A Model Incorporating Cutting-Edge Technical Solutions

Among the Fiat Group's stands, Ferrari undoubtedly drew the most intense attention.


At this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, Ferrari presented the458 Italia, a high-performance variant based on the "458 Italia." The 458 Italia itself was unveiled at this very show four years ago in 2009. That Ferrari considers the 458 Speciale to be both a high-performance version and the final evolution of the 458 series is evidenced by precedents such as the "360 Modena" followed by the "Challenge Stradale," and theF430" in relation to the430 Scuderia". Indeed, Ferrari plans to introduce a new model that will succeed the 458 series in the near future.

Ferrari itself describes the 458 Speciale as "a model that incorporates cutting-edge technical solutions in the fields of powertrain, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics." Indeed, examining the engineering of the 458 Speciale makes it easy to understand that these words are not an exaggeration.


The first notable aspect of the 458 Speciale is its new aerodynamic solutions. The patented Mobile Aerodynamics Solution actively controls aerodynamics through variable spoilers at the front and rear.


The front bumper spoiler features a much larger air intake than that of the 458 Italia. It is equipped with a pair of vertical flaps and a horizontal flap at the bottom, which are controlled to vary the airflow to the radiator and the downforce.


The bonnet also has a unique design with its own air outlet. Additionally, the air outlets next to the headlights feature three louvers, reminiscent of models like the "250 GTO," "288 GTO," and "F40."

The Fastest Ferrari 8-Cylinder Model

The mid-mounted engine is a 4,497cc V8 DOHC naturally aspirated unit, exclusive to the 458 Speciale, producing a maximum output of 605 ps. The internal components and intake/exhaust systems have been thoroughly renewed, and the accompanying dual-clutch F1 gearbox has also seen improvements in its control logic, marking a definite evolution.


The overall weight of the power unit is about 8 kg lighter compared to the 458 Italia. Weight-saving measures have been extensively applied to the exterior and interior as well, resulting in a dry weight of 1,290 kg for the 458 Speciale.

The biggest news regarding vehicle dynamics is the newly adopted SSC, or Side Slip Angle Control. This system instantly analyzes the side slip angle during driving and further optimizes the control of the traction control (F1-Trac) and electronic differential (E-Diff3), thereby enhancing stability during cornering and controllability at the limit.


In addition, the SCM-E dampers, which vary damping force using magnetic changes, Brembo brakes with all parts renewed, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires developed exclusively for this model, all contribute to significant advancements in the 458 Speciale's handling.


According to Ferrari, the 458 Speciale recorded a lap time of 1 minute 23.5 seconds at the Fiorano test track. It achieves 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.1 seconds, and a top speed exceeding 325 km/h. This is truly the fastest model in the history of Ferrari's 8-cylinder road cars.

Ferrari 458 Speciale
Body Dimensions | Length 4,571 x Width 1,951 x Height 1,203 mm
Wheelbase | 2,650 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,679 / 1,632 mm
Weight | 1,290 kg
Engine | 4,497cc 90-degree V8 DOHC Direct Injection
Compression Ratio | 14 : 1
Bore x Stroke | 94 x 81 mm
Max Output | 605 ps / 9,000 rpm
Max Torque | 540 Nm / 6,000 rpm
Specific Output | 135 ps / liter
Transmission | 7-speed Automatic (F1 Dual-Clutch Transmission)
Drivetrain | MR
Tires Front | 245/35ZR20 (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2)
Tires Rear | 305/30ZR20 (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2)
Brakes Front | Carbon Ceramic (CCM3) 398x223x36 mm
Brakes Rear | Carbon Ceramic (CCM3) 360x233x32 mm
Top Speed | Over 325 km/h
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 3.0 seconds
0-200 km/h Acceleration | 9.1 seconds
0-400 km/h Acceleration | 10.7 seconds
0-1,000 km/h Acceleration | 19.4 seconds
100-0 km/h Deceleration | 31.0 m
Power-to-Weight Ratio | 2.13 kg/ps
Front/Rear Weight Distribution | Front 42% : Rear 58%
Fuel Economy (NEDC Value) | 11.8 L/100km (approx. 8.47 km/L)
CO2 Emissions | 275 g/km
Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L