Replacing a universally loved supercar like the 458 Speciale Aperta was always going to be a tough one, but the 488 Pista Spider apparently fits the job description perfectly.
Autocar had the chance to spend some time with a very bright yellow example on some lovely Italian roads in order to find out if the topless version of the hardcore mid-engined Ferrari is indeed as good as it seems on paper.
The powertrain remains the same with the fixed-top Pista, meaning a twin-turbo 3.9-liter V8 producing 710hp (720PS) and 568lb-ft (770Nm) of torque paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Also Read: Ferrari 488 Pista Spider Makes Unexpected Premiere At Pebble Beach
Compared to its predecessor, the 488 Pista Spider offers 113hp more, but the Aperta was the last topless Ferrari V8 with a naturally aspirated engine. Maranello’s way of replacing such a landmark model in its lineup was by adding more speed. Way more speed.
Ferrari claims that the 488 Pista Spider lapped the Fiorano in 1 minute 21.5 seconds, making it the quickest spider to lap the company’s test track. 0-62mph (100km/h) comes in just 2.85 seconds while hitting 124mph (200km/h) from a standstill takes 8 seconds flat.
In addition, the 488 Pista Spider features all the latest technologies that help extract more speed and performance from both the car and the driver. Things like the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) lateral dynamics control system and the Side Slip Control System (SSC 6.0) do their magic, while the stickier Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires, recalibrated dampers, stiffer springs and insane aerodynamic agenda complete the picture of one very impressive supercar.