2023 Ferrari Portofino M

 The 2022 Ferrari Portofino M convertible justifies its nearly quarter-million-dollar price tag with the bravado and exotica that's exemplified by the Italian supercar maker. The Ferrari's sharply sculpted body draws gazes in the light of day, and the sound of its high-revving 612-hp twin-turbo V-8 causes goosebumps in the dark of night. The Portofino M's engine sits ahead of the driver instead of behind, making room for a pair of hilariously small back seats and a rear trunk that's only useful if the folding hardtop isn't folded. What's lost in cargo space is gained in ear ecstasy when the top is dropped and the Portofino M is being raced along a sunny coast or a mountain pass. While the 2022 Portofino M's fuel economy is middling and popular driver assists cost extra, those are likely plebian concerns to those who can afford one of these magnificent machines.

A Ferrari is defined by its engine as much as its styling, and the twin-turbo 3.9-liter V-8 that hides beneath the Portofino's elongated hood is excellent. The engine sends 612 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. But the claimed top speed of "over 199 mph" and estimated zero-to-60-mph time in the low three-second range aren't what's most impressive; it's the unmistakable timbre that erupts from the exhaust tips as the Portofino's tach needle charges towards the engine's 7500-rpm redline. The Portofino M we drove in the Florida Keys showcased the convertible's comfortable ride and remarkable body control that came courtesy of its well-tuned adaptive dampers. While its electrically assisted steering delivered satisfying feedback, the setup isn't as engaging as what Porsche provides. Every Portofino also features carbon-ceramic brakes that ensure this hefty GT can quickly be hauled to a stop.