Ferrari 488 GTB Breaks Cover

Photo: John Brooks Photo

Ferrari’s new-for-2016 GTE challenger has broken cover, with the first photos of the 488 GTB having been revealed following a test earlier this month in Italy.

The mid-engined sports car, which replaces the F458 Italia, completed its first rollout earlier this month, ahead of further development prior to the FIA’s Balance of Performance test at Ladoux.

Ferrari factory drivers Gianmaria Bruni and Giancarlo Fisichella have been among the drivers to already sample the new-generation model, which features a 3.9 liter twin-turbo.

“It will be a new era with a different style of car,” Bruni told Sportscar365. “I personally have already tested it, so it’s very nice and very, very well made from Michelotto and Ferrari.

“It’s different with the turbo and a different way to drive. For me, it was just the first outing and it will take some time to get used to.

“I’m looking forward to more testing to come in the coming months.”

The 488 GTB is scheduled to make its competition debut in next year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona, with Risi Competizione planning to be among the first teams to campaign the new Prancing Horse.

Bruni said AF Corse has yet to decide on whether it will contest Daytona, with the Italian squad’s chances 50/50 at this point.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John