Posted August 27, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour Editorials

Prancing Horse Passion: 599 GTB Fiorano

…she’s the fastest V12 berlinetta out of Maranello

The Prancing Horse has an adrenalin rush…the stable will never be the same again. With all of the hallmarks of a thoroughbred, meet the cutest little filly to motor out of Maranello – the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano – it will prance its way into your fancy. It is the highest performance V12 berlinetta ever built at Maranello. This mid-front mounted engine two-seater set a new standard in terms of sport, design, and motoring pleasure. The 599 GTB Fiorano was built from 2006 until 2012.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano was the Flagship model designed in collaboration with Pininfarina. It was introduced at the February 2006 Geneva Motor Show. F140, or Ferrari 599 uses its displacement of 5999 cc as its name. The power output exceeds 100 hp per litre of displacement and is naturally aspirated without the assistance of turbochargers or superchargers.

Virtually prancing…

The engine is a solo concerto of sound that creates a crescendo of performance. Engine sounds are tuned to eliminate mechanical resonance. The intake manifold and exhaust system harmonize to emit the ‘throaty V12 growl’ of authority. The aluminium alloy 6.0 litre 48-valve Tipo F140C V12 engine produces a prodigious 620 hp @7,600 rpm packing a prolific punch with 608 Nm of peak torque @ 5,600 rpm. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a potent performer in every respect. It set a new record for Ferrari’s GT cars as the fastest roadcar of all time.

This ‘lil filly sprints from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, 0-100 mph in 7.2 seconds with a top speed of 206 mph. It does the ¼ mile @ 127 mph in 11.4 seconds.

The 599 GTB Fiorano was the first to use the new F1 technology “SuperFast” 6-speed gearbox. It cuts overall shift times up to 100 ms. It coordinates gearshifts and the clutch by simultaneously implementing the various stages involved. This technology is integrated with the stability control.

Its intuitive software estimates the maximum available grip in advance comparing the information with vehicle dynamics stored in its control system. This adjusts the vehicle’s reactions optimizing traction by modulating power delivery. The result…it holds the road like a magnet for smooth and predictable handling. It provides maximum grip out of bends with a 20 percent increase in acceleration; compared to traditional traction and stability control systems.

Technically Speaking

Adaptive/semi-active suspension systems are “thinking” suspensions that constantly analyze input from its network. It is monitored by an array of sensors. This sophisticated system is so fast in response time that it can soften the damper of a single wheel over uneven pavement. Magnetorheological damping control allows the shock absorbers to be continually controlled adapting to road conditions. The fluid’s viscosity is modified by applying an electronically magnetized field.

An on-board computer monitors the dampers’ compliance characteristics controlled by electromagnetic fields. Magnetorheological damping is controlled by algorithms specially designed for the purpose. When the fluid is brought into a magnetic field it becomes stiff; therefore, the properties of the damper changes absorbing the shock or vibration.

Algorithms control the yield point shear stress of the fluid, with the electric current provided by the magnetic field. The damper fluid contains metal particles. An increase of current flow into the damper raises the compression/rebound rates, and a decrease softens the effect of the dampers.

Magneto rheological damping, together with contemporary electronics, change the stiffness of all wheels independently. This keeps the tires perpendicular to the road during cornering. The network optimizes traction and overall control which is paramount at speeds attained by this little filly. Semi-active suspension management provides a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. The result is reduced roll and greater control while accelerating, braking, and cornering.

The 21^st century supercar

The 599 GTB Fiorano boasts the cabin of a bespoke supercar. The F1 inspired steering wheel manettino vehicle dynamics control switch, was developed for this model exclusively. This convenience coordinates the important functions. This includes the stability and F1-Trac traction control system, the F1 SuperFast sequential gearbox, and the SCM (Magneto rheological suspension control) fluid suspension and engine management controls. The manettino settings can be calibrated to snowy, icy, wet, or low grip traction situations. It also provides Sport and Race settings. There is also a central rev counter with a choice of red or yellow background with solid aluminium passenger controls.

The Prancing Horse is the symbol of luxury, speed…and wealth

This is a 21^st century supercar. The “Gran Turismo Berlinetta” is a highly personalized work of automotive art. Its racing options include Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brakes, four-point harness & cockpit roll bar, and Enzo Ferrari inspired carbon-fibre steering wheel with LED rev display.

Also available were special carbon-fibre door panel trim, instrument panel, gear stick surround, and door sill kick panels. For added distinction, Scuderia Ferrari shields, Daytona-style seating with perforated inserts, a satellite navigation system with display on instrument panel, and more were available to make this special car even more so…

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is an aerodynamic envelope of precision. It slices through the atmosphere with a drag coefficient of 0.336. The suction created under the car is far superior to the lift generated by the upper part of the architecture. The Cl coefficient of lift is 0.190. Its shiny bodyshell is designed to deliver maximum downforce. It was refined after lengthy testing in a wind tunnel. Every line, every contour, including its overall shape is designed to battle wind.

A masterwork from the master craftsmen

Pininfarina designers helped to create an automotive masterpiece…the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a formidable supercar in every respect. The Prancing Horse – in svelte aerodynamic architecture – is the highest performance V12 berlinetta ever built at Maranello. This magnificent mid-front engine two-seater set a new standard in terms of sport, design, and motoring pleasure. This high-performance filly slices through the atmosphere with a mere drag coefficient of 0.336.

F1 inspired technology abounds. From its sophisticated Magnetorheological fluid suspension, its 6-speed SuperFast gearbox…to its sure-footed F1-Trac stability system, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a showcase of engineering excellence. Vehicle dynamics coordinate with the driver, to adjust the vehicle’s reaction resulting in smooth, predictable handling with maximum traction and stability. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is yet another supercar to add to the Ferrari Hall of Fame –