N THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS TAKES A LOOK AT THE NEW FERRARI AMALFI

I count myself lucky as on a number of occasions I have had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari and two stand out. Tyre testing with Michelin at the Jerez circuit not only gave a feel for proper tyres on the right car, but the chance to drive at relatively high speeds within the safety of a race track. However, even  more enjoyable was when I took part in a drive from the Middle East to the UK and Ireland. I drove the final leg from south of Dublin to the finish at the Slieve Donard Hotel in County Down. I roared down Dublin’s O’Connell Street flanked by eight Garda motorcyclists, through red lights and all and to the motorway and again the Garda played their part, holding back the northbound traffic as I enjoyed the true power and speed of my machine from Modena. Call it a boyhood dream, it really was!

Now to the present and a recent introduction, the entry level model in the Ferrari range, the Amalfi, which is very much a heavily upgraded Roma. The newcomer is a front-mid-engine V8 2+ coupe and it redefines the concept of contemporary sportiness, combining high performance, versatility, and refined aesthetics. Designed for those who want to enjoy sporty driving without sacrificing comfort and style, the Amalfi stands out for its unprecedented balance between adrenaline and everyday usability. While the 2+ configuration allows the rear seats to be used to significantly increase the car’s practicality, enhancing cargo capacity and allowing trips with children; in no way can I imagine adults of any proportion being comfortable in the rear seats. In terms of  luggage space, there is enough for two moderate sized cases for a weekend away.

The design is a minimalist approach, with sculpted volumes and clean surfaces that express modernity and dynamism, with the front dominated by a large air intake and a long, sculpted bonnet housing the turbo V8 engine. At the rear, the integrated active spoiler contributes to high-speed stability, while forged wheels and carbon fibre details complete a sporty and sophisticated look. Make no mistake you will instantly recognise the new Amalfi as a Ferrari and like the rest of the more expensive range it is a head turner. Moving to the interior which adopts a dual-cockpit layout, with a new steering wheel featuring physical buttons and the return of the iconic start button; this a nice touch. The integrated central display and ergonomic controls ensure intuitive interaction with the car, even during dynamic driving. There is extensive use of carbon fibre and contrasting stitching which adds a touch of exclusivity.

At the heart of the Ferrari Amalfi is the evolved twin-turbo V8 which is derived from the award-winning F154 family, capable of delivering 640bhp thanks to new turbocharging calibrations. Mated to the power unit is the highly acclaimed eight speed dual-clutch transmission which ensures fast and smooth gear changes. Performance is one of the key elements of any Ferrari and lucky owners will not be disappointed; the sprint from rest to 100kph (62mph) takes a mere 3.3 seconds, and the new Amalfi has a power to weight ratio of 2.29 kg/bhp, which not surprisingly is the best in its class.

Ian Lynas