Ferrari has given us a preview of its latest production model on this fine winter morning. Called the FF (four seats and four-wheel drive), it represents a significant departure from Ferrari’s past GT cars.
The beating heart of the FF is a reworked version of the 612 Scaglietti’s 6.0-liter V-12. In the FF, the now-6.2-liter powerplant produces approximately 669 horsepower and 504 pound-feet of torque. With no manual transmission mentioned, it looks like the only way to shift will be with Ferrari’s seven-speed dual-clutch F1 gearbox from the California and 458 Italia. This is okay with us though, as Ferrari promises to deliver 0-62 times of 3.7 seconds and a stratospheric top speed of 208 miles per hour.
The FF is a very different piece of design for Ferrari, being the first shooting brake in the company’s history (excluding one-offs like the 1962 250 Breadvan). In this case, that svelte backend features two-usable seats and a surprising amount of utility. With the rear seats up, customers have access to 16 cubic feet of real estate. Fold the back seats down, and that area swells to just over 28 cubic feet of space.
Now for the part that the purists may not be okay with. Power from that big V-12 is going to all four wheels, thanks to Ferrari’s 4RM four-wheel-drive system. This system supposedly weighs about fifty-percent less than a standard four-wheel drive, but should make it easier to keep all 669 stallions in check. Fans shouldn’t worry too much about heft though, as the FF has a dry weight of 3946 pounds, which is only about 60 pounds more than a 612, while offering a considerably better weight-to-power ratio (5.89 pounds per horsepower compared to 7.9 in the 612). Other techie items include the latest iteration of magnetorheological dampers and the newest carbon-ceramics from Brembo.
The FF will make its official debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Please scroll down for the official press release from Ferrari.
The new Ferrari is about to arrive
The FF unveiled on
http://www.ferrari.com A revolutionary four-seater, four-wheel drive V12 Ferrari: exceptional performance and versatility
Maranello, 21st January 2011 – The official Prancing Horse web site, Ferrari.com, has revealed the first photographs of the new FF, the company's most powerful, versatile four-seater ever, as well as its first ever four-wheel drive car.
The FF - an acronym for Ferrari Four (four seats and four-wheel drive) - ushers in an entirely new GT sports car concept. A decisive break with the past, the new car represents not so much an evolution as a true revolution.
This new V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance, guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience.
Designed by Pininfarina, the shape and proportions perfectly interpret the FF's harmonious blend of sporting DNA and extraordinary usability.
The FF features the company's first ever four-wheel drive system. Ferrari's exclusive, patented 4RM (four-wheel drive) weighs 50 per cent less than a conventional four-wheel drive system, maintaining perfect weight distribution (53 per cent over the rear axle). Completely integrated with the car's electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels. The FF is also equipped with the latest magnetorheological damping system (SCM3), as well as the most recent development in carbon-ceramic brakes from Brembo.
Exceptional performance levels come courtesy of the new 6,262 cc direct injection engine which develops 660 CV at 8,000 rpm. In tandem with its transaxle dual-clutch F1 gearbox, stunning acceleration figures (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec.) are guaranteed. The new model's class-leading weight-to-power ratio of 2.7 kg/CV, along with its ideal weight distribution, ensures exceptionally responsive handling. The result is that owners will be able to enjoy the FF's prowess over a wide range of uses: city driving, on low grip or snow-covered surfaces and on the track. Performance aside, Maranello's latest model also offers standards of passenger space, comfort, in-car spec and equipment previously unheard of in such a high-performance car. It can comfortably accommodate four people and their luggage, thanks to the best cabin space and boot capacity (450 litres extendable to 800) figures in its category, including four-door cars.
A vast array of personalisation options and accessories has been developed for the FF. These include six model-specific exterior colours and sumptuous interior trim incorporating specially selected and treated aniline leather.
The FF, which will make its official debut in occasion of the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, is presented today with the first three photos from a dedicated shoot by Giovanni Gastel.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Type 65-degree V12
Overall displacement 6,262 cc
Maximum power 660 CV @ 8,000 rpm
Maximum torque 683 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Dimensions and weight
Length 4907 mm
Width 1953 mm
Height 1379 mm
Dry weight* 1790 kg
Weight distribution 47% front, 53% rear
Weight/power ratio 2.7 kg/CV
Performance
Maximum speed 335 km/h
0-100 km/h 3.7 sec
Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE+EUDC)
Fuel consumption** 15,4 l/100 km
Emissions** 360 g/km
