When it comes to tuning some of Maranello’s finest one particular company instantly comes to mind. Yes, I’m talking about German tuning firm Novitec and it was only a matter of time before they got their hands on the Prancing Horse’s newest entry level offering, the Portofino.
Novitec has developed three different performance kits which allows the baby Ferrari to produce a mind blowing 674hp and 871 Nm of torque. The performance figures also show improvement with the Novitec Portofino capable of going from 0-100 km/h (0-62 MPH) in an impressive 3,2 seconds and on to a top speed of 202 MPH (325 km/h) which is a 0,3 second and 5 km/h improvement over the factory standard Portofino.
Novitec started off by developing special mapping for their two plug and play N-Tronic modules that are adapted to the baby Ferrari’s electronic engine controls. The entry level base kit allows the Portofino to produce 658hp and 851 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. The improvements don’t stop with the engine, a high-performance exhaust system is available as well with or without active exhaust flap sound management. This modification’s purpose isn’t just to give the driver and admiring petrolheads an eargasm, it also increases the power output and saves at least 24 Ibs (11 Kg).
The German tuning firm have also improved the Portofino’s handling characteristics by installing sport springs which lower the ride height by approximately 1,37 inches (35mm) however, the hydraulic front lift system gives the driver freedom to raise the front by 1,57 inches (40mm). The front will lower automatically when the car reaches 49 MPH (80 km/h).
The Portofino’s appearance hasn’t been left untouched either. Novitec have fine tuned a unique range of bare carbon aerodynamic components which include carbon fibre mirror caps, bonnet air intake inserts, side air vent surrounds and front spoiler. A carbon fibre rear spoiler lip, rear bumper attachment and Novitec rocker panels are present too. The German tuning firm worked with Vossen to co-develop the wheels which are available in two different designs and a vast array of colours. The wheels are 21/22-inch (front/rear) in size and are wrapped in Pirelli custom tyres. The NF8 wheels were designed with aerodynamics in mind and feature slanted pairs of spokes which improve airflow through the arches.
As for the interior, Ferrari owners’ are only limited by their imagination with Novitec catering to their wants when it concerns Alcantara and leather with a vast array of upholstery patterns and colours available.
When it comes to tuning a Ferrari, Novitec are one of the best in the business.
Steve & Chris Parry are contributors from stevespeedza.blogspot.com