Remember the Ferrari Testarossa? It’s one of the iconic sports cars of the 1980s that challenged the likes of the Lamborghini Countach and the Porsche 911 Turbo. By the early 1990s, Ferrari laid it to rest. However, the Italian prancing horse resurrected it recently by introducing the 2026 Ferrari 849 Testarossa.
Ferrari positions the 849 Testarossa as the successor to the Ferrari SF90 Stradale at the top of the range. This new flagship model represents an evolution in Ferrari’s design and technology. Ferrari chose to revive the Testarossa nameplate to carry a piece of the brand’s iconic history while breaking new records to carve its future.
While the Testarossa name gained huge popularity in the 1980s, it goes a long way back – in the 1950s. Back then, Ferrari referred to its racecars with red-painted cylinder heads as “Testarossas.” This motorsport-rooted nickname later evolved as an actual model in the 1980s in the form of the 1984 Ferrari Testarossa. By reviving the name for the 849, Ferrari is sending a clear message that defines a link between its past icon and its modern technology.
At the heart of the Ferrari 849 Testarossa is a hybridized powertrain that’s built around a completely re-engineered twin-turbo V8 engine seated just behind the driver. On its own, the V8 delivers 830 hp, which is 50 hp more than the outgoing SF90 Stradale. Combined with three electric motors – two at the front axle and one between the engine and the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission – the powertrain produces a total output of 1,050 hp. Its all-electric mode, meanwhile, can reach up to 25 km of range, thanks to a 7.45 kWh lithium-ion battery with an inverter.
As a result, the hybrid setup allows the 849 Testarossa to achieve a 0-100 km/h acceleration rate of around 2.3 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h. Ferrari is so particular about these performance numbers that it subjected the 849 Testarossa to a series of tests at its own proving ground in Fiorano, Italy. There, the Ferrari 849 Testarossa clocked in a best lap time of 1:17.05 around the test track.
To handle the demands of the powertrain, Ferrari also improved the chassis. The Ferrari 849 Testarossa debuts the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE) system, which is able to predict vehicle dynamics in real-time to provide more intuitive handling. The ABS Evo braking system, suspension geometry revisions, and updated calibration across multiple electronic controls all contribute to an improved balance in performance, driving precision, and vehicle responsiveness.
On the outside, Ferrari states that the 849 Testarossa’s styling draws inspiration from the brand’s Berlinetta mid-rear-engined V8 sports car prototypes of the 1970s, but with a modern twist. It flaunts a body that reflects Ferrari’s latest design strategy, which involves implementing geometric volumes and sculpted surfaces that evoke functionality and a striking presence. Aerodynamic enhancements provide an additional 25 kg of downforce while improving system cooling efficiency by 15% compared to the SF90 Stradale.
For a more spirited drive, the 849 Testarossa comes equipped with a set of tires that have been co-developed by top brands in the industry, including Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone. As a result, customers can choose a set of standard Pirelli PZero R or standard Bridgestone Potenza Sport. Alternatively, a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R tires can also be fitted, although this is by request only.
The inside, meanwhile, adopts an enveloping layout. It features a “sail” motif with an integrated gear change gate, inspired by the Ferrari F80. The layout is complemented by a new steering wheel with physical controls for a more engaging driving experience. And yes, the familiar red Ferrari Manettino switch is present. Now called the eManetinno, the red switch is where various driving modes such as eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify are selected as needed.
Finally, the Ferrari 348 Testarossa comes in three forms: the 348 Testarossa coupe, the 348 Testarossa Spider, which is the roadster version, and the performance-oriented 348 Testarossa Assetto Fiorano. The Assetto Fiorano is enhanced with things such as a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires, as well as multimatic dampers, carbon-fiber wheels, aerodynamic elements, and weight-saving solutions. As a result, the Assetto Fiorano is 30 kg lighter than the coupe.
