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The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has a racing livery that runs the entire length of the car

The new Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider combines the finest race-developed technological solutions with the joy of en plein air driving. To deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel. The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider benefits from the greatest technological transfer from the track of any road-legal open-top car.

The 50th drop-top model to be introduced by Ferrari is also the most powerful series production spider in Ferrari history. With an unprecedented weight/power ratio of 1.92 kg/cv.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider benefited from the extensive development work done to produce the Ferrari 488 Pista

The model’s engine, dynamics and aerodynamics are derived from two track cars: the 488 Challenge and the 488 GTE. The latter won the GT class of the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2017. Thus giving Ferrari a total of five GT Manufacturers’ titles since the championship’s inception in 2012. Furthermore, this model has very clearly benefited from the extensive development work done to produce the the 488 Pista.
 
For sure, the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider sports the most powerful V8 engine in Maranello history. Which was also named Best Engine for the third consecutive year at the 2018 International Engine of the Year Awards. The 3902cc twin-turbo V8 unleashes 720 cv (50 cv more than the 488 Spider). With torque calibrated to deliver a feeling of constant, ever-increasing acceleration.

The engine won the special “Best of the Best” title

The engine won the “Best of the Best” title. As the top engine of all the winners of the last 20 years. Its performance figures are the highest of any spider ever built by the Prancing Horse. Including 0-100 km/h acceleration in 2.85 seconds and a lap time at Fiorano of just 1’21’’5.

The soundtrack of the new Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

The 488 Pista Spider’s target client is a typical diehard Ferrarista who already owns other Ferrari spiders. These are drivers that want to feel all the power and speed the 488 Pista Spider is capable of. Yet also enjoy drop-top driving and the soundtrack of that unparalleled engine. But the innovations are not confined merely to a boost in power output. They also extend to an overall reduction in weight and beyond. In fact, the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider delivers even better handling. Making it one of the most enthralling models Ferrari has ever produced. Thanks also to multiple innovations in various different areas.

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The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is extremely efficient in dealing with rapid changes of direction.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider can unleash 720 cv at 8,000 rpm

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider can unleash 720 cv – 50 cv more than the 488 Spider. And 115 cv more than the previous special version. In terms of its characteristics and performance, the 488 Pista Spider’s engine sets the benchmark. Not just for new generation turbo engines but all engines, including naturally aspirated ones.

This is why it was voted “Engine of the Year” for three years running: 2016, 2017 and 2018. It is also the most powerful V8 ever sported by a road-going Ferrari. In terms of both its overall and specific power outputs. It also delivers the highest power increase over the model it was developed from, the 488 Spider.

Maximum torque is higher at all engine speeds

Performance figures of the car are exceptional and set it at the very top of its segment. The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider can unleash 720 cv at 8,000 rpm. 50 cv more than the 488 Spider and 115 cv more than the previous special version. Its specific power output has been upped to a best-in-class 185 cv/l. Maximum torque is higher at all engine speeds. Peaking at 770 Nm (10 Nm more than the 488 Spider) and is available from 3,000 rpm.

The engine intake layout of the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider was developed for the Ferrari 488 Challenge

These results were achieved thanks to the new engine intake layout developed for the 488 Challenge. With the intakes moved from the flanks to the rear spoiler area. Ensuring a higher volume and cleaner flow of air to the engine, thereby contributing to the increase in power. Moving the air intakes to the rear also freed up space for a larger intercooler ahead of the rear wheels.

This solution drastically reduces fluid-dynamic load losses. And ensures a higher volume and cleaner flow of air to the engine, thereby contributing to the increase in power.

In total, 18 kg was slashed off the weight of the engine alone

Weight was reduced by adopting evolved components. Such as Inconel exhaust manifolds, a lighter crankshaft and flywheel, and titanium con-rods, all using F1-derived technologies. In total, 18 kg was slashed off the weight of the engine alone.

Driving the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider on the limit

The 488 Challenge also provides the turbos with integrated rev sensors. Response times are instantaneous and even faster than the 488 Spider, thanks to a new specifically-developed control strategy. A new pedal map also makes driving on the limit even easier. Specific valves and springs combined with a new cam profile also contributed to the engine’s power boost. The cylinder liners are thinner too.

These significant upgrades are completed by the geometry of the new exhaust manifolds. Not forgetting either the carbon-fibre intake plenums, which have become one of the signatures of Ferrari’s special series cars.

Many solutions derived directly from Formula 1

All the structural components were modified to deal with the engine’s power boost. The pistons and cylinder heads have been strengthened to cope with the higher loads. Parallel to this, particular attention was also focused on reducing internal friction. By introducing, for example, solutions derived directly from Formula 1.

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The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has a racing livery that runs the entire length of the car

The engine of the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider revs even more quickly

Without no doubt, the engine’s sound is unique and unmistakable. As befits a special series car. In fact, the sound level is higher than the 488 Spider in all gears and at all engine speeds. The retractable hard top also makes all of this easier for occupants to appreciate than in the coupé version. The new Inconel exhaust manifolds and optimised exhaust bypass logic contribute to the superior quality and the intensity.

All these solutions contribute to the engine’s lower inertia. Allowing it to rev even more quickly. So much so that the driver can see the rev counter needle flying particularly in rapid transitions. Such as gear shifting and scorching low-gear acceleration.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider drivers enjoy the very fullest potential of their car

Aside from boosting power, the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider’s engine also makes the car’s handling more intuitive. And its powerful, razor-sharp performance available to all drivers in all driving situations, both on the road and the track. A slew of high performance features have been introduced. To allow drivers to exploit to the very fullest the potential afforded the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider’s engine.

A new boost control strategy optimises response time and performance in sporty driving on the limit. Making all the power the driver asks from the throttle available virtually instantaneously.

The rev limiter’s “Wall Effect”

The rev limiter’s “Wall Effect” strategy is another leap forward in terms of extreme engine performance. Rather than gradually limiting the revs towards the limiter, it cuts off right at the red-line of 8,000 rpm. Maximising the amount of power available in power-on dynamic driving situations.

Transmission in the new Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

The sporty driving feedback is further enhanced by the high-performance gear shifting, typical of a thoroughbred race car. The new gear shift strategy, available in the manettino’s RACE position, reduces shifting times by 30 ms. Also adopted once again on this model is the hugely successful Ferrari Variable Torque Management strategy for all gears. To adapt it to the car’s extreme sporty spirit, all of the torque curves were redesigned. To deliver a feeling of consistently smooth, powerful acceleration all the way to the red line.

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is extremely efficient in dealing with rapid changes of direction

The aim of the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider’s dynamic development was to produce a car that offers high mechanical performance. In terms of lap times and standing starts, driving pleasure and accessibility of performance to drivers of all types. The vehicle dynamics developed for this drop-top V8 special series car thus offer a seamless combination of superb acceleration. Further braking efficiency, steering precision, grip, stability and handling that produces an unparalleled and genuinely immersive driving experience.

This is thanks in part to the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE). Which makes controlling the lateral dynamics in high performance situations more intuitive, controllable and predictable.

The new Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres

To achieve these objectives, Ferrari’s engineers had to work on several fronts. Starting with lightweight solutions as well as evolving both a new generation of the Side Slip Control System (SSC 6.0). Improving the efficiency of the braking system and the introduction of new Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres.

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The car’s technical performance figures are exceptional and set it at the very top of its segment.

The Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE)

As was the case in the 488 Pista, the Spider features a lateral dynamics control system. That system uses Ferrari software to adjust the brake pressure at the callipers. The Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) is available when the manettino is in the “CT-OFF” position. It regulates the lateral dynamics parameters, including side slip angle estimation.  The control system intervenes in advance, lightly actuating the callipers through, and exiting corners.

As a result the system manages the evolution of the side slip angle. Making control of the lateral dynamics in high-performance situations more intuitive, controllable and predictable. So it is not a stability control system, but a maximum performance-focused system.

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider was developed for both road and track use

The introduction of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer into the integrated SSC 6.0 system thus gives drivers extra confidence. So that they can more easily handle even lengthy oversteer situations. It also makes performance on the limit easier to reach and control even for less expert drivers.

Obviously the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is extremely efficient in dealing with rapid changes of direction. And offers drivers a unique sense of predictability. The recalibrated SCM-E dampers and the 10% stiffer springs contribute to this improved handling precision. Longitudinal acceleration is 13% higher than on the 488 Spider.

The braking system was modified to improve cooling

Although the 488 Pista Spider is mostly for road use, it was also designed to deliver performance on the track. As a result, the braking system was modified. To improve cooling, particularly under extreme use, and also to cut the time it takes to get up to temperature.

The bodyshell of the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider was designed to keep the car as light as possible

The 488 Challenge’s brake servo was adopted to enhance the sporty pedal feel. And to deliver smooth braking even in extreme conditions. These interventions, combined with the car’s lighter overall weight, have reduced the 200-0 km/h stopping distance by a metre. Compared to the 488 Spider.

The bodyshell was designed to keep the car as light as possible. And features ultralight materials. Such as carbon-fibre for the engine cover, the front and rear bumpers and the rear spoiler. And Lexan for the rear window.

The optional 20” single-piece carbon-fibre wheel rim

This is also the first time that an optional 20” single-piece carbon-fibre wheel rim has been made available. Made entirely from carbon-fibre, it is around 20% lighter than the forged wheel rims. They come as standard on this car. And features a special coating developed for the aerospace industry on the channel and spokes. Which efficiently reflects and dissipates heat generated under braking.

The need for efficient downforce resulted in the whole of the front being completely redesigned

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The engine’s sound is unique and unmistakable, as befits a special series car like the 488 Pista Spider.

Aerodynamic efficiency of the 488 Spider has been improved by 20%

In-depth aerodynamics research played a big part in improving the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider’s performance. Working on a concept focused on uncompromising innovation and performance allowed considerable engineering freedom in developing significant solutions. Aerodynamic efficiency of the 488 Spider has been improved by 20%. With major benefits in terms of absolute speed and lap times. On medium-fast tracks as well as sheer fun behind the wheel.

This substantial improvement is due in great part to the radical choices made for the bodywork and underbody forms. With the aim of increasing downforce without increasing the car’s drag coefficient. In fact, the 488 Pista Spider takes the aerodynamic concepts adopted on the 488 Spider. From which it is derived and moulds them into a much more technically extreme and ambitious package. Examples are the active aerodynamics on the rear underbody. And a completely redesigned version of the blown spoiler (patented on the 488 GTB).

The 488 Pista Spider’s V8 turbo punches out 50 cv more

The 488 Pista Spider’s V8 turbo punches out 50 cv more than the car on which it is based. Thanks in part to a reduction of almost 15° C in the temperature of the air entering the plenum. With respect to the 488 Spider. The development of the thermo-fluid dynamics consequently focused on powertrain cooling, to minimise any impact on pure aerodynamic performance.

To guarantee the performance demanded of the powertrain, the intercooler would have required an increase of 25% in size. Compared to that of the 488 Spider.

The engineers worked intensively on the car as a whole

In order to minimise the increase in weight and drag, the engineers worked intensively to improve efficiency. Limiting the required surface area increase to just 7%. Main contributing factors to the improved intercooler efficiency were the radical layout choices made at the front.

Specific shape of the spoiler delivers powerful recompression

The front radiator arrangement was completely redesigned. As with 488 Challenge, the rake of the radiators has been inverted. And they are now inclined towards the rear. To direct the hot air to the underbody ahead of the front wheels. This choice produced, on the one hand, an improvement of 10% in the performance of the rear intercoolers. And, on the other, an additional aerodynamic benefit. The virtual fairing of the exposed area of the tyre which cuts the car’s drag by 7%.

Spoiler delivers powerful recompression

The engine air intakes have been moved from the flanks. Same solution adopted on the 488 Spider – to the rear spoiler as per the 488 Challenge. The specific shape of the spoiler delivers powerful recompression. Which guarantees that the engine air intake benefits from high dynamic pressure. Shortening the length of the inlet duct, reducing consequent losses and boosting engine performance.

The need for efficient downforce resulted in the whole of the front of the car being completely redesigned. Particularly the bumpers and bonnet.

The front intake of the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is completed by a central lower wing profile

One innovative Formula 1-derived solution in particular stands out: the S-Duct. The air from the intake on the front bumper passes through an aerodynamic duct with calibrated sections. And exits through a vent on the bonnet, creating downforce over the front axle.

Furthermore, the front intake is completed by a central lower wing profile with a dual function. On the one hand, it acts as a splitter. Which accelerates the flow and increases the amount of air passing through the S-Duct. Thus improving its performance. While, on the other, it creates a low pressure area under the front underbody, further boosting downforce.

The introduction of this particular solution accounts for 18% of the overall increase in downforce. Compared to the 488 Spider, but barely a 2% increase in drag.

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The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider sports the most powerful V8 engine in Maranello history.

23 % increase in downforce compared to the Ferrari 488 Spider

The exterior sections of the bumper ahead of the wheels were also extensively redesigned. With solutions modified from the 488 Challenge. And reinterpreted so successfully that they are responsible for 23% of the increase in downforce compared to the 488 Spider. Radical scoops in the front bumper allow aerodynamic elements to protrude in areas where they can be most efficient. 

The volume of the front bumper is recessed before the wheelarch. To deflect the flow ahead of the wheels outwards. Generating suction from the wheelarch and thus from the front underbody. Which is equipped with diffusers, all to the benefit of front downforce. At the rear, two elements contributed to the achievement of the downforce target. The blown spoiler system and the venting behind the rear wheels.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider’s underbody was specifically redesigned

The spoiler is higher (+30 mm) and longer (+40 mm) compared to its counterpart on the 488 Spider. Development work focused on the efficiency of the bleed under the spoiler. In fact, the evolution of the spoiler system and its bleed has had a significant impact on downforce. Accounting for 25% of the overall increase compared to the 488 Spider.

As is always the case with each new Ferrari, the car’s underbody was specifically redesigned. To ensure it delivers as efficient a downforce figure as possible. The difference from the 488 Spider is how the hot air from the radiators is deflected to the underbody. This choice was made to enhance the cooling layout and lower the car’s drag coefficient. However shrinks the surfaces that can be used to generate downforce. To make up for this and further boost downforce, the designers decided to exploit other areas of the underbody.

The rear diffuser is also derived directly from Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider was thus equipped with front diffusers. Made possible by the change in the inclination of the front radiators. And the elimination of the dams ahead of the wheels. Thanks to a ramp already optimised for the 488 GTE, the diffusers accelerate the flow. Venting it into the wheelarches. Creating strong suction that in turn is responsible for 12% of the overall downforce increase compared to the 488 Spider.

As in the 488 GTB, the diffuser is equipped with a system of 3 active flaps

The vortex generators on the underbody have also been optimised. And now generate 10% more downforce, thanks to modifications to their profile and length. The rear diffuser is also derived directly from Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship experience. And has the same double kink line as the 488 GTE’s. Amplifying the extraction and downforce generation capacities of a traditional diffuser.

As in the 488 GTB, the diffuser is equipped with a system of 3 active flaps. They rotate 14° in minimum drag configuration to completely stall the diffuser and thus significantly reduce the car’s drag.

Aerodynamic demands guided the work of the Ferrari Design Centre team

The 488 Pista Spider’s forms have been meticulously sculpted to ensure they are more performance-oriented than ever.

Aerodynamic demands guided the work of the Ferrari Design Centre team. The 488 Pista Spider’s forms have been meticulously sculpted to ensure they are more performance-oriented than ever. With huge attention lavished on ensuring that the Maranello marque’s signature styling elements and aesthetic canons were respected.

Reference to the prominent aerodynamic underbody motif of the 488 GTE

The designers used innovative elements. Such as the aerodynamic S-Duct at the front. As an opportunity to visually shorten the car’s nose, creating an original floating wing effect. Proudly, the black edging on the front bumpers and the side flicks reference the aerodynamic underbody motif of the 488 GTE.

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The 488 Pista Spider’s target client is the diehard Ferrarista who already owns other Ferrari spiders.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has a racing livery that runs the entire length of the car

Most notable on the flanks is that the splitter in the side air intakes has been removed. At the front, the aerodynamic profiles that start at the front bumpers run sleekly along the side miniskirts. All the way to the side appendages of the rear diffuser.

The concept of the front is echoed in the dolphin-tail rear spoiler. Which appears suspended to provide an impression lightness and efficiency. While the rear volumes add a sense of power to the tail. For sure, the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has a racing livery that runs the entire length of the car. Starting at the front bumper, then diving into the S-Duct and continuing all the way to the rear spoiler.

ferrari 488 gtb spider pista models v8 turbo twinturbo new models sports cars
DThe interior of the new Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has a distinctively spare racing feel.

Driver zone in the new Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has also been enhanced

The interior has a distinctively spare racing feel. The use of materials such as carbon-fibre and Alcantara works brilliantly with the crafting in the Ferrari’s cockpit. Contrasting hand-stitching, tread plates and heel rests in triangular pattern aluminium and sculpted door panels are fine examples of this.

The driver zone has been enhanced by two newly-developed all-carbon-fibre instrument clusters around the main instrument panel (optional content). Also the glove compartment has been removed and replaced by handy storage pockets on the rear bench and the doors. The effect is to significantly visually slim down the volume of the under-dash area.

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The driver zone has been enhanced by two newly-developed all-carbon-fibre instrument clusters around the main instrument panel.

7 years maintenance

Ferrari’s quality standards underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider. Available across the entire range, it covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. The scheduled maintenance programme for Ferraris is an exclusive service. That allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years.

https://www.ferrari.com

Technical Specifications – Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

ENGINE

Type: V8 – 90°twin-turbo – Dry sump
Overall displacement: 3902 cc
Max. power output*: 530 kW (720 cv) at 8000 rpm
Max. torque*: 770 Nm at 3000 rpm 7th gear
Specific power output: 185 cv/l
Max. engine speed: 8000 rpm
Compression ratio: 9.6:1

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT


Length: 4605 mm
Width: 1975 mm
Height: 1206 mm
Wheelbase: 2650 mm
Front track: 1679 mm
Rear track: 1649 mm
Kerb weight: 1485 kg
dry weight: 1380 kg
Dry weight/power ratio: 1.92 kg/cv
Weight distribution: 41.5% front – 58.5% rear
Boot capacity: 170 l
Fuel tank capacity: 78 l

TYRES


Front: 245/35 ZR 20 J9.0
Rear: 305/30 ZR 20 J11.0
 

BRAKES 

        
Front: 398 x 223 x 38 mm
Rear: 360 x 233 x 32 mm

TRANSMISSION/GEARBOX


F1 seven-speed dual-clutch transmission

ELECTRONIC CONTROLS


E-Diff3, F1-Trac, ABS/High Performance EBD with Ferrari Pre-Fill,
FrS SCM-E, FDE, SSC 6.0

PERFORMANCE

0-100 km/h: 2.85 s
0-200 km/h: 8.0 s
100-0 km/h:  29.5 m
200-0 km/h:  116 m
Max. speed:  340 km/h
Fiorano lap time: 1’21.5”

FUEL CONSUMPTION/CO2 EMISSIONS


Under homologation
*With 98 RON petrol
** With optional lightweight content