streak
12-19-2008, 10:35 AM
Ferrari unveiled its latest model, the California, at the Paris motor show - this again looks far better in the flesh than it did in images. And while it does appear very special indeed, it's still not beautiful in the conventional way of a Ferrari.
The name California is an iconic one for Ferrari - it was the moniker used for the spyder/cabriolet versions of the of their legendary 2soGT range of cars in the 1960s. It's certainly one of the most desirable cars of all time.
The California is Ferrari's first folding hard top. The styling inspiration from the California Spyder of the 60S can be seen in some elements of the new car such as the flared-in headlights, hood scoop on the bonnet, and swooping rear fenders. In addition to its folding hard top, this car features a number of firsts for Ferrari.
57
The 4.3 liter V8, mounted in the mid-front position, produces 460bhp at 7soorpm. It's also Ferrari's first direct injection engine. Another first is the 7-speed dual clutch transmission, mounted in the rear trans axle. The fact that the California will only be offered in this configuration could be a clue to the future of Ferrari transmissions.
In keeping with the current range of Ferrari's, the body and chassis is all-aluminum - keeping weight to a bare minimum. The California is expected to accelerate to 100km/h in under 4 seconds. Bringing the car back to a stop are a set of Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes.
The California is certainly a very exciting new model, but with very big shoes to fill.
The name California is an iconic one for Ferrari - it was the moniker used for the spyder/cabriolet versions of the of their legendary 2soGT range of cars in the 1960s. It's certainly one of the most desirable cars of all time.
The California is Ferrari's first folding hard top. The styling inspiration from the California Spyder of the 60S can be seen in some elements of the new car such as the flared-in headlights, hood scoop on the bonnet, and swooping rear fenders. In addition to its folding hard top, this car features a number of firsts for Ferrari.
57
The 4.3 liter V8, mounted in the mid-front position, produces 460bhp at 7soorpm. It's also Ferrari's first direct injection engine. Another first is the 7-speed dual clutch transmission, mounted in the rear trans axle. The fact that the California will only be offered in this configuration could be a clue to the future of Ferrari transmissions.
In keeping with the current range of Ferrari's, the body and chassis is all-aluminum - keeping weight to a bare minimum. The California is expected to accelerate to 100km/h in under 4 seconds. Bringing the car back to a stop are a set of Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes.
The California is certainly a very exciting new model, but with very big shoes to fill.