The Ultimate Ferrari 458 Arrives in Japan | Ferrari

Ferrari 458 Speciale

The Ultimate Ferrari 458 Arrives in Japan

PreviousFrankfurt Motor Showunveiled at the458 Italiaand458 Spiderhave now been joined by the "458 Speciale," which has also launched in Japan. What kind of performance does this V8 mid-engine model, the most powerful in its lineage, offer? We bring you the first report from its launch event in Japan.

Text by SAKURAI Kenichi

The Most Powerful Naturally Aspirated Engine: 605ps

Unveiled in September at theFerrari 458 Specialehad its official Japanese debut. This high-performance version of the "458 Italia" is the third model in the lineup, following the "458 Italia" and "458 Spider." As its name suggests, it is the ultimate special machine, boasting the highest performance in the series.

The high level of interest was evident from the large number of media representatives who gathered for the Japanese launch event.FerrariJapan's President & CEO, Herbert Appleroth, stated at the beginning of the presentation, "It is a unique pleasure to introduce the '458 Speciale,' unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, to Japan in just a few weeks," emphasizing the importance of the Japanese market.

Also taking the stage was Giuseppe Cattaneo, Ferrari S.p.A.'s Regional Manager for the Far East, who introduced the "458 Speciale" as a "new model with the highest performance."

Furthermore, as a surprise guest, Scuderia Ferrari works driver Kamui Kobayashi, who races the 458 Italia and competes in WEC with AF Corse, appeared with the "458 Speciale," filling the venue with its distinctive engine sound. Kobayashi, along with the "458 Speciale," was the center of attention, bathed in flashes.

Exceptional Performance, Available as a Catalog Model

Since the 360 Modena series, launched in 1999, Ferrari has offered high-performance special models within its V8 mid-engine lineup. The "458 Speciale" follows the "Challenge Stradale" based on the 360 Modena, the430 ScuderiaandScuderia Spider 16MThe name "Speciale" is Italian for "special."

However, unlike many previous special models which were produced in limited numbers, the "458 Speciale" will be offered as a regular catalog model. This sales approach, similar to the "Challenge Stradale," is expected to be available for orders until the "458 Italia" undergoes a model change.

Like its predecessors, the "458 Speciale" is based on a standard model but features an upgraded engine, reinforced chassis, and reduced weight. Its exceptional performance allows for enjoyable driving on both public roads and circuits.

The "458 Speciale" weighs 1,290 kg, a reduction of 90 kg from the "458 Italia's" 1,380 kg. Engine output has been increased by 35 ps to 605 ps at 9,000 rpm. As announced at its debut, this power output translates to 135 ps per liter, making it the most powerful V8 Ferrari ever produced. It also boasts the highest power output among all naturally aspirated engines currently in mass production worldwide.

Ferrari 458 Speciale

The Ultimate Ferrari 458 Arrives in Japan (2)

Meticulous Details and Weight Reduction

The engine is a 90-degree V8 with a bore and stroke of 94.0 x 81.0 mm, and a total displacement of 4,497 cc, identical to the "458 Italia." This has been tuned to produce a maximum output of 605 ps at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 540 Nm (59.1 kgm) at 6,000 rpm. This results in a top speed exceeding 325 km/h, 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.1 seconds, 0-400m in 10.7 seconds, and 0-1,000m in 19.4 seconds – performance truly befitting a racing car.

The transmission's response has been improved by 20 percent compared to the "458 Italia," with a 44% reduction in gear synchronization time during downshifts. This allows for lightning-fast gear changes.

Thanks to these powertrain advancements, the lap time at Fiorano,Ferrari'stest track adjacent to its headquarters, where F1 cars also conduct tests, is 1 minute 23.5 seconds. This is only 0.5 seconds slower than the current flagship model, the "F12berlinetta," which was introduced as "the fastest road car in Ferrari history."F12berlinettaThis time is, of course, faster than that of the V12 special, the "Enzo Ferrari."

The exterior features a redesigned front section compared to the "458 Italia," enhancing aerodynamic performance. Notably, the lower central part of the front bumper incorporates an aerodynamic solution with speed-sensitive flaps that open and close. Similar active flaps are also present under the rear bumper, indicating a design focused on achieving optimal aerodynamic characteristics at various speeds.

Additionally, new air outlets resembling those on the F40 have been added next to the front headlights, and air scoops have been newly incorporated throughout the body to improve airflow and cooling. The body color features a distinctive specification inspired by the North American Racing Team (N.A.R.T.), with a red base color and blue and white center stripes. This clearly differentiates it visually from the standard lineup.

Furthermore, for weight reduction, the glass has been thinned, and Lexan resin is used for the rear. The newly designed 20-inch forged wheels contribute to a total weight saving of 12 kg and are available in three colors: gold, dark gray, and black.

Racing-Inspired Interior

The interior also boasts a racing-inspired finish. The extensive use of Alcantara and carbon fiber achieves both weight reduction and a sense of luxury. The glove compartment on the dashboard has been removed, with storage space now provided in the central tunnel and door panels. The carbon fiber paddle shifters feature a unique design, and knee pads are equipped to support the driver during cornering.

The seats are from Sabelt, featuring lightweight carbon fiber shells, a design that can be described as truly racing-grade. The seatbacks use breathable 3D fabric for excellent ventilation, making them suitable for demanding driving conditions such as circuit use.

While it lacks the luxurious amenities one might expect from a special model in other cars, its Spartan concept embodies a racing machine for the road. It conveys a quality only permitted to true tools of combat – a "weapon." It is a special interior that fulfills the joy of ownership.

Ferrari 458 Speciale

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An Evolved Chassis to Match the Power

Chassis evolution is another highlight of the "458 Speciale." The Side Slip Angle Control (SSC) system makes vehicle control easier at the limit and enhances driving pleasure. It continuously senses the vehicle's yaw rate, compares it to the calculated target yaw rate, and manages torque in integration with the F1-Traction Control. Torque distribution between the left and right wheels is optimized in conjunction with the E-Diff (electronic differential). This suppresses oversteer, enabling stable driving while maximizing dynamic performance.

The suspension is equipped with magnetorheological dampers, which Ferrari calls Frs SCM-E, featuring twin solenoids. These control the dampers in just 0.06 seconds, achieving precise body control.Ferraricalls twin-solenoid magnetorheological dampers, enabling precise body control with adjustments made in just 0.06 seconds.

The tires are also special. The Michelin "Pilot Sport Cup 2" tires have been specially tuned for the 458 Speciale. While offering performance to shorten circuit lap times, they also ensure wet performance for road use, providing maximum grip under all conditions.

The brakes are from the special modelLaFerrariand feature Brembo carbon-ceramic (CCM3) system. With extreme design calipers and small front pads made of highly heat-resistant HY material, they achieve an astonishing stopping distance of just 31 meters from 100-0 km/h.

The "458 Speciale," with its astonishing performance befitting its title as the most powerful V8 model ever, is available for anyone to order. If you have the means to afford the 32.9 million yen price tag in Japan, you too can become an owner. While it is a "special existence" with special performance and design, this is the only aspect that is not special.

The price difference from the "458 Italia" is 4.6 million yen. Considering its performance, this price can be considered a bargain. Vehicle deliveries in Japan are scheduled to begin in the spring of 2014.