2011 Geneva Preview: Ferrari FF is the company’s first four-wheel-drive car

Ferrari FF

Usually when you hear of an Italian supercar manufacturer building all-wheel-drive models, you think of Lamborghini… well, not anymore. Lamborghini’s competitor Ferrari today unveiled the first pictures and details of the new FF, the brand’s first four-wheel-drive car.

What does the FF stand for? Ferrari Four – and it stands for four seats and four wheel drive. The Ferrari FF features the company’s first four-wheel-drive system, which is patented 4RM and weighs 50 percent less than a conventional four-wheel drive system, maintaining perfect weight distribution. The system is completely integrated with the car’s electronic dynamic control systems, meaning it “delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels.”

Speaking of performance, the Ferrari FF is powered by a 6.3L V12 engine making 651-hp and 504 lb-ft of of torque. Mated to a transaxle dual-clutch F1 gearbox, the Ferrari FF goes from 0-62 mph 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 208 mph.

The Ferrari FF will make its official debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March and will go on sale shortly after as the company’s flagship gt.

Hit the jump for the press release and please don’t hesitate to let us know what you think about the looks. We are reserving judgement as of right now.

Press Release:

A revolutionary four-seater, four-wheel drive V12 Ferrari:
exceptional performance and versatility

Maranello, 21st January 2011 – The official Prancing Horse web site, Ferrari.com, has revealed the first photographs of the new FF, the company’s most powerful, versatile four-seater ever, as well as its first ever four-wheel drive car.

The FF – an acronym for Ferrari Four (four seats and four-wheel drive) – ushers in an entirely new GT sports car concept. A decisive break with the past, the new car represents not so much an evolution as a true revolution.

This new V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance, guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience.

Designed by Pininfarina, the shape and proportions perfectly interpret the FF’s harmonious blend of sporting DNA and extraordinary usability.

The FF features the company’s first ever four-wheel drive system. Ferrari’s exclusive, patented 4RM (four-wheel drive) weighs 50 per cent less than a conventional four-wheel drive system, maintaining perfect weight distribution (53 per cent over the rear axle). Completely integrated with the car’s electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels. The FF is also equipped with the latest magnetorheological damping system (SCM3), as well as the most recent development in carbon-ceramic brakes from Brembo.

Exceptional performance levels come courtesy of the new 6,262 cc direct injection engine which develops 660 CV at 8,000 rpm. In tandem with its transaxle dual-clutch F1 gearbox, stunning acceleration figures (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec.) are guaranteed. The new model’s class-leading weight-to-power ratio of 2.7 kg/CV, along with its ideal weight distribution, ensures exceptionally responsive handling. The result is that owners will be able to enjoy the FF’s prowess over a wide range of uses: city driving, on low grip or snow-covered surfaces and on the track. Performance aside, Maranello’s latest model also offers standards of passenger space, comfort, in-car spec and equipment previously unheard of in such a high-performance car. It can comfortably accommodate four people and their luggage, thanks to the best cabin space and boot capacity (450 litres extendable to 800) figures in its category, including four-door cars.

A vast array of personalisation options and accessories has been developed for the FF. These include six model-specific exterior colours and sumptuous interior trim incorporating specially selected and treated aniline leather.

The FF, which will make its official debut in occasion of the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, is presented today with the first three photos from a dedicated shoot by Giovanni Gastel.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
Type 65-degree V12
Overall displacement 6,262 cc
Maximum power 660 CV @ 8,000 rpm
Maximum torque 683 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Dimensions and weight
Length 4907 mm
Width 1953 mm
Height 1379 mm
Dry weight* 1790 kg
Weight distribution 47% front, 53% rear
Weight/power ratio 2.7 kg/CV
Performance
Maximum speed 335 km/h
0-100 km/h 3.7 sec
Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE+EUDC)
Fuel consumption** 15,4 l/100 km
Emissions** 360 g/km

* European market version
** With HELE system

– By: Omar Rana