THE PAST CROSSES PATHS WITH THE FUTURE
THE ROMA, CONSIDERED THE SUCCESSOR OF THE GT PRODUCED BY FERRARI IN THE 50S AND THE 60S, PROMISES NOSTALGIA WITH ITS RETRO DESIGN WHILE REFLECTING THE FUTURE WITH ITS ULTRAMODERN CABIN.
Ferrari continues to enrich its product range giving the names of different locations (Modena, California, Portofino). The new model called Roma is designed for those who want to experience performance and driving pleasure without the excessive interest that super sport cars attract. The new model, named after the capital of the country of its production, is inspired by the 250 GT model of the ‘60s. It appears before us as an up-to-date interpretation of the 456 introduced in the ‘90s and the 612 model that replaced the latter.
Unlike the brand’s models boasting aggressive lines and wide air input-output, the new member of the Grand Touring (GT for short) class stands out with its simple lines. Its long and forward curved hood, LED headlights with a horizontal line strip for daytime driving (Matrix LED headlights are offered as an option), and its unique blinds design provides for a mature look. The profile view of the body lacks vents and is made up of minimal lines unlike the traditional Ferrari design. In order to maintain its integrity, even the rear wing has been incorporated into the body.
Inside the cabin a perception contrary to the simple exterior design stands out. The design of the cabin appears to reflect future models. Although the retro style of the body creates a contrast with the super modern interior appearance, it still offers a pleasant combination. The
high and wide screen central console which extends to the back consists of two parts that offer both the driver and the passenger personal space. Although this is generally preferred with models that prioritize performance, Ferrari used this formula in Roma which is designed for daily use. The result is utterly impressive.
To ensure those in the passenger seat do not feel excluded there is a personal screen that allows them to control various features from the music system to the air conditioning, seat heating to the navigation computer.
The 16’’ digital screen panel, one of the biggest screens available in cars today, located on the focal point of the cabin, allows quick, easy reading of a variety of data with its curved design. The driver being able to customize the screen according to his/her preferences is another appealing detail. Buttons on the left of the steering wheel, which stands out with its design and is imported from the SF90 Stardale model, control the signals and the headlights as well as allowing speed-locking functions. With the touchscreen surface on the right of the steering wheel you can tour the screen on the central console without taking your hands of the wheel. On the bottom right- hand side of the wheel, there is a five step manettino switch allowing the power generated by the engine to be transferred to the road safely. You can take advantage of the full potential of the vehicle according to need by choosing one of the Wet, Comfort, Sport, Race, and ESC-OFF driving modes.
The stylish 8.4’’ touch screen located on the central console allows you to control different features from informationentertainment to AC, seat heating to navigation. The displays that continue along the front dashboard reveal a visual feast especially during night driving. As can be expected from all the models of this brand, you will not want to leave the interior that is coated with Alcantara, leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum.
There is a reason why Ferrari classifies its cabin as 2+ rather than 2+2. Although the back seat area in the 2+2 configuration is narrow, it allows small children to travel in the back. But as the knee space of the back seats is almost non-existent in the Roma, it appears that they can only be used for storage. Despite this, the limited capacity of the back seats allows the trunk volume to increase up to 272 liters. This already impressive volume can increase up to 345 liters when the back seats are folded down.
Although the Roma may appear sedate at first glance, it quickly changes character when it comes to performance. The turbo- supported V8 engine located in the front with its 3.9 liter volume that generates 612 horsepower, and the dual-clutch 8 forward gearbox allows Roma, which weighs 1,.472 kg, to reach 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds while. 9.4 seconds is enough to reach from 0 to 200 km/h. The maximum speed exceeds 320 km/h. While these figures increase your adrenalin levels, the melody from the exhaust developed specially for this model -as in the case of all Ferrari models- will penetrate your soul.
Considering that you may glide off the road from the excitement caused by the performance and the interior design, Ferrari did not forget to add a Side Slip Control System to the Roma.
The rear spoiler integrated into the bottom of the rear screen, consistent with the general concept of the Roma, can be set to three different heights according to the driver’s style of use at that particular moment, and the driving mode selected from the manettino switch, so it is not visible at all times, thus increasing the car’s downforce gradually.
Knowing that this model would be the choice of those who want simplicity, Ferrari offers customers the option of cancelling the logo from the fenders. The electronic key is another interesting feature of the Roma model. The company logo covers the metal front of the rectangular key that looks as elegant as a S.T. Dupont lighter, while the back is covered in leather.
It is expected that customers who would not normally add Ferrari to their choices due to the brand’s assertive models, will include Roma in to their portfolio due to its design that boasts simpler lines compared to other members of the family. The Italian manufacturer gained with the acceleration at the end of 2019 with five new models and a record profit, and promises us new surprises in 2020. Who knows, we may even see a four-door model!