A Smaller Prancing Horse from Maranello: The Ferrari California
By Stuart Schwartzapfel

Ferrari is readying a new front engine Grand Touring [GT] car dubbed California. The V8 powered 2-seater puts to bed myriad chat room gossip that such a car would use the Dino moniker [line of cars named after the son of Enzo Ferrari]. Thanks to ever-rising gas prices and environmental concerns, the new California will likely boast an impressive power to weight ratio, lessening the need for massive amounts of power.

The California represents a laundry list of Ferrari firsts and new technology. Among them, the first front engine V8 retractable hardtop convertible for the
brand and the debut of Ferrari’s new 7-speed dual clutch gearbox[hydraulically actuated units are used now]. The slick new gearbox, when coupled with the California’s 460HP 4.3L V8, makes for quicker shift times and a near 4-second sprint to 60MPH. As with other current Ferrari’s, both chassis and bodywork are constructed from aluminum.

From the hood scoop, familiar grille, covered headlights, sweep of the rear fenders and vents aft of the front wheels, it is clear that inspiration was
influenced heavily by the original 1960s 250 GT California [think Ferris Bueller’s Day Off]. The new California also incorporates design cues seen in current offerings like the F430 and 599 GTB Fiorano.

The new sports car will be officially unveiled to the public at the Paris International Car Show [Oct. 4-19, 2008]. Cost is unknown at this point, but industry pundits predict positioning slightly below that of F430. Ferrari says that new photographs and further details will also be published over the coming weeks.

The Verdict: There is always room for another Ferrari.

 

Great write-up as always buddy.

 

Great little write-up. Hopefully they don't go lexus on the exhaust tips

 

REALLY DOESNT do anything for me , I like the retractable hardtop. But hey the Gallardo did nothing for me when it first came out and i love it now , i want to see one in person to fully give my opinion on the car.

 

I think retractable hardtop is one of the ugliest things ever to be invented for a car. Too bad Ferrari adopted it. Good writeup though.

 

I love this car. My dealer says they can take my deposit as early as next month for a build.

I expect minor but some changes to the car. There are always a few tweaks here and there prior to full asembly line build.

IMO, Ceramics, Challenge Wheels in BLACK, Black interior, Color Im hung up on right now, thinking classic 1950's.

SM

 

I HATE STACKED EXHAUST TIPS! One thing for Lexus to look like fools, but for ferrari... NO.

Kinda looks like a TVR from the rear no?

 

No dont do it Ferrari! I feel Ferrari just doesnt need to go that way