Ferrari California Review
First introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 2008, the Ferrari California specs presented a number of firsts for the legendary Italian luxury sports car manufacturer. Perhaps the most surprising of these firsts is the fact that the Ferrari California was designed by in-house designers. Traditionally, the brand is known for outsourcing this task to third-party designers. This set the standard for Ferrari models produced after the original California design. Likewise, the Ferrari California is the first Ferrari model equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and a folding aluminum roof. While the topic of conversation revolves largely around these firsts with the Ferrari California, the automobile is a beautiful masterpiece with all of the power you have come to expect from a Ferrari.
Ferrari California Engine
Another first for the luxury brand, the Ferrari California is the first model to feature a V8 engine in the front of the car. The F136 4.3-liter engine, more recognizable by the name of a Ferrari-Maserati engine, is responsible for the immense power behind this supercar. Aside from the front placement of the engine, it is the company’s first engine with direct petrol injection. This unique configuration allows a production of 452 bhp at 7750 rpm and 358 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. With this staggering level of power, the Ferrari California’s top speed is 193 mph. Even more thrilling is the 0 to 60 Ferrari California’s specs, as the acceleration time is a mere 4.0 seconds for the 2008 model, with the time decreasing to 3.6 seconds by 2013.
Ferrari California Transmission
Breaking tradition with the inclusion of a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Ferrari California specs are a game-changer. This transmission allows for operation as fully automatic or through the use of shifting paddles mounted on the steering column. This transmission came standard during the first year of production; however, the option of a traditional 6-speed manual was offered in late 2009. Typically, most Ferrari California vehicles still retained the originally instituted 7-speed transmission throughout the sports cars production run, but it is possible to find them with the more conventional manual version.
Ferrari California Specs:
Horsepower: 452 hp
Torque: 358 lb-ft
0-60: 3.6 seconds
1/4 Mile: 11.9 @ 117 mph
Top Speed: 193 mph
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Ferrari California Brakes
The Ferrari California is equipped with Brembo brakes and Carbon-Ceramic Material (CCM) discs. These brakes are traditional for most Ferrari models; however, the designers aimed to make the braking system much more functional for everyday use. In former models, the brakes were more aggressive, as cars were frequently utilized for racing. With the Ferrari California specs, Ferrari’s designers fine-tuned the brake pedal along with the braking system as a whole. While the California has an impressive braking distance of 60 to 0 in 100 feet, you will notice a much smoother braking transition in this vehicle because of these alterations.
Ferrari California Design
With dimensions of 179.6″ L x 74.9″ W x 51.5″ H, the California Ferrari specs are those of an innovative model for the brand. One of the biggest considerations during the design process was aerodynamics. Ferrari reportedly spent over 1,000 hours in a wind tunnel to perfect the aerodynamic design of the California. This time was well spent, as the supercar has little drag and held the title of the most aerodynamic Ferrari in existence during its time. This focus on eliminating drag makes the overall appearance much smoother and curvaceous than that of previous models. Similarly, the designers opted to use aluminum to craft the chassis and body in lieu of a traditional steel frame.
Ferrari California Price
If you are considering purchasing a Ferrari California, great pre-owned examples can be found under $100,000. As with other previously owned vehicles, the price will largely be determined by the car’s year of production, along with how well it has been maintained. If the mileage is low and everything is in mint condition, expect to pay an amount on the higher end of the spectrum.In the same fashion, other factors, like the inclusion of upgrades or customized features, may also alter the asking price of a Ferrari California. It is also important to note that models equipped with manual transmissions instead of the more common 7-speed may cost significantly more simply because they are less common and in high demand.
Ferrari California on Lexani Wheels
Ferrari California Interior
One glance at the interior of the Ferrari California specs and you simply know that this is no ordinary automobile. Adorned in Italian leather and exquisitely sophisticated, the cabin features all the bells and whistles of a luxury car. From a full navigation system with a DVD output to an iPod connection and an in-depth instrument panel, and for this reason, the Ferrari California has it all. One of the most unique attributes of the interior, however, is the “2+” seating concept option. Not quite large enough to be classified as a “2+2” style, the vehicle can accommodate four people for quick trips, and the seats are able to fold down when not in use, for storage. An alternate configuration where the seats in the back are replaced with a rear bench for storage is also available.
Ferrari California T Specs
By the middle of the decade, Maranello realized their grand touring convertible needed an injection of power and style. Going back to Pininfarina, the lines were made crisp and the critics were silenced. What emerged was the 2015 Ferrari California T. Because “turbo” has been beaten to death by automakers, adding the suffix T allowed Ferrari to build a subset of cars that arrived with more power, fewer emissions, and greater fuel economy.
Nearly a clean-sheet design, the chassis, suspension, and electronics were also all-new. Without impacting the Ferrari California T MSRP, a competitive retail price included Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, and USB connectivity. Riding on the latest in magnetic suspension, the stability and traction systems were upgraded to F1 Trac. Improvements to the 7-speed dual-clutch included shift times and revised ratios to make use of more power. With those items sorted, we turn our attention to the most powerful engine ever offered in a Ferrari California.
Ferrari California T Engine
Making use of the latest in turbo technology, the 2015 Ferrari California T debuted with 553 horsepower and 557 lb-ft of torque. Instead of 4.3 liters, the bore was reduced to add strength. Despite a drop to 3.855 liters, it made use of forged internals, electronic wastegates, and innovative boost control. In order to keep wheel slip at bay, the computer adds boost by gear. This limits torque in a progressive manner until the higher gears are reached.
Ferrari California T Special Features
In order to give their grand tourer a fitting farewell, the 2017 Ferrari California T offered a Handling Speciale package. Responding to customers who wanted to push their car to the limits, the factory developed a new suspension system. Starting with stiffer springs and new mapping for the magnetic shocks, the sway bars were also new to give the car more stability and grip in the corners.
Ferrari California T Review
Lauded as the best years of the Ferrari California, there can be no equal to the performance of the Ferrari California T. A proper review starts with the top down. After awakening the beast, a bit of brake-boosting will erupt in a launch. Reaching 62 mph in 3.3 seconds, you are well on your way to a top speed of 196 mph. If you are looking for the best of both worlds, this hardtop convertible also offers consistent quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds. Going through the traps at nearly 130 mph is a blast no matter what the circumstance, especially with the top down.
Ferrari California Standout Features
The Ferrari California specs are full of stand-out and innovative features that make it a truly original vehicle. It was inspired by the 250 GT California from the 1950s–60s era. Many Ferrari enthusiasts are thrilled with the notion of the retractable aluminum roof. This roof can go from open to closed, and vice versa, in 10 seconds. The security of a roof with the freedom of a convertible, this feature is one of the most loved. Likewise, the California features the uncommon 7-speed transmission, a “2+” design concept, an F-1 traction control system and a HELE (High Emotion Low Emissions) system.
Other notable highlights include the ability to transform from coupe to convertible in fourteen seconds. For those who want something unique, Ferrari’s Tailor Made department built several examples of the Ferrari California with bespoke interior and exterior appointments. From 2-tone Daytona seats to exposed carbon fiber, these special options are often hidden from the window sticker. In order to celebrate the brand’s 70th Anniversary, Ferrari built 70 unique examples of the California T. Each one was built in a unique livery to replicate historic cars of the past, and they are among the most coveted examples of the Ferrari California for sale.
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