The Ferrari California is the latest model announced by the Maranello house. It will be presented at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. This car recalls the classic California Spider models of the 1960s. Its main feature is that it will be a convertible with retractable hard roof.
The photos show the new California spider in the classic Ferrari red color combined with Habano upholstery interior, a classic formula of the brand. The exterior design is related to the 599 GTB Fiorano and Ferrari 612 Scaglietti models. Of course, the distances must be bridged, as the new Ferrari California is smaller than the models mentioned.
The aim of the Ferrari California is to provide the user with a vehicle to enjoy driving in any condition, both without a roof to feel the wind, and with a closed passenger compartment resembling a coupe.
The dimensions of the Ferrari California reach 4,560 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. The design of the body contemplates a great job in the aerodynamic aspect. This allows the car to have high aerodynamic load values (downforce) without the need for additional spoilers.
In addition, the Ferrari California design boasts a good load capacity in its trunk. When the retractable roof is unfolded, the trunk offers a volume of 360 liters. On the other hand, when the roof is folded and placed in the trunk, the available space is limited to 260 litres. The advantage of the trunk is that it is designed to be able to open from the inside, making it possible to store objects that exceed its size.
As far as performance is concerned, the Ferrari California surprises positively. It will be the first Ferrari car with engine in central front position, that is, behind the front axle.
The 4.300 cm3 V8 engine will deliver a power of 460 hp at 7,500 rpm. Power is transmitted through a sequential automatic seven-speed gearbox with double clutch, adding a torque control system to prevent slippage in sudden accelerations.
With this V8 impeller the Ferrari California will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds and develop a top speed above 300 kilometers per hour.
Another highlight by Ferrari is that in this engine they have managed to reduce pollutant emissions, with a value of 310 g of CO2 per kilometer. It is still a high value, but much better than the 420 g/km it emits the engine of the Ferrari F430.
Other technical data to note are the use of aluminum for chassis and body construction plus the use of Brembo carbonoceramic composite brakes. Finally, we highlight the adoption of the already known traction control system called F1-Trac.
According to the announcement, this model will have a price of around 160,000 Euros, so it would be the least expensive Ferrari in square.
© Adrián Blanco 2008 - Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author.