Why Has Ferrari Revived the Testarossa Name for Its New Supercar?
If you’ve been following Ferrari’s history, the Testarossa name probably sparks a bit of nostalgia. It’s a badge that conjures images of 1980s excess, pop culture cameos, and, of course, that iconic side strake design. But Ferrari’s decision to bring back the Testarossa name for its latest flagship isn’t just a nod to the past. Instead, it’s a bold statement about the future of performance and innovation.
The new Ferrari 849 Testarossa replaces the SF90 Stradale as the brand’s most powerful series-production model. With a staggering 1035bhp under its sculpted hood, it’s not just about raw numbers—it’s about pushing boundaries. Deliveries for the coupe are set for next spring, with the Spider variant following in the autumn. The move signals Ferrari’s intent to blend heritage with cutting-edge technology, creating a supercar that’s as forward-thinking as it is evocative.
How Does the 849 Testarossa Stack Up on Performance?
Let’s get straight to the numbers, because they’re jaw-dropping. The 849 Testarossa rockets from 0 to 62mph in just 2.35 seconds and can surge past 205mph. On Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, it laps in 1 minute 17.5 seconds—1.2 seconds quicker than the SF90 Stradale and only a hair’s breadth behind the ultra-exclusive SF90 XX Stradale.
What’s behind this leap in performance? It’s not just about adding more power. Ferrari’s engineers have fine-tuned aerodynamics, chassis electronics, and weight distribution. The optional Assetto Fiorano pack, available from launch, shaves 30kg off the car’s already impressive 1570kg dry weight and brings track-focused upgrades to suspension, tires, and bodywork. For context, that’s the same dry weight as the outgoing SF90, despite the new car’s more complex body and driveline.
What’s New in the Design and Aerodynamics?
Ferrari didn’t just slap a legendary badge on a facelifted model and call it a day. The 849 Testarossa is a radical departure in terms of styling. Up front, you’ll spot a bold, full-width graphic reminiscent of Ferrari’s latest design language, as seen on the F80 and 12Cilindri. At the rear, twin spoilers pay homage to the brand’s prototype racers from the early 1970s.
Chief designer Flavio Manzoni emphasized that this isn’t a retro pastiche. The car’s sharp geometric forms and dramatic side intake vents—integrated into the doors and feeding massive intercoolers—are all about function and modernity. Those aluminum door panels? They took two years to perfect, highlighting the lengths Ferrari went to for both aesthetics and performance.
Aerodynamically, the 849 Testarossa is a marvel. It’s 8mm longer than the SF90 Stradale and generates 25% more downforce at 150mph, thanks to a combination of underbody outwash, a new diffuser, and those signature spoilers. The result? Greater stability and grip at high speeds, which translates directly to faster lap times and more confidence for the driver.
What’s Under the Hood: Hybrid Powertrain and Mechanical Innovations
Ferrari has stuck with the proven plug-in hybrid formula from the SF90, but with some serious upgrades. The heart of the beast is a 3990cc twin-turbocharged V8, paired with two electric motors on the front axle and a third between the engine and the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The V8 alone produces 818bhp and 621lb-ft of torque. The electric motors add up to 217bhp at any given moment, limited by the 7.5kWh battery (which also gives you around 18 miles of pure electric range). The combined output? A monstrous 1035bhp.
How did Ferrari squeeze out those extra horses? Larger fixed-geometry turbochargers with low-friction bearings (borrowed from the F80), an innovative heat shield inspired by the 296 GT3 endurance racer, and a host of tweaks to the cylinder heads, exhaust, intake, and valvetrain. Even the crankshaft is lighter, and titanium screws are used throughout to shave precious grams.
The exhaust system is 10% longer, with larger ducts to enhance the engine’s soundtrack. And for those who care about the numbers, the redline now sits at a thrilling 8300rpm.
How Does the 849 Testarossa Handle and Stop?
Power is nothing without control, and Ferrari has left nothing to chance here. The brake system features larger carbon-ceramic discs and new Brembo calipers, offering more feedback and consistency. Regenerative braking has been recalibrated, blending seamlessly with the physical brakes and allowing the car to stop one meter sooner from 62mph than its predecessor.
The gearbox has also been refined, drawing on software from the 296 GTB for lightning-fast shifts. An electronically controlled limited-slip differential, informed by Ferrari’s Slip Slide Control system (now at version 9.0), ensures power is delivered precisely where it’s needed.
But the real game-changer is the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (Five), introduced on the F80. This advanced system creates a real-time digital twin of the car’s dynamics, predicting speed, yaw, and more with incredible accuracy. The result? The car’s ABS, stability control, and torque-vectoring systems can react in milliseconds, making the car not just faster, but easier and more intuitive to drive at the limit.
What About the Assetto Fiorano Pack—Is It Worth It?
For those who crave the ultimate track experience, the Assetto Fiorano pack is a must-have. Yes, it’s pricey (adding €52,500 to the bill), but it transforms the 849 Testarossa into a true circuit weapon. You get lightweight tubular bucket seats (saving 18kg), carbon fiber wheels, and single-rate Multimatic dampers that offer razor-sharp control on the track.
Aerodynamic tweaks include wing-boxes inspired by the Enzo FXX, larger front flicks, and extra vortex generators. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires complete the package, delivering grip that borders on the surreal. While the ride can be firm on the road, on the track, the difference is night and day.
How Does the 849 Testarossa Compare to Its Rivals?
With a starting price of €460,000 for the coupe and €500,000 for the Spider, the 849 Testarossa commands a significant premium over the SF90 Stradale’s launch price back in 2019. But it’s right in line with its closest competitor, the Lamborghini Revuelto. For those shopping in this rarefied segment, the choice will likely come down to brand loyalty and driving experience, but Ferrari’s blend of hybrid technology, performance, and design innovation is hard to ignore.
Is There an Even Hotter XX Version on the Horizon?
Ferrari hasn’t confirmed whether an XX version of the 849 Testarossa is in the works, as it did with the SF90 Stradale. But for most drivers, the Assetto Fiorano package will more than scratch that track-day itch. Still, given Ferrari’s history of pushing the envelope, it wouldn’t be surprising to see an even more extreme variant down the line.
What’s the Real-World Takeaway for Enthusiasts?
The Ferrari 849 Testarossa isn’t just another supercar—it’s a statement. By reviving a legendary name and infusing it with the latest hybrid tech, Ferrari is showing that performance and innovation can go hand in hand. Whether you’re a die-hard collector, a track-day enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates automotive artistry, the 849 Testarossa is a reminder that the magic of Maranello is alive and well.
And if you’re lucky enough to see one in the wild—or even get behind the wheel—expect an experience that’s as exhilarating as it is unforgettable. The legend, it seems, is just getting started again.