Does the Ferrari F80 Deserve the Criticism?

Since its release last month, the Ferrari F80 has been receiving nothing but harsh criticism by automotive enthusiasts around the globe. Reasons stated include the change to a 3.0L V6 engine, the “mustache-like” mask across the hood, and the lack of exhaust tone that separated its predecessors from the rest of the hypercars of their time.

The reality of the situation is that European regulations, along with increased hybrid technology, have pushed automakers like Ferrari to relinquish their previous ways of automotive engineering. We would have liked to have seen Ferrari use the V8 platform from the F8 Tributo and Roma, but it is understandable that the Italian powerhouse used the Le Mans-winning 499P V6 in their flagship, halo vehicle. Not to mention, the 3 electric motors that contribute almost 300hp to the vehicle’s output seem to be a perfect addition to this platform.

While purists imagine their perfect Ferrari featuring a naturally aspirated V12, manual transmission, or loud exhaust system, the automotive world is moving towards innovation and efficiency at a remarkably fast pace. Some may resent this move towards smaller displacement and hybrid technology, but the fact of the matter is that larger engines have maximized their potential already; it is now time to accept and usher in a new era of automotive innovation, and the Ferrari F80 will prove whether this change is necessary or not.