The Ferrari Testarossa remains one of the most iconic names in automotive history. Born in the 1980s, it became a cultural symbol of excess, speed, and style—forever tied to Miami Vice. Now, Ferrari revives the moniker with the new Ferrari 849 Testarossa, and it’s raising eyebrows for all the right reasons.
A New Era of Testarossa
Unlike many revivals, the 849 Testarossa isn’t a retro tribute. Instead, it evolves directly from the Ferrari SF90, carrying forward cutting-edge hybrid technology while injecting even more performance and personality.
This is Ferrari’s fastest regular-production model, delivering over 1,000 horsepower. The power comes not from a traditional V12, but from a sophisticated setup combining three electric motors with a twin-turbo V8. Add an on-demand all-wheel-drive system and revised tuning for a more soulful soundtrack, and the 849 emerges as louder, sharper, and more thrilling than the SF90.
Design: Retro Hints with Modern Swagger
Visually, the 849 Testarossa borrows from the radical design language of the SF90 while nodding to the wide-bodied Testarossa of the past. There’s a distinctive black line at the nose, flared geometric surfaces, and aggressive aero work. Compared to the sleek SF90, the 849 looks brutal, muscular, and dripping with swagger.
The Spider variant, with its open-top allure, practically screams Miami Vice. It’s easy to imagine it cruising South Beach, chosen by the wealthy for both style and speed. Compared with the clinical precision of the SF90, the 849 feels more flamboyant, more cinematic, and unmistakably Ferrari.
Interior: Back to Basics with a Twist
Step inside, and Ferrari blends modern tech with nostalgic details. A classic red starter button, integrated gear-gate, and mechanical touches evoke the brand’s heritage. Meanwhile, a redesigned steering wheel and advanced HMI system bring the interface up to modern standards.
Despite its performance focus, the 849 isn’t stripped down. There’s ample space, everyday usability, and the ability to glide silently in full-electric mode when needed. Ferrari has ensured that even with four-digit horsepower, this car isn’t just a track monster—it’s surprisingly livable.
Performance: Everyday Usability, Supercar Madness
With 1,000+ bhp, absurd acceleration is a given. Yet, thanks to hybrid engineering, the 849 Testarossa can also cruise quietly in EV mode. It’s this dual nature—wild and restrained—that makes it a compelling evolution of Ferrari’s future.
Of course, with that power, expect speeding tickets to arrive almost as fast as the car itself. Prices are set to exceed $500,000, but for Ferrari buyers, that’s hardly a barrier. Unlike the limited-run Ferrari F80, the 849 will see broader production—though expect allocations to be claimed well in advance.
Conclusion: The Spirit of Miami Vice, Reinvented
The new Ferrari 849 Testarossa isn’t about nostalgia—it’s about evolution. By blending retro-inspired design cues, hybrid technology, and everyday usability, Ferrari has created a supercar with both swagger and substance. It’s the modern Miami Vice car: bold, brash, and built to turn every drive into a spectacle.
