In the early day of the Italian automobile industry, most cars were made by small local manufacturers. One of the workshops was run by Alfredo Ferrari who lived in Northern Italy.
He also showed his son Enzo how to drive. Enzo had a nose for talent and could form a team of experienced engineers. Together they designed one of the most iconic sports cars the 250 GTO.
In 2019 Ferrari presented a new car. The Ferrari Roma is meant to open the new section of the market for the brand. This is the vehicle that you can drive every day, and still enjoy its sporty characteristics.
It's inspired by the 330 GT 2+2 but has its own distinctive features. The changed style of the headlights and the shape of the front grill encompass the feeling of a new car. Here are 15 things you didn't know about the new Ferrari Roma.
15 The V8 Turbo Engine
The New Ferrari Roma features the renowned V8 turbo engine that has become the International Engine 4 times already. However, the company upgraded its cam profiles and added a speed sensor to achieve 5 000 RPM. The new filter should match the 2020 strict anti-pollution standards without compromising car performance.
14 The 8-Speed Gearbox
The 8-Speed Gearbox first appeared on the SF90 Stradale and proved to be an effective way to decrease fuel consumption while keeping the same level of driver comfort. Two main modifications have been made: the new reverse gear and longer gear ratios. The company promises a 35% increase in torque.
13 Zero Turbo Lag
Ferrari found a way to reduce turbo lag to zero and balance a loss in combustion efficiency. The new Ferrari Roma gives you an instant throttle response. It is possible due to an upgraded flat-plane crankshaft and smaller turbines. A tiny amount of air exits through the exhaust valves and creates high usable pressure.
12 Variable Boost Management
Variable Boost Management is the new software developed to balance torque delivery to match the selected gear. It optimizes fuel consumption and decreases emissions. As Ferrari explained, it works at high speeds. It also gives drivers the feeling of a smooth ride. As you change gears, the amount of torque increases up to 750 Nm.
11 New Exhaust Geometry
Every Ferrari car has a unique personality that shows through the sound. That's why the brand had to change the entire exhaust line geometry. They removed two rear silencers and increased backpressure in the pipes. The new by-pass oval valve improves sound quality. The new control system changes the sound while you drive.
10 New Mobile Rear Spoiler
The new Ferrari Roma got many features that improve aerodynamics. Ferrari engineers changed the rear spoiler completely to guarantee the downforce that can match the performance of the new car and retain its elegant look. Two vortex generators increase the front load. As a result, you get the most efficient load generation and distribution.
9 The Best Power To Weight Ratio
The Italian carmaker didn't change the wheelbase. Instead, they reworked the center of gravity that is now lower than before. As the brand representatives said, this makes the new Roma the "mid-front-engined V8 2+ car with the best weight/power ratio." 70% of car parts are new in order to increase bump absorption.
8 Side Slip Control Concept 6.0
Side Slip Control Concept 6.0 is an algorithm that estimates sideslip and sends data to the on-board control system. It combines 4 Ferrari systems to make handling more accessible. As Ferrari said, it increases fun behind the wheel. The Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer system will make its first appearance in the Roma.
7 Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer
Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer is the new system that automatically adjusts brake pressure on one or all wheels depending on the situation on the road. However, this is only for the Race setting. The system should control sideslip dynamics together with the Side Slip Control Concept 6.0 and increase car stability.
6 The Dual Cockpit Concept
The Dual Cockpit Concept makes a debut on the Ferrari Roma. This is the new way the company approaches interior design. Two safety cells were added without sacrificing the space. Unlike previous Ferrari cars that were built around the driver, this one has a symmetrical structure. It increases passenger comfort.
5 New Interior Architecture
The company says that the interior follows the new "integrated architecture" approach. It means that all interior details create a sense of textural continuity. There is more space between the dashboard and the seats. Doors, tunnels and the rear bench are organically integrated into the design. All controls are still on the central console.
4 The Minimalist Elegance
The company describes the exterior design as the "minimalist elegance". We can see it in its shark-nose, wide front bonnet and sinuous wings. The designers preserved Ferrari's unique styling but added new tweaks such as perforated surfaces and a reworked grille. However, every detail serves the purpose, nothing is there just for the looks.
3 Linear Light Strips And Twin Taillights
Since the Ferrari Roma is all about minimalism - even the rear window is small. The lights are pretty simple yet elegant. The company reduced the dimensions of the taillights, using linear light strips adjacent to the spoiler. An aerodynamic diffuser with the exhaust completes the rear end of the car nicely.
2 8.8-Inch Passenger Display
Your passengers will not get bored with the 8.8-inch passenger display. It features a full touchscreen that interacts with on-board systems. For example, passengers can choose music, view vehicle data, and current characteristics, access air conditioning functions. As the carmaker said, the passenger is your co-driver now.
1 The New Digital Instrument Cluster
In 2019 Ferrari tested drivers' attitudes during driving. The result is the "eyes on the road, hands on the wheel" philosophy that gave life to the new Digital Instrument Cluster. The steering wheel was completely redesigned. Now all important car commands are on the wheel, you don't have to move your hand from it.