Why You Should Consider Buying the Ferrari Portofino

The Ferrari Portofino is more than just a car—it’s a statement of style, power, and sophistication. Named after the picturesque Italian coastal village, this grand tourer convertible combines breathtaking performance with everyday usability, making it an enticing option for car enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. Whether you’re dreaming of cruising along scenic routes or turning heads in the city, the Ferrari Portofino offers an unparalleled driving experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why the Ferrari Portofino deserves a spot in your garage, covering its specifications, market price, pros, cons, recent reviews, and more.

Ferrari Portofino: An Overview

Introduced in 2017 as the successor to the Ferrari California T, the Portofino is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer with a retractable hardtop. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, it quickly gained attention for its sleek design and improved performance. The Portofino M (Modificata), launched in 2020, further refined this model with enhanced power, an upgraded transmission, and additional features. As Ferrari’s entry-level model, it balances thrilling performance with practicality, making it ideal for those new to the brand or seeking a versatile supercar.

See: Ferrari Portofino For Sale: 2-door Coupe Silver

Key Specifications of the Ferrari Portofino

The Ferrari Portofino is powered by a 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, a masterpiece that has won multiple International Engine of the Year awards. Here’s a detailed look at its specs:

• Engine: 3.9L V8 twin-turbo (F154BE for Portofino, F154BH for Portofino M)

• Horsepower: 592 hp (Portofino) / 612 hp (Portofino M) at 7,500 rpm

• Torque: 560 lb-ft (760 Nm) at 3,000–5,250 rpm

• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch (Portofino) / 8-speed dual-clutch (Portofino M)

• 0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds (Portofino) / 3.1–3.4 seconds (Portofino M)

• Top Speed: Over 199 mph (320 km/h)

• Weight: 3,668 lbs (1,664 kg), 80 kg lighter than the California T

• Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, 19 mpg combined (Portofino M)

• Dimensions: Length: 4,586 mm, Width: 1,938 mm, Height: 1,318 mm, Wheelbase: 2,670 mm

• Cargo Space: 10.3 cubic feet (292 liters)

• Seating: 2+2 (four seats, though rear seats are best for small children or storage)

The Portofino M introduces a Race mode, a new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a Side-Slip Control system for enhanced handling. Its retractable hardtop transforms it from coupe to convertible in just 14 seconds, even at speeds up to 25 mph.

Market Price and Value

The Ferrari Portofino’s price reflects its status as a luxury supercar, but it remains one of Ferrari’s more accessible models. As of 2025, pricing varies by region and customization:

• Base Price (Portofino): Approximately $215,000–$230,000 (USD) or ₹3.5 crore (India, ex-showroom).

• Base Price (Portofino M): Starts at around $226,000–$250,000 (USD), £179,440 (UK), or RM 860,000 (Malaysia).

• Used Market: 2020–2022 models range from $245,000 to $330,000, depending on mileage and condition, with examples like a 2020 Portofino in Grigio Titanio listed at $244,995 and a 2022 model at $329,999.

• Customization: Ferrari offers extensive personalization, including 28 color options (e.g., Rosso Portofino, Giallo Modena), leather upholstery, and carbon fiber accents. Options like Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) can significantly increase the price.

While not cheap, the Portofino is competitively priced against rivals like the Aston Martin DB11 Volante ($200,000+), Bentley Continental GT Convertible ($250,000+), and Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet ($220,000+). Its blend of performance and daily usability offers strong value for a Ferrari.

Pros of the Ferrari Portofino

1. Stunning Performance: The twin-turbo V8 delivers exhilarating acceleration and a top speed exceeding 199 mph, making it a true supercar. The Portofino M’s 612 hp and Race mode enhance track-ready dynamics.

2. Versatile Design: The retractable hardtop allows seamless transitions between coupe and convertible, with a wind deflector reducing cabin turbulence by 30%.

3. Daily Usability: Unlike hardcore Ferraris, the Portofino is designed for everyday driving, with a comfortable ride, adaptive suspension, and a spacious trunk for golf clubs or luggage.

4. Luxurious Interior: The cabin features premium leather, an ergonomic layout, and a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The optional passenger display adds a unique touch.

5. Customization Options: With dozens of colors, wheel designs, and interior trims, buyers can create a bespoke Portofino tailored to their taste.

6. Advanced Technology: Features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera (optional) enhance safety and convenience.

7. Strong Resale Value: Ferraris hold their value well, and the Portofino’s popularity ensures demand in the used market.

Cons of the Ferrari Portofino

1. High Cost of Options: Features like Apple CarPlay and ADAS are expensive add-ons, with CarPlay costing significantly more than in mainstream cars.

2. Cramped Rear Seats: The 2+2 layout is impractical for adults, better suited for children or storage.

3. Mediocre Infotainment: The touchscreen lacks the intuitiveness of modern smartphone-integrated systems, and its low placement can be distracting.

4. Fuel Economy: With 16–19 mpg, the Portofino is not economical, though this is typical for supercars.

5. Maintenance Costs: As a high-performance vehicle, maintenance requires specialized parts and service, increasing ownership costs.

6. Less Engaging Steering: Some reviews note the electric steering lacks the feedback of other Ferraris, making it less sharp for enthusiasts.

7. Discontinuation: The Portofino M has been replaced by the Roma Spider in Ferrari’s lineup, potentially affecting future support and parts availability.

Recent Reviews and Owner Feedback

Recent reviews praise the Portofino for its blend of GT comfort and Ferrari performance. Evo Magazine called it “an ideal blend of GT comfort and Ferrari performance,” while Top Gear noted the Portofino M’s “evolution rather than revolution” approach, highlighting its daily usability and refined dynamics. Owners on Kelley Blue Book give it a 5/5 rating, with one calling it “the perfect high-end daily driver” for its smooth ride and handling. However, some criticize the lack of a manual transmission and minor issues like the radio activating on startup.

Car and Driver’s 2023 review of the Portofino M emphasized its “lavish and comfortable driving experience” and fluid handling, though they noted the exhaust note can be intrusive at cruising speeds. MotorTrend appreciated its livability but suggested buyers seeking sharper performance look at models like the F8 Tributo. Overall, the Portofino is celebrated for its versatility but occasionally critiqued for not being the most engaging Ferrari.

Why Buy the Ferrari Portofino?

The Ferrari Portofino is the perfect choice for those seeking a supercar that doesn’t compromise on luxury or practicality. Its stunning design, inspired by the Italian Riviera, turns heads whether the top is up or down. The powerful V8 engine delivers heart-pounding performance, while the comfortable interior and advanced features make it suitable for daily drives or long-distance tours. Compared to rivals, the Portofino offers a unique blend of Ferrari heritage and accessibility, making it an excellent entry point to the brand.

For buyers who want a car that’s as much about lifestyle as performance, the Portofino delivers. Its customization options let you create a one-of-a-kind vehicle, and its resale value ensures it’s a smart investment. While it has drawbacks, such as high option costs and limited rear seating, these are minor compared to the joy of owning a Ferrari. Whether you’re cruising coastal highways or tackling twisty mountain roads, the Portofino promises an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

The Ferrari Portofino is a masterpiece of engineering and design, offering the thrill of a supercar with the practicality of a grand tourer. Its powerful V8, retractable hardtop, and luxurious interior make it a standout in its class. While it comes with a premium price tag and some minor flaws, the Portofino’s blend of performance, style, and usability makes it a compelling choice for anyone considering a luxury convertible. If you’re ready to embrace la dolce vita behind the wheel, the Ferrari Portofino is calling your name.