The Ferrari F80 hypercar ditches the V12 for a faster V6 engine

21.10.2024

The Ferrari F80 is a once-in-a-decade hypercar project that has joined the elite lineup of the Italian automaker. Breaking tradition, it features a powerful hybrid V6 engine delivering 1,183 horsepower, instead of the iconic V12. Priced at over €3.5 million, the F80 is inevitably compared to the McLaren W1, which offers a V8 engine and 1,258 horsepower for nearly €1.2 million less. Ferrari's Chief Marketing Officer, Enrico Galliera, explained the reasoning behind this decision.

According to Galliera, ‟We considered whether to go with the most iconic engine, the V12, or the highest performing, the V6, and chose the latter. We've always selected the most high-performing option for our supercars; take the F40, which used a twin-turbo V8 for this reason.‟ Ferrari decided against adopting a fully electric or plug-in hybrid setup, believing that their current hybrid solution is ideal.

The advanced system of the F80 includes not only the 3.0-liter, 120-degree V6 producing 887 horsepower, but also five electric motors that enhance performance, including two supporting the turbochargers and active suspension systems. While sharing similarities in layout and size with the 296 GTB, the F80's V6 engine is a unique build.

The McLaren W1, with its V8 engine and higher power output, has sparked discussions due to the price difference of around €1.2 million in favor of the British car. Galliera welcomed the competition, stating, ‟We're excited that McLaren has introduced a comparable model, as it drives competition.‟

Despite the steep price and limited production of only 799 units, every F80 has been sold to Ferrari's top clients, with demand far exceeding availability. Ferrari is now focused on handling the disappointed clients who missed out on an allocation.