The Ultimate 458 Arrives: The Speciale | Ferrari

Ferrari 458 Speciale | The Ultimate 458

The Ultimate Embodiment of "Special"

Following the "Challenge Stradale" based on the 360 Modena, and the430 Scuderia"430 Scuderia", the high-performance version of the V8 mid-ship model, the "458 Speciale", hasFrankfurt Motor Showbeen unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. What is its remarkable performance?

Text by SAKURAI Kenichi

A Lap Time of 1:23.5 at Fiorano

Ferrari will present the world premiere of the "458 Speciale," a high-performance version of its V8 mid-ship model "458 Italia," at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Ferrari has consistently introduced high-performance versions of its V8 mid-ship models since the "360 Modena" series. The "458 Speciale" follows the "Challenge Stradale" based on the 360 Modena and the "430 Scuderia" based on the F430. Each of these models featured increased engine power, reinforced chassis, lowered ride height, and reduced body weight compared to their standard counterparts, offering racing-like performance that allows for enjoyable circuit driving.

Following this tuning formula, the "458 Speciale" weighs 90kg less than the "458 Italia" at 1,390kg, and its engine output has been increased by 35ps to 605ps/9,000rpm. This power output, at 135ps per liter, is undoubtedly the highest among all V8 Ferraris to date and the most powerful among current naturally aspirated production engines worldwide.

The maximum torque is stated as 540Nm (59.1kgm) at 6,000rpm, with astonishing figures of 0-100km/h in 3.0 seconds and 0-200km/h in 9.1 seconds having been released.

Ferrari 458 Speciale | Ferrari 458 Speciale

However, its capabilities extend beyond mere acceleration. The lap time at Ferrari's test track, "Fiorano," a benchmark for overall speed, is 1 minute 23.5 seconds. This is only 0.5 seconds slower than the flagship model "F12berlinetta", which was introduced as "the fastest road car in Ferrari history."458 Italia"458 Italia," which achieved a lap time of 1 minute 25 seconds, the same as the Enzo Ferrari, illustrates just how exceptionally fast this machine is.

The improved engine output and weight reduction are not the sole secrets behind achieving a 1:23.5 lap time at Fiorano. Optimized aerodynamics befitting a special model, electronic systems ensuring driving stability, and the adoption of dedicated tires also significantly contribute to the enhanced performance.

The Ferrari Styling Centre, responsible for the "458 Speciale's" body design, collaborated with Pininfarina to optimize downforce balance and simultaneously incorporate "Advanced Active Aerodynamics" mechanisms at the front and rear to reduce drag. While specific figures have not been disclosed, it is stated to be "the most aerodynamically efficient current production vehicle in Ferrari's history (according to official Ferrari announcement)."

Furthermore, it is equipped with a system called Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), which enhances vehicle control at the limit and significantly increases driving pleasure. SSC continuously senses the vehicle's slip angle, compares it with the calculated target slip angle, and optimizes torque management by integrating with F1-Traction Control, while also optimizing torque distribution between the left and right wheels in conjunction with the E-Diff (electronic differential).

And the tires are also special. The "Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2" are specially tuned for the "458 Speciale." They not only deliver exceptional performance for single hot laps on the circuit but also improve lap times during continuous driving. They also provide maximum grip even in wet conditions.

The "458 Speciale" demonstrates astonishing performance, rivaling dedicated racing machines. This V8 model, boasting the strongest performance in Ferrari's history, truly lives up to its name, meaning "special" in Italian, as the ultimate existence.