No one saw it coming. Ferrari has made the day of car buffs around the world, revealing the first images and specs of the 2012 458 Spider, the first rear mid-engine berlinetta with a retractable roof.
The younger sibling of the superb 458 Italia calls on a 4.5 litre V8 deploying 569 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. All that grunt is sent to the pavement via a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission inspired by F1 cars and a highly sophisticated electronic differential.
The throttle and multilink suspension have both been tweaked to create an übersporty character worthy of the Maranello-based automaker’s Spider products.
The retractable aluminum roof can be raised in 14 seconds. It retracts into a space directly in front of the engine compartment without affecting aerodynamics or performance.
An electronic wind deflector reduces vibration in the cabin and allows the driver to push the 200-km/h mark, ensuring optimal comfort and thrills while soaking up the sun.
Whether engineering, design or performance, nothing was left to chance in designing the 458 Spider, destined to become another Ferrari powerhouse.
 |
| Photo: Ferrari |
The younger sibling of the superb 458 Italia calls on a 4.5 litre V8 deploying 569 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. All that grunt is sent to the pavement via a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission inspired by F1 cars and a highly sophisticated electronic differential.
The throttle and multilink suspension have both been tweaked to create an übersporty character worthy of the Maranello-based automaker’s Spider products.
The retractable aluminum roof can be raised in 14 seconds. It retracts into a space directly in front of the engine compartment without affecting aerodynamics or performance.
An electronic wind deflector reduces vibration in the cabin and allows the driver to push the 200-km/h mark, ensuring optimal comfort and thrills while soaking up the sun.
Whether engineering, design or performance, nothing was left to chance in designing the 458 Spider, destined to become another Ferrari powerhouse.
Article Gallery