Ferrari Roma 2023

When Ferrari unveiled the Roma, the world held its breath. It was a departure from the aggressive, aerodynamic-heavy aesthetic that had defined Maranello’s output for the last decade. Instead, the Roma is a masterclass in "understated sportiness," a vehicle that prioritizes elegance, clean lines, and a certain Roman flair that harks back to the carefree, glamorous lifestyle of the 1950s and 60s. This is the Ferrari for the driver who wants the soul of a supercar but the silhouette of a bespoke Italian suit.

The design

Philosophy of the Roma is centered around the concept of "La Nuova Dolce Vita" the new sweet life. Its exterior is devoid of unnecessary vents or aggressive wings. The front grille is a perforated surface that matches the body color, a bold move that emphasizes the car’s shark-nosed profile. The long hood and the set-back cabin create a classic grand tourer silhouette that is both lithe and muscular. It is a car that looks like it was carved from a single block of metal, with every curve serving a dual purpose of aesthetic beauty and aerodynamic efficiency. The integrated rear spoiler, which remains flush with the body at low speeds and deploys automatically at higher velocities, is a testament to Ferrari’s ability to hide complex engineering behind a facade of simplicity.

At the heart of the Roma lies the award-winning 3.9-liter V8 turbo engine

A member of the engine family that has won International Engine of the Year for four consecutive years. In the Roma, this powerplant produces 612 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. What makes this engine special isn't just the raw numbers; it’s the Variable Boost Management software that adjusts torque delivery based on the gear selected. This gives the car a naturally aspirated feel, with a linear power curve that encourages the driver to climb toward the redline. Paired with the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission derived from the SF90 Stradale the Roma shifts with a crispness that is both violent when you want it and buttery smooth when you’re cruising through a coastal town.

The interior of the Roma

Represents a total redesign of Ferrari’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI). It utilizes a "Dual Cockpit" concept, creating two distinct cells for the driver and the passenger. The driver is greeted by a 16-inch curved digital instrument cluster that is fully customizable, while a vertical 8.4-inch central display handles the infotainment duties. Even the steering wheel has evolved, featuring haptic touch controls that allow the driver to manage almost every aspect of the car without ever moving their hands from the 9 and 3 positions. This tech-heavy approach is balanced by the use of premium materials Frau leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber ensuring that the cabin feels warm and inviting.

Driving a Ferrari Roma is an exercise in versatility. Thanks to its five-position Manettino dial (including a "Race" mode), the car can transform from a comfortable daily driver into a precision instrument on a mountain pass. It is remarkably approachable, designed for those who might find the mid-engine Ferraris too intimidating for a weekend getaway. With a decent-sized trunk for a supercar and a 2+ seating arrangement, it invites you to take the long way home. The Roma isn't just a car; it’s an emotional experience, a reminder that performance and beauty can coexist in perfect harmony, and that the spirit of Italian motoring is very much alive and well.