2023 Ferrari Portofino M
Overview
The Portofino M hardtop-convertible is one of the more restrained models in the Ferrari lineup, aimed as much at comfortable cruising on sunny days as it is at high-speed thrills. Our time with the front-engine Italian grand tourer proved that it provides a lavish and comfortable driving experience. Its driving dynamics are fluid thanks to a surprisingly supple ride and well-coordinated handling. Its around-town behavior is docile. But if you want to crank up the excitement the Portofino is ready. It’s twin-turbo V-8 pumps out 612 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque and works with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to push its sleek sheetmetal through the air with gusto. It even has a driving mode labelled “race.” We estimate that the fierce power delivery is enough push it to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds. And of course, the Portofino struts attention-getting design and a handsome interior slathered in rich leather. It even hints at practicality with a tiny rear seat. But not too much practicality. This is a Ferrari, after all.
What’s New for 2023?
Ferrari hasn’t made any changes to the Portofino M hard-top convertible for the 2023 model year.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
In a world where some high-end brands—cough, Porsche—offer dizzyingly long lists of add-ons, Ferrari makes life easy by limiting your choices. We’d spec ours with the optional front seats that come with ventilation and heating, and we’d add the advanced driver tech, too, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, and more. Ferrari offers aluminum footrests and a passenger display, but we don’t see much of a need for them. Beyond those few options, what remains is to pick the color of the body, interior, brake calipers, gauges, and exhaust pipes as well as the design of the wheels.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A Ferrari is defined by its engine as much as its styling, and the twin-turbo 3.9-liter V-8 that hides beneath the Portofino’s elongated hood is excellent. The engine sends 612 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. But the claimed top speed of “over 199 mph” and estimated zero-to-60-mph time we estimate to be 3.1 seconds aren’t what’s most impressive; it’s the unmistakable timbre that erupts from the exhaust tips as the Portofino’s tach needle charges towards the engine’s 7500-rpm redline. The Portofino M we drove in the Florida Keys showcased the convertible’s comfortable ride and remarkable body control courtesy of its well-tuned adaptive dampers. While its electrically assisted steering delivered satisfying feedback, the setup isn’t as engaging as what Porsche provides in its sports cars. Every Portofino also features carbon-ceramic brakes that ensure this hefty GT can quickly be hauled to a stop.
More on the Portofino Convertible
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2023 Portofino M is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Both figures fall short of V-8–powered rivals such as the Bentley Continental GT (16/26 mpg city/highway) and the Aston Martin DB11(18/24 mpg city/highway). Since we haven’t tested the Portofino or either of those alternatives on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can’t say how efficient they are in the real world. For more information about the Portofino’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Portofino delights the eyes with a fabulous design and magnificent materials. Its varied surfaces are stitched together with handsome leather, and the 18-way power-adjustable front seats are sculpted to provide comfort and support. The buckets can also be equipped with ventilation and neck-warming functions. Neat. There’s a handy wind deflector that helps keep the cabin quiet at speed when the top is dropped, too. With a pair of small bucket seats behind the front passengers, the convertible Ferrari can technically transport up to four people. However, we don’t recommend that anyone spend time back there; use the space for your gym bag. A useful tray is positioned at the front of the center console for storing small items, and there’s even a place to store a beverage nearby. With the top up, there’s enough room to fit golf clubs inside the Portofino’s trunk. With the top down, it’s a challenge to store much more than a briefcase in it.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
The infotainment system on a Ferrari is like a spare tire on a Buick: it’s nice to have when you need it, but not something anyone will ask about. Still, the Portofino does include a 10.2-inch touchscreen that is mounted in the center of the dashboard. We found the unit to be responsive during our limited exposure, and the optional touchscreen that faces the front passenger lets them view performance data and even operate the car’s navigation system.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The sultry Italian convertible offers driver-assistance technology, but none of it is standard. For more information about the Portofino’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Available automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Available blind-spot monitoring Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Ferrari’s warranty coverage aligns with that of other high-end automakers such as Lamborghini. It also offers 15 years of extended coverage for extra coin. Ferrari boasts the best complimentary maintenance program, too, with seven years of coverage regardless of mileage.
Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Complimentary maintenance is covered for seven years and unlimited miles
Specifications
Specifications
2021 Ferrari Portofino M
Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door convertible
PRICE
Base: $226,000
ENGINE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
injection
Displacement: 235 in3, 3855 cm3
Power: 612 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque: 561 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 105.1 in
Length: 180.9 in
Width: 76.3 in
Height: 51.9 in
Trunk Volume: 10 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 3900 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 3.1 sec
100 mph: 6.8 sec
1/4-Mile: 10.9 sec
Top Speed: 199 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (MFR’S EST)
Combined/City/Highway: 19/16/23 mpg
More Features and Specs
