We’ve known for some months now that Ferrari was preparing a mild update for its entry-level California model and today, the Italian automaker made it official releasing the first photos and specs ahead of the hardtop roadster’s world premiere at next month’s Geneva Auto Show.
While there aren’t any noticeable styling changes other than the silver front grille, under the skin, it’s a different story.
For starters, the new model year California’s 4.3-liter V8 engine with direct-injection technology gains new exhaust manifolds and engine mapping, which boost output from 460-horses and 485Nm (358 lb-ft), to 490-horses 505Nm (373 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm.
Equally important, Ferrari’s engineers managed to shave 30 kilos (66 pounds) off the California’s chassis without affecting in any way on its structural rigidity and performance – always according to the Italian automaker.
These improvements allow the California to go from zero to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds, or 0.2 seconds faster than the outgoing 460HP model.
Ferrari has also developed a new optional “Handling Speciale package”, which is said to encompass modifications to the suspension set-up that minimize body roll and “make the car even more responsive to driver inputs”.
The package includes Magnetorheological dampers controlled by an even faster ECU (-50% response time), stiffer springs and a modified steering wheel system with a 10 per cent quicker steering ratio.
Ferrari has also introduced a more extensive palette of colors that include new two-tone finishes and modern re-interpretations of the company’s classic color schemes.
PHOTO GALLERY
