 599 offers the kind of accessible driving experience
that makes it as easy to drive in traffic as it is to take to the track
for a few hot laps. The 599 project set out to guarantee benchmark performance.
85% of the kerb weight is concentrated between the axles, with 47% over
the front axle and 53% over the rear. The centre of gravity is also 20
mm lower than the 575M Maranello and the bodyshell offers excellent torsional
rigidity despite the fact that the car is exceptionally light courtesy
of its all-aluminium chassis and bodywork. During the design phase maximum
attention was also paid to optimising cockpit space as well as the boot
capacity (320 litres), making it a great touring sports car.
Engine: 6L V12
Horsepower: 620 bhp
/ PS
Top Speed: 205 mph (330
km/h)
Peak torque: 608 Nm
(448 lb-ft)
Acceleration: 0-60
mph in 3.5 sec (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec)
Retail Price: starting at
Pounds 165,000 (Euro 214,000 / MSRP US$ 215,000)
Competing Models: "Competing
Segment" on right side of "Best Autos & Cars in the World" page
More information on: www.ferrari.it
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