In September 2015 Ferrari are set to launch the 488 Spider at the Frankfurt International Motor Show but prior to this have revealed a few sneak glimpses of the completed model in the new Blu Corsa livery.
It’s striking design including the patented Retractable Hard Top makes the 488 Spider a must have for those seeking the luxury of an open air motor and the high performance level that one would expect of a Ferrari. Ferrari are the first manufacturer to introduce the RHT (Retractable Hard Top) on a car of this particular architecture which ensures lower weight (-25 kg) and better cockpit comfort compared to the classic fabric soft-top.
Not only is the 488 model aesthetically pleasing it is also the most aerodynamically efficient Ferrari spider ever built due to a series of complex aero solutions designed to guarantee optimal downforce whilst reducing drag. Both goals have been achieved by Maranello’s engineers by introducing several innovative devices, including a blown spoiler and an aerodynamic underbody incorporating vortex generators.
Designed using a simulator, similar to the one used by the Formula 1 Scuderia, it allowed the human factor to influence the car’s design from the earliest stages by giving the engineers instant feedback from the test-drivers long before the first 488 prototype was physically built resulting in a truly exhilarating drive.
Also in the design stages each section of the model was specifically designed to raise the bar of technological development including the new turbo-charged V8 and the aluminium spaceframe chassis and body shell creating the racy character.
The 488 Spider’s Character is unique to any other Ferrari, keeping with their tradition, and with a distinctive Ferrari roar created by exhaust headers with longer, equal-length piping and a flat-plane crankshaft it sends shivers down the spine. It’s enticing roar’s clarity does not flicker from speed variation and reacts instantly to the rise and fall of the accelerator creating a sensation of pure power and control.
Its performance levels are quite frankly extraordinary sending the 488 soaring from 0-100km/h in 3 seconds flat whilst removing the old ‘turbo lag’ with a throttle response time of just 0.8 seconds. Whilst being powerful it is also being impressively efficient with lower CO2 emissions than the previously naturally-aspirated V8.
With a 9% more rapid response than Ferrari’s previous Spider whilst not reducing comfort Ferrari have hit the nail on the head with the 488 model. Adapted to meet the demand of open-top driving paired with effortless handling Ferrari have created a model of structured beauty and heart pounding power set to impress all sports car owners at it’s September launch.
