A Deep Dive into Ferrari F80's Performance and Design

Earlier in October, McLaren introduced their new flagship hypercar, the W1, which received widespread praise. McLaren's legacy of excellence with their top models ensured the W1 was anticipated as a benchmark in performance and design, establishing a precedent few can match. Just weeks later, Ferrari responded with the unveiling of their own flagship, the F80. While it received admiration for its innovative design and engineering, some enthusiasts deemed it underwhelming.

Let's explore why the F80 deserves acclaim and has merely fallen victim to sky-high expectations.

Design: Short on Looks

When Ferrari unveiled its previous flagship model, the LaFerrari, it stood firmly against competitors like the McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder, excelling in both design and power. However, with the new F80, some enthusiasts feel it may fall short on looks.

The F80 draws inspiration from Ferrari's heritage, especially the 12 Cilindri, whose design was polarising. It carries the iconic black band across its front nose from that model, while the rear design borrows from the Daytona SP3, featuring a large diffuser, exhausts positioned just above it, and minimalist tail lights akin to the Ferrari Roma.

From the side, the F80 boasts a sleek, elongated profile with advanced aerodynamics—such as bold side skirts and prominent vents. It includes two-tone carbon fibre wheels, 20 inches in the front and 21 inches at the rear. The roof sits lower than the LaFerrari’s, taking cues from the 812 Superfast Competizione, while butterfly doors add an unmistakably Ferrari touch.

The interior of the F80 departs from traditional road-legal Ferrari designs, drawing heavily from Le Mans models. The passenger seat is fixed, blending into the bodywork, while the infotainment system and other features retain the Ferrari styling seen in models like the SF90 and Purosangue.

Power: 0-62 mph in 2.1 seconds

Ferrari’s choice of a V6 engine has sparked debate, given past anniversary models like the F40 and F50 used naturally aspirated V12s. Although some critics preferred a V12 or V8, Ferrari’s 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6—also featured in the 296 GTB—is a powerhouse. Producing 900 hp independently and a total of 1,200 hp with assistance from four electric motors, it reaches 9,200 rpm with 1,075 Nm of torque, delivering all-wheel drive. This setup propels the F80 from 0-62 mph in 2.1 seconds, achieving a top speed of 217 mph. While the F80 edges out the McLaren W1 off the line, the W1 overtakes it at top-end speeds.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

While the F80 is undoubtedly focused on delivering peak performance, Ferrari has ensured it doesn’t compromise on safety or driver assistance. This high-performance car is equipped with advanced features like automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps, all of which provide an added layer of security and convenience.

Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking, offering timely intervention in critical moments.
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, ensuring you stay on track during your drives.
Standard adaptive cruise control, enhancing long-distance comfort by adjusting to traffic flow.

Weight: Remarkably Light

With a dry weight of 1,525 kg, the F80 is remarkably light given its electric components, tipping the scales at around 1,625 kg with fluids. Ferrari achieved this by using a carbon fibre monocoque and a driver-focused interior, complemented by lightweight Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes.

Price: Already Sold out

Limited to just 799 units, the Ferrari F80 has a starting price of £3,000,000 (approximately R67,900,000). Unfortunately, if you have that kind of money at your disposal and are looking for Ferrari’s finest creation, you'll be disappointed—every unit has already sold out. These exclusive cars were offered to Ferrari’s “special customers” and quickly snapped up.

Final Thoughts

The Ferrari F80 stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy of innovation and performance, despite facing scrutiny over its design and engine choice. With its impressive powertrain, cutting-edge technology, and limited availability, the F80 reaffirms Ferrari's position at the pinnacle of the hypercar segment. Competing closely with the McLaren W1, which has also garnered attention for its striking performance and design, the F80 embodies a remarkable blend of heritage and future-forward engineering, solidifying its status as a coveted collector’s item.