What's all this about?

We've got a new V8 Ferrari. Well, in essence, this is a heavily revised 488 GTB, which in turn was based on the 458 Italia, but don't let that put you off. Because both those cars were sensational. And this thing, called the F8 Tributo, promises to be, too.

Has it got a new engine?

No, it uses the same 3.9-litre biturbo V8 as the 488 GTB, only in the more focused specification of the engine as found in the 488 Pista. Which means 720hp and 770Nm, all propelling 1,330kg of finest Italian thoroughbred. And that, in turn, means startling, searing, sensational pace. The Tributo will hit 62mph from rest in 2.9 seconds, will double that speed from a standstill in 7.8 seconds and is capable of 211mph.

Cor, that's quick! How else has it changed?

Ferrari says the most powerful V8 Berlinetta in its history (in non-special series cars, at any rate) has been 'improved across the board' when compared to the 488 GTB. It has a track-honed aerodynamic pack that can summon up 15 per cent more downforce than the GTB and which is also 10 per cent more efficient, while the F8 Tributo is 40kg lighter than its predecessor. The Side Slip Angle Control of oversteer fun has been updated to v6.1, in order to make the Tributo's greatest talents more accessible to and controllable for all. And then there's the styling.

Which is gorgeous, is it not?

Oh, yes, the Tributo looks magnificent. But note the Lexan rear screen with louvres, a feature that's oh-so-reminiscent of no less an automotive luminary than the god-like Ferrari F40. It has twin rear lamps again and a body-coloured tail, both features that link back to the earliest V8 Berlinettas, such as the 1978 308 GTB. Inside, the cabin gains a new interface, including a seven-inch touchscreen for the passenger, and all of its dashboard, door cards and transmission tunnel have been substantially redesigned from the 488 GTB's cockpit. Anyway, if you want to know more about it, you'll have to wait until the Geneva Motor Show, when it makes its world debut.