Adopts an Aluminum Retractable Hardtop

The 458 Italia, a V8 mid-engine model that debuted in 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show as the successor to the F430, now has an open-top variant. This supercar, named after its 4.5-liter V8 engine, is being launched in Japan ahead of Italy and Germany. Its Japan premiere was held in front of the main hall of Zojoji Temple in Shiba.

The adoption of a retractable hardtop, also seen on the four-seat California convertible, for the pure sports car 458 Italia is significant news. Previously, most supercars offered in open-top versions featured soft tops, largely to avoid the added weight and resulting higher center of gravity. However, Ferrari opted for a hardtop. This was achieved by reducing the number of parts by dividing the top into two sections and using lightweight aluminum. Remarkably, compared to the previous soft-top model, the 360 Spider, the weight has not only not increased but has been reduced by approximately 25kg, with the top opening and closing in just 14 seconds.

Design Began Before the 458 Italia

Of course, the weight reduction isn't solely due to the roof material. When asked, Michele Comelli, Ferrari S.p.A. Product Marketing Manager, who was visiting Japan, explained, "It's due to the optimization of the entire body structure."

Have you ever felt that the section from the rear of the doors to the rear fenders on the 458 Italia is slightly long? According to Comelli, the design for the Spider actually began before the coupe. In other words, when developing the next-generation V8 Ferrari, the design was conceived to be lightweight and highly rigid even in a Spider body. Even with a two-part top, reduced parts count, and weight savings, there would be design and aerodynamic issues if the roof storage wasn't executed properly.

However, this 458 Spider wasn't created by simply converting an existing body to an open-top; it was designed with the Spider model in mind from the outset, thus avoiding compromises in both design and aerodynamics. The roof shape was inspired by the Ferrari Superamerica unveiled in 2005. Development for the 458 Spider, in fact, began a year earlier, in 2004.

Performance on Par with the 458 Italia

The body dimensions are 4,527mm long, 1,937mm wide, and 1,211mm high, only 2mm lower than the 458 Italia.

The engine is also the same: a direct-injection 4.5-liter V8, producing a maximum output of 419 kW (570 hp) at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 540 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The 0-100 km/h acceleration is under 3.4 seconds, the same as the 458 Italia. The top speed is 320 km/h, nearly identical to the 458 Italia's 325 km/h.

While the dry weight of the standard 458 Italia is 1,380 kg (curb weight 1,580 kg), the 458 Spider, even with forged wheels and racing seats, is only 1,430 kg, a negligible difference that likely allows for these performance figures.

Furthermore, the evolved version of the F1-DCT (7-speed dual-clutch transmission) and the integrated control of the E-Diff electronic differential and F1-Trac traction control are identical. However, the chassis rigidity and the damping force of the multi-link suspension have been enhanced for the open-top configuration.

Additionally, the position of the air intakes differs, necessitating a change in the silencer shape, but the captivating Ferrari sound has been successfully maintained. Other notable features include the variable electric wind blocker, which moderates airflow in the cockpit, allowing for normal conversation even at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. The performance of open-top sports cars has truly reached new heights. This is undoubtedly an epoch-making vehicle.

The price is 30.6 million yen. Due to the recent weak Euro, a lower price might have been possible, but Ferrari's policy of not allowing easy discounting has led to this price point. However, with a 7-year maintenance plan and HELE (High Emotion/Low Emission) as standard, considering all aspects, it may be considered a good value.

Ferrari 458 SPIDER
Body Dimensions | Length 4,527 x Width 1,937 x Height 1,211mm
Wheelbase | 2,650mm
Curb Weight | 1,430kg
Engine | 4.5-liter V8
Max Output | 570ps / 9,000rpm
Max Torque | 540Nm / 6,000rpm
Fuel Economy | 8.5km/ℓ (11.8ℓ/100km)
CO2 Emissions | 275g/km
Price | 30.6 million yen