Ferrari-Age: The 458 Italia (replacement for the F430)

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The more I look at it, the more I really, really like it. Ferrari's designs have been lacking since the 355, and while this is still no match, it's a step in the right direction. Love it.

That, and the specs are top-notch as well: 562 hp from 4.5 liters means 125 hp/l-- that ought to be a new record for a naturally-aspirated engine. Plus a 7-speed, dual-clutch gearbox, an aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber structure, and a top speed over 200 mph? Oh fucking yes. Plus, a curb weight 150 lbs less than what they claimed for the F430 doesn't hurt, either.
 
Agent Ghost said:
Looks too much like a corvette.
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I don't think it does, but that's way less of an insult these days than it used to be.

For the record this car is objectively beautiful and takes styling cues from the Alfa 8C.

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Again.


FACT: This car is lovely.
FICTION: Opinions to the contrary.
 
Actual shots of the car.

You've probably already seen the pictures of the Ferrari F430 replacement by now, but we can officially confirm that the 458 Italia is indeed as stunning in the flesh as we'd hoped it would be.

What's all the fuss about?

Any new Ferrari is going to cause a stir, but the replacement for its 'bread and butter' model is about as exciting as it gets. The 458 Italia might be the most junior Ferrari lots of money can buy, but it's by no means a watered down supercar. Its top speed is 202mph and it will get to 100km/h (that's 62mph in old money) in just 3.4 seconds thanks to a 4.5-litre, 562bhp V8 engine and a shape more slippery than Ronnie Biggs. In fact, Michael Schumacher claimed during its unveil that it's quicker than an Enzo around Ferrari's Fiorano test track. Yikes.

Any new technology?

Ferrari is keen to stress that the CO2 emissions the 458 doles out are the cleanest in the segment. Granted, that's arguably the same as claiming you're the most intelligent Big Brother housemate, but 320g/km of CO2 and 20.6mpg are actually impressive considering the 9,000rpm V8 performance on offer.

Inside, traditional indicator stalks are eradicated too in favour of innovative wheel mounted units. And as for the rest of the cabin, we can confirm it's as wonderfully tactile as we'd hoped for - though it's asymmetrical air vents take some getting used to. We'd like the opportunity...

When can I buy one?

Sometime during Spring 2010 is the suggested release date for the 458 Italia, although Ferrari has put so much time and cost into developing the car that it will justifiably charge more for it than the F430 it replaces - expect around £150,000.
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I love it. Best looking Ferrari since the 288GTO. Possibly the best looking production car available at some point in the near future :p
 
The most annoying thing is that gap between the hood and headlights, and I prefer the simpler 5-spoke wheels on the yellow car (the ones from the Scuderia Spider). The interior is way overdone as well, but at least build quality looks top-notch.

I still love it though. It looks even better in real-world photos than it did in the CG renders they initially released. The profile is fantastic.
 
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