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Ferrari 488

Exotic · Ferrari

Ferrari 488: Ferrari's first turbocharged V8 since the F40. 661 horsepower, twin-turbo, modern Ferrari supercar.
Photo: Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Ferrari's first turbocharged V8 since the F40. 661 horsepower, twin-turbo, modern Ferrari supercar.

The Ferrari 488 is a mid-engine sports car produced from 2015 to 2019, replacing the 458. The 488 used the F154 CB twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 making 661 horsepower in standard 488 GTB trim and 710 horsepower in 488 Pista trim. The 488 represented the transition of mid-engine Ferrari V8s from naturally aspirated to twin-turbo, addressing emissions and efficiency requirements while maintaining performance. The 488 came in numerous variants: GTB (coupe), Spider (convertible), Pista (focused performance variant), and Pista Spider (limited convertible). The 488 Pista is widely considered the most desirable 488; the lighter weight, more aggressive aerodynamics, and tuned engine produce a track-focused supercar that competes with much more expensive cars. The 488 reception was mixed. Reviewers praised the increased performance compared to 458 but felt the turbocharged engine character was less engaging than the naturally aspirated predecessor. The 488 Pista helped recover some character through its more aggressive tuning. Production ended in 2019 with the launch of the F8 Tributo. The 488 has aged into recognized supercar territory. Used pricing has been moderate; the 488 Pista has appreciated significantly while the 488 GTB has been more accessible. On WhipJury, 488 submissions appear occasionally and reliably do well in voting. Pista variants and modified examples reliably top voting. Stock 488 GTB and Spider cars provide context for the broader platform.

488 variants

488 GTB (2015-2019). Standard coupe. 661 horsepower twin-turbo V8.

488 Spider (2016-2019). Convertible variant.

488 Pista (2018-2019). Focused performance coupe. 710 horsepower, lighter weight, more aggressive aero.

488 Pista Spider (2018-2019). Limited Pista convertible.

488 on WhipJury

488 submissions appear occasionally. Pista variants reliably top voting. Stock 488 GTB and Spider cars do well. The community recognizes the 488 as the modern twin-turbo Ferrari V8.

Frequently asked questions about Ferrari 488

Why did Ferrari turbocharge the 488?
Emissions and efficiency regulations. The naturally aspirated 458 V8 was difficult to certify under tightening emissions standards. Turbocharging provides significant emissions and efficiency advantages. The 488 power increased from 562 to 661 horsepower; the trade-off was a less engaging engine character compared to the naturally aspirated 458. Subsequent 296 GTB further moved to V6 hybrid.
How much does a 488 cost?
Used pricing: 488 GTB $200,000-$280,000+. 488 Spider $230,000-$310,000+. 488 Pista $400,000-$600,000+. 488 Pista Spider $500,000-$800,000+. The 488 Pista has appreciated significantly; the 488 GTB has been more accessible.
Is the 488 Pista worth the premium over GTB?
For track-focused buyers, often yes. The Pista has more power, more aggressive aero, lighter weight, and more focused chassis tuning. The premium over GTB pricing typically reflects the engineering investment. For pure street use, the GTB may be adequate; for track use or pure collector value, Pista is preferred.
Are 488s reliable?
Generally yes. The twin-turbo V8 is durable when maintained. Common issues include occasional turbocharger wear at high mileage, electronic gremlins typical of modern Ferraris, and various age-related items. Maintenance is expensive due to specialty parts and limited dealer support.
Why is the 458 considered better than 488 by some?
Naturally aspirated character. The 458 V8 revs to 9,000 rpm with linear power delivery and distinctive sound. The 488 V8 is faster but more conventional in turbocharged character. Many enthusiasts feel the 458 represents the peak engagement of mid-engine Ferrari V8s; the 488 is the modern continuation but with a more efficient and powerful but less engaging powertrain.

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