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.
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