Ferrari 575M Handling GTC
Looking for proof that a certain Mr Schumacher isn't going to be knocked off the top of the F1 tree this season? Simply take a look at his latest company vehicle! This is the new 575M Handling GTC - and despite the clumsy name, it's arguably Ferrari's finest current road car.
Ferrari has channelled all its F1 know-how into this special 575M. Incredibly effective carbon ceramic brakes, aggressive suspension and sticky tyres give the car exceptional grip, while new wheels and louder exhausts increase the visual and aural drama.
Looking for proof that a certain Mr Schumacher isn't going to be knocked off the top of the F1 tree this season? Simply take a look at his latest company vehicle! This is the new 575M Handling GTC - and despite the clumsy name, it's arguably Ferrari's finest current road car.
Hot on the heels of the spectacular Enzo supercar and the 360 Challenge Stradale, this uprated machine combines the traditional front-mounted V12 layout with cutting-edge brake technology and a range of performance-enhancing tweaks to amazing effect.
Aimed at Ferrari's most dedicated customers, the Handling GTC option costs £16,500 on top of the 575M Maranello's not inconsiderable starting price of £160,845. For that you get a host of go-faster upgrades, including new Brembo Carbon Ceramic brakes - a massive 398mm in diameter on the front - similar to those seen on the Enzo and 360 Challenge Stradale.
Also in the package is stiffer suspension, softer, stickier Pirelli PZero Corsa tyres and revised software for the F1-style paddleshift transmission. Electronically controlled dampers, lightweight 19-inch alloys and a louder exhaust system complete the picture.
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Cash £12,780Most impressive of the changes are the carbon ceramic brakes, which offer increased stopping power and resist overheating. They also weigh less and wear at a fraction of the rate of normal steel discs. Alterations to the chassis have also worked wonders, endowing this 575M with breathtaking grip and poise on twisty, bumpy hill roads and smooth carriageways alike.
The comprehensive range of tweaks further sharpens the Ferrari's sporting edge, without ruining its ability as one of the world's best GT cars. Although the ride is firmer, it remains acceptably comfortable, while the increased sound from the exhausts is far from intrusive.
As it's deemed to be more than up to the job of powering the HGTC, the engine has been left untouched; that's to say the awesome 5.7-litre V12 delivers a mighty 515bhp and 630Nm of torque. Mated to the latest-generation paddleshift gearbox, this makes the newcomer extraordinarily quick, with a maximum speed of 202mph and eye-watering acceleration. Only an average fuel consumption of a fraction more than 12mpg spoils the fun.
We also had the opportunity to put the car through its paces around Ferrari's famous Fiorano test circuit in Italy. While our time was many seconds off Schumacher's Sunday afternoon efforts, the supercar put on a storming show, underlining the manufacturer's claim that it should more than satisfy customers who enjoy the occasional trackday.
Costing the best part of £180,000, this ultimate 575M is a fantasy for most of us. However, for those who can afford it, the Handling GTC option box is one that's well worth ticking.
