Perhaps one of the most illustrious names in Ferrari’s history, Testarossa has made its return. In Milan, Ferrari unveiled the successor to the SF90; a model worthy of reviving this historic badge. Officially, the car is called the Ferrari 849 Testarossa.
For many enthusiasts, the name Testarossa evokes memories of a twelve-cylinder engine, but that’s not the case this time. The designation refers to the same powertrain as the SF90. The “8” in “849” represents the number of cylinders, while “49” indicates the cubic capacity per cylinder.
The 849 Testarossa delivers staggering performance. Its familiar twin-turbocharged V8 produces 830 hp and is assisted by three electric motors — two on the rear axle and one on the front. Together, the electric motors contribute 220 hp, giving a combined system output of 1.050 hp, fifty more than the SF90.
Two Body Styles and the Assetto Fiorano Package
Ferrari has also revealed the 849 Testarossa Spider alongside the Berlinetta. This version features a retractable hardtop that opens in just 14 seconds, even at speeds of up to 45 km/h. It does add a little extra weight, around 90 kilograms.
For those seeking a more focused variant, Ferrari offers the Assetto Fiorano package, available on both the berlinetta and the Spider. Selecting this option adds revised aerodynamics, additional carbon-fibre components, a stiffer suspension setup, lighter wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres. The hardcore version is 30 kilograms lighter overall. Remarkably, despite the inclusion of hybrid hardware, Ferrari has kept the kerb weight impressively low at just 1,570 kilograms for the berlinetta.
Over 1,000bhp and Exceptional Performance
The performance figures of the new Testarossa are extraordinary. The 849 Testarossa accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2,3 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in 6,4 seconds. In-gear acceleration is equally astonishing, while top speed stands at 330 km/h.
With more than 1.000 hp on tap, that may not sound outrageous by modern standards, but the immense levels of downforce are the limiting factor here. At 250 km/h, the advanced aerodynamics generate 415 kilograms of downforce,25 kilograms more than the SF90.
Aerodynamic Design with a Nod to the Past
The design has been thoroughly reworked compared with the SF90. Its shape is driven primarily by aerodynamic efficiency, yet it still aligns with Ferrari’s current design language. With its straight nose and muscular haunches, the 849 Testarossa shares visual DNA with the F80, the 12Cilindri and the Daytona SP3. Its sharp, angular lines inevitably recall the legendary Testarossa we all remember.
The cabin, too, has been redesigned. The tall centre console stands out, as do the controls on the steering wheel. These are once again physical buttons rather than touch-sensitive panels, a welcome return for many Ferrari owners.
Heritage and Innovation Hand in Hand
With the 849 Testarossa, Ferrari bridges the gap between past and future. The name may be steeped in history, but the technology is entirely modern. By blending classic design cues with hybrid power and advanced aerodynamics, Ferrari proves that heritage and innovation can coexist perfectly. The Testarossa is back and ready to write a new chapter in the story of Maranello’s finest.
Image credits: Ferrari S.p.A.
