Through illustrations, Ferrari offers a first look at the 2+2 supercar destined to replace the 456M, before the dramatically penned Italian exotic debuts at the 2004 Detroit auto show in January.
The muscular lines were influenced by the mechanical front engine, rear drive, allowing the alumimun powerplant to be positioned aft of the front axle. For optimum weight distribution, the gearbox will be mounted with the differential at the rear axle.
This configuration allows room to house four passengers in what promises to be an exquisite interior. The luggage capacity is significantly greater than the 456M, allowing well-heeled owners to transport more trading bonds and bottles of vino. The chassis frame and body panels of the 2+2 will be entirely made of aluminium. Ferrari has successfully adopted this material for the 360 Modena and its high strength with low weight offer many advantages for the larger 2+2 model, including enhanced acceleration, braking, handling, safety and stability. Power will come from a sophisticated V-12 engine producing 540 horses, capable of pushing the sleek Ferrari to a top speed beyond 180 mph.