Ferrari and McLaren take their rivalry off the track and onto the stage in March when the two automakers reveal new exotics at the 2015 Geneva Auto Show. It's common for storied automakers to seek inspiration from past vehicles for upcoming models, and both manufacturers pay tribute to past successes through future innovation.

Ferrari will debut the 488 GTB, the next-generation supercar that will replace the aging 458 Italia in its lineup. The 488 GTB sports an obvious resemblance to the 308 GTB produced from 1975-1985. The 308 was Ferrari's first mid-rear-mounted V8 engine, and air intake was supplied by a pair of split, rear-fender air scallops. Both features have been recaptured in the new 488. The 308 is also considered the basis for Ferrari's first supercar, the 288 GTO.

Gentleman Drivers

The Longtail version of the F1 GTR in 1997. Source: Wikipedia

Beyond aesthetics, comparisons are slim. The 488 GTB will be powered by a 3.9-liter turbo V8 that supplies 661 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. torque. It results in a 0-60 mph time of 3.0 seconds, 0-124 mph in 8.3 seconds, and a top speed of 205 mph. (By comparison, the 308 had 0-124 mph time of 17.8 seconds and top speed of 158 mph.)

Also new in the 488: engineers integrated data from the automaker's 10-year-old "XX" program that studied how average drivers handle supercars, and then developed electronic and vehicle control systems optimized for "gentleman drivers."

The car also may be the most aerodynamic Ferrari yet, earning a 1.67 efficiency rating thanks to enhanced downforce, a double-front spoiler, base bleed side intakes, a blown spoiler and underbody vortex generators. The 488 GTB leverages Ferrari's recent success in Formula 1, World Endurance Championship and Le Mans racing.

Carbon Fiber Body

Not to be outdone, automaker McLaren promises to release the 675LT at Geneva, as well as the P1 GTR, both of which draw influence from the McLaren F1 GTR.

The 1997 F1 GTR earned the nickname "Longtail" from redesigned bodywork that maximized downforce. The 675LT will feature a “longtail” of its own, as well as an active airbrake that creates 40% more downforce than the McLaren 650S. It will also include a redesigned 3.8-liter, twin-turbo V8 that delivers 666 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. torque to the powertrain.

McLaren is well known for its use of carbon fiber body panels, and a titanium cross-over exhaust provides extra weight-savings for the 675LT. The company promises an "electrifying, engaging and visceral driving experience." McLaren, however, stopped short of providing pictures and additional specs for the 675LT.

Meanwhile, the P1 GTR is being introduced to celebrate McLaren's first win at the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1995. That model year's F1 was the first McLaren vehicle to receive the GTR badging, now resurrected in the P1. A power plant similar to that driving the 675 LT will be utilized, but an electric motor will supplement engine output. The P1 GTR has a 0-124 mph time of 6.8 seconds and an electrically restricted speed of 217 mph. However, the P1 GTR will only be available to current P1 owners.

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