Ferrari reveals its 458 Speciale
Ferrari has revealed a special edition to the 458 Italia, aptly named the 458 Speciale. Ferrari's technological innovation and research has led to new advances in powertrain, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics of the Speciale. This new 458 is a completely new sports car concept.
Many technological advancements being used in the Speciale will trickle down to other Ferrari models. The Speciale sits in between the 458 Italia and 458 Spider. It was conceptualized and designed to boost both performance and driving emotion.
The 458 Speciale gets a powerful, naturally-aspirated V8 which churns out 597PS. Thanks to an exceptional weight/power ratio, the 458 Speciale can sprint from 0 to 100 in a mere 3 seconds. It clocked a lap time of just 1'23"5 at the Fiorano Circuit.
The car's form and aerodynamic elements, like the front and rear movable aerodynamics which balance downforce and cut drag, have been worked on by the Ferrari Styling Centre with Pininfarina. Other technologies used in the vehicle dynamics subsystems assist the driver. Natural power oversteer management and precise response to commands are further advancements.
One of the most innovative elements of the Speciale is the Side Slip angle Control system (SSC), which makes it easier to achieve car control at the limit. Thanks to the development of an accurate new algorithm, SSC performs instant-to-instant analysis of the car's side slip, comparing it with the target value and then optimising both torque management (via integration with F1-Trac traction control) and torque distribution between the two wheels (via integration with the E-Diff electronic differential). The Speciale also gets Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which were specifically honed at track tests and simulator sessions.
The 458 Speciale will receive its public world debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.