The M from ‘modificata’
It would not be right or fair to the Ferrari Portofino M to call it ‘just a facelift’ of the standard Portofino. There’s a lot more going on here than some aesthetic tweaks that were made just before lunchtime.
But indeed, this is an evolution of the well-known GT/Spider convertible, as Ferrari refers to it with the well-known ‘M’ (from ‘modifications’) which the brand reserves for cars that have received ‘a significant boost in performance’. This is therefore not so much a Portofino on steroids, more a Portofino who has gone to the gym more often.
What is the easiest way to recognize it compared to its predecessor? The M has more aggressive intakes in the front bumper and an opening at the top of the wheel arches, intended to reduce air resistance. We also spot a new grille and a pronter rear, thanks to redesigned exhausts. Furthermore, the Ferrari Portofino M got a new diffuser, new wheels and many smaller details were changed.
What engine is in the Ferrari Portofino M?
As for the hardware: under the voluptuous body we find the 620 hp twin-turbo V8 and eight-speed pinball machine that we already experienced in the Roma. The aerodynamics have been improved, as has the braking feel, two additional options have appeared on the well-known manettino-switch for the driving modes on the steering wheel, the stock assistance systems have been expanded, and so there are a number of improvements that make the Portofino M just that little bit nicer to drive. And by ‘nicer’ we mainly mean faster and happier.
But that doesn’t make it a Ferrari in which you can taste a certain amount of track intentions. The M is tougher than the ‘old’ Portofino, sure, but it’s still a smooth ride, and it’s just as good at slow watch-me-roll as it is in full throttle thrills and spills.
He drives smoother
The new transmission is great for normal road use as well as hitting the red line. The chassis seems in its softest position just a little more indulgent, and that fits ‘m excellent. On the track you will certainly benefit from the improved feedback in the brake pedal, but also on the road and in heavy traffic it helps you to drive more smoothly.
That said, as you start to pick up the pace, the double-blown V8 quickly bares its teeth. When you’ve selected the right traction control settings, it allows you to traverse with a safer digital safety net than before. But of course you can also just switch everything off and risk your no-claim discount.
Has the car gotten better?
In summary, you can say that the Ferrari Portofino M is a better car than the outgoing Portofino not only in terms of power or performance, but in almost all important areas. With a starting price of just over 250,000 euros (more than 200,000 euros in Belgium), it is obviously not cheap, and it probably cannot be regarded as a car that defines the brand. That could be something that bothers you.
On the other hand, it has more drama than, say, a Porsche 911 Turbo Convertible, which you can buy for the same money, and it is more theatrical than anything Mercedes makes in this segment. It all depends on what you want to use it for. However, for a little more money you have a Ferrari that is just a bit more Ferrari.
Specifications Ferrari Portofino M (2022)
engine
3,855 cc
V8 biturbo
620 hp @ 5,750 rpm
760 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Drive
rear wheels
8v automatic
Performance
0-100 km/h in 3.5 s
top >320 km/h
Consumption (average)
11.3 l/100 km
256 g/km CO2 (G label)
Dimensions
4,594 x 1,938 x 1,318mm (lxwxh)
2,670mm (wheelbase)
1,664 kg
80 l (petrol)
292 l (luggage)
Prices
€250,872 (NL)
€202,904 (B)