In a surprise for many, Ferrari has unveiled the 488 GTE and 488 GT3 race cars at the Ferrari Mondiali event at Mugello. The two cars will make their racing debuts at the Rolex 24 Hour race at Daytona in January.
Mechanically speaking, the two models are very similar but feature different power outputs and aerodynamic packages as per the different regulations for GTE and GT3 racing. Powering both the Ferrari 488 GT3 and 488 GTE is the same 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine as the road-going car. The 488 GTE pumps out a total of 485 hp due to a power restrictor while the 488 GT3 delivers slightly more, 550 hp to be exact which is still 110 hp less than the road car..
Elsewhere, both models are based around an all-aluminium chassis with a roll cage. Additionally, the 488 racing duo come standard in left hand drive and both utilise an adjustable single profile rear wing as well as a smooth rear undertray and prominent rear diffuser.
The Ferrari 488 GTE model pictured has been adorned with a racing livery so it’s easy to pick from the 488 GT3.