The Ferrari Roma is celebrated for its stunning design and exhilarating performance, but beneath its elegant exterior lies a wealth of advanced engineering. A key element in delivering the Roma’s dynamic driving experience is its sophisticated gearbox and engine technology, meticulously crafted for both responsiveness and efficiency.
Advanced 8-Speed Gearbox: Precision and Speed
Drawing inspiration from the formidable SF90 Stradale, the Ferrari Roma features an 8-speed gearbox built upon a dual-clutch oil bath architecture. This design choice immediately signals a focus on rapid and seamless gear changes. While sharing its foundation with the SF90’s transmission, Ferrari engineers have tailored it specifically for the Roma. This includes implementing longer gear ratios, optimizing the gearbox for the Roma’s grand touring character. Notably, unlike the SF90’s electric motor-driven reverse, the Roma incorporates a traditional reverse gear within the gearbox itself.
Further refinements include a clutch module that is remarkably 20% smaller in size yet engineered to handle a substantial 35% increase in torque. The transmission software also sees significant upgrades, benefiting from a more powerful ECU and tighter integration with the engine management system. The result of these advancements is demonstrably quicker, smoother, and more consistently executed gear shifts, enhancing the overall driving fluidity of the Ferrari Roma.
Zero Turbo Lag: Instantaneous Response
A hallmark of the Ferrari Roma, and indeed the modern Ferrari range, is the near-instantaneous throttle response. This responsiveness is achieved through a combination of key engine design features. The flat-plane crankshaft plays a crucial role, its compact dimensions and lower rotating masses contributing to improved fluid dynamics. Similarly, the compact turbines are designed with a lower moment of inertia, allowing them to spool up rapidly. Twin-scroll technology further enhances responsiveness by maximizing the pressure of exhaust pulses for optimal power delivery. Finally, the single-piece cast exhaust manifold, with equal length pipes, optimizes pressure waves reaching the turbine, minimizing energy losses and maximizing efficiency.
Variable Boost Management: Tailored Power Delivery
The Ferrari Roma utilizes Variable Boost Management, a sophisticated control software developed by Ferrari engineers. This system intelligently adjusts torque delivery based on the selected gear. In lower gears, the system provides a steeper torque curve, resulting in a feeling of smooth and consistent acceleration from the moment you depress the accelerator. As you progress through the gears, the engine progressively unleashes more of its potential, culminating in a peak torque output of 760 Nm in 7th and 8th gears.
This intelligent torque management allows Ferrari to employ longer gear ratios in the higher gears, contributing to reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions during cruising. Simultaneously, the carefully sculpted torque curve in the lower gears ensures that the Ferrari Roma always feels responsive and eager to accelerate, providing a dynamic and engaging driving experience across the entire rev range.
Distinctive Exhaust Line: The Ferrari Soundtrack
True to Ferrari tradition, the Ferrari Roma boasts a unique and evocative engine soundtrack. The exhaust system has been newly designed with significant changes to achieve this distinctive sound. The elimination of the two rear silencers is a key modification, drastically reducing backpressure in the exhaust system. The by-pass valves also feature a new oval geometry, further minimizing exhaust backpressure and enhancing the overall sound quality. Finally, the proportional continuous and progressive by-pass valve control system dynamically adjusts the exhaust note based on driving conditions, ensuring the Ferrari Roma delivers an appropriately thrilling soundtrack whether cruising through city streets or pushing its limits on the open road.
