California dreaming

NEXT month’s Geneva Motor Show will see the official debut of the new version of the lighter and more powerful Ferrari California.

Production has already commenced, with a weight reduction of 30kg and an increase in power output of 30bhp.

The Ferrari California’s GDI V8 now delivers 490bhp with maximum torque of 505Nm at 5,000 rpm, thanks to new exhaust manifolds and engine mapping. The torque curve has also been modified and is higher across the engine’s rev range.
 
Cutting-edge aluminium fabrication techniques and construction technologies used by the Scaglietti Centre of Excellence in the manufacture of the Ferrari California’s chassis, have led to an overall reduction of 30kg in the car’s weight without impinging its structural rigidity and performance.

These enhancements have improved the Ferrari California’s performance, reducing its 0-100km acceleration time to 3.8 seconds.

This heightens its sporty feel, Ferrari says, without detracting from the mission and character of a car that has won universal acclaim for its performance and exceptional versatility resulting from its retractable hard top and 2+ seating.

Ferrari fans will be able to see the car first hand at the Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 8-18.
To meet the needs of drivers who crave a more dynamic, yet not overly extreme experience, an optional ‘Handling Speciale’ package has been developed by the Italian motoring giant which encompasses modifications to the suspension set-up that minimise body roll and make the car ‘even more responsive’ to driver inputs.
 
The package includes magnetorheological dampers controlled by an even faster ECU (-50 per cent response time) running patented Ferrari software. It also features stiffer springs for more precise body control combined with a comfortable ride. Lastly, the California benefits from faster turn-in with smaller steering wheel angles thanks to a new steering box with a 10 per cent quicker steering ratio.

All these new features combine to underscore the California’s sporty prowess without affecting its performance, the company says.

The technical features are matched by a new, even more extensive choice of colours developed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, including two-tone finishes, three-layer paint technology and modern re-interpretations of classic colour schemes which increase the personalisation options even further.

In addition, the Ferrari California benefits from a free seven-year standard maintenance programme.
 
Its availability, along with the optional Handling Speciale package, varies according to each market with first deliveries scheduled for Europe.

For any further details, contact Euro Motors on 17750750.