Ferrari
From Ferrari Press Release
New Ferrari California revealed: a hugely versatile, innovation-packed GT
Maranello, May 13th 2008 - The first official
photographs have been published of the Ferrari
California, the latest addition to the new
generation of Ferraris launched in 2004 with the 612
Scaglietti and added to more recently with the 430
Scuderia.
The Ferrari California joins the Prancing Horse's
8-cylinder family which has always been defined by
power and performance. It also flanks the flagship
612 Scaglietti in the prestige sporty Grand Tourer
segment.
The new Ferrari California will satisfy even the
most demanding of owners in term of its superb
vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure. The new model
will be available exclusively as a convertible with
a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are
aluminium, in line with the rest of the current
range. The California will be powered by a new V8
engine mounted for the first time in the marque's
history in the mid-front position.
In line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also
features several innovations. Apart from its folding
hard top, these include the original 2+ concept
which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in
the rear of the car. The California's 4,300 cc V8
engine features direct fuel injection and a "flat"
crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a
torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and
provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical
for Ferrari.
As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the
engine, which allows the Ferrari California to
sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds,
will be coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch
transmission that boosts the car's performance while
enhancing the driving pleasure, improves ride
comfort and reduces fuel consumption and emissions
(c.310 g/km CO2). The comfort is further enhanced by
a new multilink rear suspension system. The Ferrari
California is also equipped with the exclusive
F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut
on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to
suit the typical driving conditions expected for
this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic
material disks as standard guarantee superbly
efficient braking.
In addition to sporting the marque's classic styling
cues, the cabin has also been beautifully trimmed
using quality materials by Ferrari's own skilled
artisans. New accessories and equipment, such as the
seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and
infotainment system, together with optimised
aerodynamics ensure that this is a highly ergonomic
and enjoyable car to drive regardless of whether the
top is up or down.
The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire
a car which embodies everything the Prancing Horse
represents in terms of sporty design and innovation,
but also seek a car with greater versatility than
ever. The car will be officially unveiled to the
public at the Paris International Car Show. However,
over the coming weeks, new photographs and further
details about it will also be published.
Ferrari News Release