2019 Ferrari Portofino First Impressions
What would an everyday Ferrari look like? A Ferrari that could seat four and driven to work everyday. A Ferrari with enough room in the boot for long trips. Perhaps most importantly, a Ferrari that a decent number of us could afford. The Portofino might just come closer to these measures than any previous Ferrari.
Most Ferrari’s are distinctly hypercars, focusing almost solely on performance at a very steep price. The Portofino is a different breed of Ferrari, following in the footsteps of the California by attempting to be even more day-to-day friendly.
With an expected price tag of around $200,000, the Portofino still won’t be the most wallet friendly car on the road. Still, with an extra two inches of rear seat legroom, a drop hardtop, improved handling and even increased speed, the Portofino is likely to sell a high number of units.
The California was the best selling Ferrari in history, with 85% of owners being new to the brand as well. Regardless, the California fell short of expectations, both in terms of sales and on-road performance. The new Portofino will aim to unseat the California, bringing Ferrari to the masses, or at least a greater number of people.
The Portofino has been refined with lots of consumer feedback. Ferrari tried to go back to the drawing board with the Califonria, to build the “dream” entry Ferrari. While the Portofino is an improvement in many areas, it remains lacking in some ways as well. In city driving at low speeds remains a particularly glaring problem, with the Portfino’s suspension struggling to offer a smooth ride.
Meanwhile, while the Portofino will seat four, be warned, the rear seats are better suited for small children and short distances, rather than adults or road trips. The trunk is likewise limited, and you’ll struggle to fit enough in for a long trip.
But hey, with a top speed of 199 miles per hour, you’ll get wherever you’re going quickly.
