The Ferrari F170 is a 4,499 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine developed for the 2010–2015 Ferrari California T. It produces 405 kW (550 PS) at 7,500 rpm and 557 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm, combining compact packaging with high — rpm responsiveness. This engine features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and twin — scroll turbocharging — marking Ferrari’s first turbocharged V8 in a production grand tourer.
Mounted longitudinally in the front —…
Production years 2014–2015 meet Euro 5b emissions standards with enhanced evaporative controls .
The Ferrari F170 is a 4,499 cc 90° twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for grand touring applications (2014–2015). It combines direct injection with twin-scroll turbochargers in a "hot-V" configuration to deliver strong low-end torque and high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 5b standards, it balances performance, drivability, and emissions compliance in a front-engine layout.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,499 cc | |
Fuel type | Unleaded premium petrol (RON 98) | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (twin-scroll, BorgWarner) | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 405 kW (550 PS) @ 7,500 rpm | |
Torque | 557 Nm @ 5,000 rpm (max 755 Nm overboost) | |
Fuel system | Bosch MED17.1 direct fuel injection (GDI) with port fuel injection for charge cooling | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5b | |
Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
Cooling system | Liquid-cooled, dual-circuit with dedicated intercooler loop | |
Turbocharger | 2× BorgWarner twin-scroll turbochargers (integrated into cylinder heads) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Shell Helix Ultra 0W-40 (Ferrari MDS-D01) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Ferrari F170 was used exclusively in the Ferrari California T platform with longitudinal front mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-twin-scroll turbochargers in a "hot-V" layout and overboost torque function-and from 2014 marked Ferrari’s return to turbocharging after a 25-year hiatus. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The F170's primary reliability risk is intercooler piping detachment under high boost, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for track events. Ferrari technical reports from 2015 noted a measurable incidence of hose clamp failure in early California T models, while VCA field data links a portion of emissions-related failures to EGR system clogging in urban-driven examples. Extended storage and infrequent high-RPM operation increase risk of carbon buildup and turbo bearing wear, making regular driving and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (2014-2015) and VCA failure statistics (2015-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, when properly maintained. The F170 is robust and capable of 80,000+ miles with regular servicing. Early 2014 models had minor issues with intercooler piping and turbo oiling, but Ferrari issued updates via technical bulletins. With correct oil changes, cool-down periods after hard use, and attention to intake carbon cleaning, reliability is high. Avoiding short trips and allowing the engine to reach operating temperature regularly helps prevent oil and carbon-related issues.
The most common issues are intercooler pipe detachment (especially on early 2014 models), turbocharger bearing wear, intake port carbon buildup (due to GDI), and timing chain tensioner wear. These are documented in Ferrari service bulletins and owner reports. Preventive maintenance, including regular oil changes, carbon cleaning, and inspection of boost plumbing, significantly reduces risk.
The F170 engine was used exclusively in the Ferrari California T (2014–2015). It was not installed in any other Ferrari model. This engine was designed specifically for the California T platform and is not compatible with mid-engine V8 layouts like the F136 or F154 series.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the F170 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Fuel consumption ranges from 14–18 L/100km (16–20 mpg UK) depending on driving style. The California T achieves ~14 L/100km on the highway due to strong low-end torque and efficient turbocharging. Real-world consumption is highly dependent on throttle use. These engines are designed for performance, not economy, but turbocharging improves efficiency compared to larger naturally aspirated units.
Yes. The F170 is an interference design, meaning if the timing chain fails or skips, pistons will contact open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. This is why chain inspection and maintenance are critical, especially on high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. The chain-driven system requires proper lubrication and adherence to service intervals.
Ferrari specifies Shell Helix Ultra 0W-40 (Ferrari MDS-D01) for all F170 engines. This oil meets the stringent requirements for high-RPM operation and chain-driven valvetrain protection. Oil must be changed every 12,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. Using non-approved oils may void warranty and increase wear risk, especially under turbocharged conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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