Ferrari has always been about pushing speed and engineering boundaries. But with the new F80, the Italian carmaker seems to be taking it to a whole new level. Drawing inspiration from Formula 1 racing and aerospace technology, this supercar is more than just another Ferrari—they have described it as a futuristic beast that ‘brings together cutting-edge innovation with classic Italian passion.’
But, let’s be honest: at first, the F80 does just look like another sleek addition to Ferrari’s lineup. Beneath its sculpted body, though, actually lies an advanced hybrid system, a new powertrain, and technology borrowed straight from Ferrari’s most elite racing machines. With 1,184 horsepower under the hood, this is Ferrari’s boldest move yet.
It has a brand-new heart: a twin-turbo V6 hybrid
Ferrari has moved away from its traditional V12 and V8 engines for this model. Instead, the F80 is powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid system that delivers 1,184 horsepower. It’s not just any engine, though—it borrows technology from Ferrari’s Formula 1 cars and their Le Mans-winning 499P racer.
Its predecessors were naturally aspirated engines, but the F80 actually has existing hybrid technologies that has been used to maximize efficiency and power (just like this Ferrari engine). An electric motor in the front, or MGU-K unit as they call it, adds torque and helps with acceleration. Together, the three electric motors, one in the back and two in the front, generate about 296 horsepower of the total. The result? 0-200 km/h (124 mph) of just 5.7 seconds. Yes, it is faster than the McLaren W1 by 0.1 seconds. With a 9,200 RPM redline, the F80 screams like a race car but is serene on the road.
It’s intimidating to look at… but also just so beautiful
The moment you see the F80, its aggressive stance and aerodynamic bodywork tell you that this is no run-of-the-mill supercar. Ferrari drew heavily from aerospace technology, and its design is such that it aims to maximize stability and air flow.
The body has a dihedral cross-section, where two slanted surfaces meet to form a structure just like that of a fighter aircraft. The front is edged with menacing lines and a traditional vertical panel, creating a menacing but stylish look. While the tub and roof are fully made of super-light carbon fiber, giving the car added strength while cutting weight. The upper wishbones in the suspension system are 3D-printed as well, which not only weigh less and are stronger than metal components but are also more uniform in quality.
One of the biggest challenges with turbo engines is lag— that annoying delay just before power kicks in. But Ferrari has found a way around that. The F80 is their first car to have an eTurbo system. This setup puts electric motors between the turbine and compressor, that now allows the turbochargers to spool up quickly. The result? Immediate power delivery as soon as you put your foot down on the accelerator.
Ferrari also introduced a new “Boost Optimization” feature. Basically, this system learns the layout of a racetrack and applies extra power exactly where you might need most. When a car produces nearly 1,200 horsepower, stopping power becomes just as important. Ferrari therefore joined forces with Brembo to develop an entirely new braking system. The F80’s brake discs use longer carbon fibers, to make them stronger and better at dissipating heat. Ferrari says that these brakes are twice as powerful and three times better at handling heat than those in models befor.
A look inside the beast
Inside, the F80 is all about the driving experience (much like this Ferrari also is). Ferrari calls it a 1+ layout, meaning that everything they designed for this is designed around the driver. The center console and dashboard wrap around the cockpit, keeping the whole race-car feel. The passenger seat, which is just slightly pushed back, is said to blend into the design.
Ferrari also made a bold move by bringing back physical buttons on the steering wheel, replacing the touch-sensitive controls found in previous models. Yes, actual buttons that press down on! Why? Well, it says that buttons are easier to locate and press without looking, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. They are not wrong.
But there will only be 799 units made – and they’re already sold
As with all great Ferraris, the F80 will be a one-of-its-kind masterpiece. So only 799 units will be made, and right now every single one has already been sold. Buyers paid $3.2 million each for the privilege of owning one. Along with the car, they receive a seven-year maintenance program.