The Ferrari 488 Pista, the latest generation of race-derived V8-engined Special Series, made its debut in Hong Kong this afternoon.

Unveiled at the extravagant launch event held at Shaw Studios by official Ferrari dealer of Hong Kong, Blackbird Concessionaires, the successor to the 458 Speciale, the 430 Scuderia and the Challenge Stradale marks a significant step forward from the previous V8 Sports Special Series in terms of both sporting dynamics and performance. Pista means “racetrack” in Italian, and the car is derived extensively from the brand’s experience in the FIA World Endurance Championship, featuring technological carry-over from the model’s racing counterpart — the 488 Challenge.

At the heart of the new 488 Pista is the 720cv-delivering 3.9-litre engine, the most powerful V8 in Ferrari’s history – evolved from the turbo unit that won the overall International Engine of the Year award titles in 2016, 2017 and 2018. Extensive weight-saving solutions mean that the new model weighs 90kg less than the 488 GTB, at just 1280kg dry. The aerodynamics package, including the front-mounted F1-inspired S-Duct, redesigned underbody vortex generators, a 488-GTE-derived rear diffuser and an optimised rear spoiler, results in an impressive 20 percent increase in downforce.

The Ferrari Challenge Asia Pacific series was introduced at the launch event to celebrate the racing-derived DNA of the new road car. The entire current range of Ferrari road cars was also displayed, including the Portofino, 812 Superfast, GTC4Lusso and GTC4Lusso T, and 488 GTB and Spider, showcasing the versatility under the same marque defined by excellent performance, technology and craftsmanship.

Only a limited number of 488 Pistas will be available in the Hong Kong market to loyal clientele and Corse Clienti racing and track programme participants. Contact Blackbird Concessionaires for more information.