Ferrari 599 GTB Coupé (06 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 10 December 2008
Put simply the 599GTB is one of the best supercars ever made. It's superbly engineered, beautifully styled, frighteningly quick and an absolute dream to drive. Add in the mix its sheer head turning ability and this is the complete package. Unfortunately it also comes at a high price while servicing and fuel bills are equally astronomical. But a two-year waiting list for new models proves that for some people, price is no object for the ultimate supercar. Power comes from the 6.0-litre V12 that was first used in the famous Enzo, giving the 599GTB an astonishing 0-62mph time of just 3.7 seconds and a theoretical top speed of 205mph.
4 out of 5

Comfort

Supercars aren't renowned for being comfortable - typically performance and handling are the priorities. But unusually the 599GTB manages to blend all three elements without any compromise. The ride is smooth enough so that this Ferrari is refined enough to use everyday while the wonderfully finished cabin is sporty yet sumptuous. The Carozzeria Scaglietti options programme means you can opt for sportier seats or even full racing-style harnesses. However there's little point unless you intend to frequent track days - they'll only limit the car's usability and the standard seats offer ample support.

3.5 out of 5

Practicality

Here's where the front-engined layout really pays off. This is still a vast car, with a long sloping bonnet, but visibility is far better than many supercars (although parking sensors cost extra). There's even a proper boot located at the back of the car and with 320 litres of luggage space it can carry as much as a family hatchback.

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How does the boot space compare?

358 litres
Ferrari 599 GTB Coupé (06 on)
320 litres
4 out of 5

Behind the wheel

The 599's driving position feels odd at first, the wheel seems to be floating in mid air, its column sprouting from a strangely high-set dashboard leaving knees exposed. The rev counter dominates the view through the steering wheel's spokes but if you feel you need further help you can order a carbon fibre-rimmed wheel the top of which houses a set of lights that illuminate as you near the red line. To the left of the instruments is a large LCD display that can show information ranging from tyre pressure, to engine temperature and even lap times.