aBr Magazine October 2025 October 2025 | Page 34

speed estimation allows for better exploitation of tire longitudinal force, both in straight-line and combined braking( brake-then-turn-in scenarios). This reduces inconsistencies caused by component tolerances or environmental variations, resulting in later, harder, and more repeatable braking than the SF90 Spider, with an electronic control efficiency unmatched by other Ferrari range cars.
To accommodate the heightened performance, the braking system has been entirely redesigned. It features larger discs and pads all around, with optimized ventilation channels on the front discs. The new rear calipers are specifically optimized for improved thermal management and rigidity. This synergy of components guarantees thermal efficiency, structural strength, and consistent performance, even under prolonged use.
The Testarossa Spider maintains the dynamic qualities of the 849 Testarossa due to extensive work on the structural rigidity of its chassis.
Its dedicated suspension setup and kinematic angles are optimized for handling at the limit. Lateral performance has increased by 3 % compared to the SF90 Spider, attributed to new tires and a specific setup. This also resulted in a 35 % reduction in the weight of the road springs and a 10 % reduction in the roll gradient, improving body motion
Available tyre technologies include the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R( optional), Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2( Assetto Fiorano), Pirelli PZero R( standard), and Bridgestone Potenza Sport( standard, also in run-flat). The focus during co-design was on maintaining driving emotion, enhancing pure performance, and improving handling in medium-grip conditions. The specified tyre dimensions are 265 / 35 R20 for the front and 325 / 30 R20 for the rear.
For enhanced comfort and safety, the integrated driver assistance systems are designed to intervene minimally, activating only in emergencies or when the driver requires assistance. These systems are fully customizable through the instrument cluster menus and include features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic Emergency Braking with Cyclist Detection, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Automatic High Beam, Traffic Sign Recognition, Surround View, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and driver fatigue monitoring.
The Ferrari 849 Testarossa Spider, envisioned by the Ferrari Styling Centre under Flavio Manzoni, represents a revolutionary design departure from the SF90 Spider. Its aesthetic, influenced by aeronautics and 1970s Sports Prototypes, embraces an architectural and futuristic direction, masterfully balancing sculptural forms with graphic elements through unprecedented vertical and transverse lines. management and maximizing aerodynamic benefits and dynamic camber. Shock absorber damping has been optimized through virtual and physical sessions, replicating both road and track driving.
Acceleration in third gear, especially noticeable from 5,500 rpm onwards, has also increased compared to the SF90 Spider. This is a combined result of an improved weight-to-power ratio, enhanced combustion engine performance at high revs, and dedicated power delivery shaping, all achieved without compromising lowend response.
Despite the introduction of components that would typically add over 20 kg to match the increased performance, the 849 Testarossa Spider maintains the same weight as the SF90 Spider. This was achieved through extensive mass lightening efforts, resulting in the best power-to-weight ratio ever for a model in this range.
Ferrari ' s tradition of co-developing tyres with leading manufacturers like Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone continues, resulting in a range of specialized solutions for diverse driving needs. Through intensive refinement and joint virtual and physical sessions, these collaborations have produced optimal performance across various contexts.
WORDS IN ACTION 32 OCTOBER 2025