Overview
The supercar genre thrives on theatrical styling and performance, and the 2021 Ferrari F8 Tributo and Spider exemplify both. Ferrari dresses each variant with exotic bodywork, and the Spider’s removable top provides an extra visceral experience. Mounted behind the driver is a 710-hp twin-turbo V-8 that feeds the rear wheels through a paddle-shifted, seven-speed automatic transmission. Uncorking the F8’s V-8 yields hair-raising acceleration and a thrilling soundtrack, but the latter is less exciting than the Italian automaker’s best work. Still, the magicians in Maranello have assembled a charming chassis that bewitches the driver with amazing agility and tactility. These defining characteristics, combined with their unmistakable designs, make the 2021 F8 Tributo and Spider truly special machines.
What’s New for 2021?
For 2021, Ferrari doesn’t make any significant alterations to the F8 Tributo or Spider. In other news, the Italian automaker has added the beautiful Ferrari Roma to its portfolio this year.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Ferrari F8 Tributo and Spider come in a single trim that’s loaded with enough amenities to make either body style a desirable choice for shoppers in this segment. We prefer the Spider convertible because it’s less expensive than the coupe and feels even more exotic. As one would expect of a high-dollar supercar, Ferrari offers options that allow for a customized look, including an extensive selection of upholstery choices. Also, upgrades such as titanium exhaust pipes and exterior carbon-fiber components are offered, and you can choose from brake calipers in a host of different colors.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The F8 Tributo and Spider are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8 that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. All models are rear-wheel drive, and a seven-speed automatic transmission changes the gears. This Ferrari is quick enough to make an indelible impression. We’ve driven the coupe on a racetrack in its native Italy and on roads on our shores. We’ve also wheeled the drop-top variant, which proved to be as quick and fun as it looks. Handling is precise and rewarding. The Ferrari’s engine hits a pleasantly sonorous note as it does its work, and the brakes do a masterful job of bringing it to a swift halt.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates the 2021 F8 Tributo and Spider will get 15 mpg in the city and between 18 and 19 mpg on the highway. That’s slightly better mileage than you’ll get with rivals such as the Lamborghini Huracán (up to 13/18 mpg). We haven’t had a chance to run the Ferrari on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route—part of our extensive testing regimen—so we can’t evaluate its real-world mpg.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The F8 Tributo and Spider provide seating for two passengers within a cabin that’s roomy enough to provide pleasant, comfortable accommodations. Contrasting stitching and sporty design cues help give the interior a performance-themed aesthetic that matches that of the car’s sheetmetal. The cabin’s most notable shortcoming concerns rearward visibility in the coupe. The view out the back is impeded by the rear window’s louvers. Many exotics are very low on cargo space, and the F8 is no exception. Cargo capacity stands at seven cubic feet in the coupe.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The F8 coupe and convertible come with a six-speaker audio system as well as Bluetooth phone and streaming audio. The list of standard tech features also includes a pair of LCD monitors and an integrated navigation system with a voice-activation feature. The list of options includes a 7.0-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay integration is offered, but Android Auto isn’t available.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Ferrari F8 Tributo and Spider haven’t received overall crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Supercars often come up short in the area of driver-assistance technology, and this is the case with the F8. Amenities such as a blind-spot warning system aren’t offered. Key safety features include:
- Standard backup camera
- Standard rear parking sensors
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
When it comes to its limited and powertrain warranties, Ferrari’s coverage matches the protection provided by Lamborghini. However, Ferrari surpasses this rival by providing seven years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. Lamborghini vehicles do not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers three years of unlimited miles
- Powertrain warranty covers three years of unlimited miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for seven years of unlimited miles
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