Ferrari to debut lighter, more powerful California at Geneva
New Ferrari California
By Bob Hume, 15th February 2012
Ferrari is introducing a new California next month. Production of which has already started on the lighter, more powerful convertible hard-top GT, which will have a weight reduction of 30 kg and an increased output of 30bhp.
The V8 engine in the new car now delivers 490bhp, thanks to new exhaust manifolds and engine mapping. The torque curve has also been modified and is higher across the rev range. Clever aluminium fabrication has been used to lighten the body and chassis. The result of these changes is a 0-62 time of 3.8 seconds.
New lighter, more powerful California
A new option is also being offered: the 'Handling Speciale' package has been developed with the aim of minimising body roll and making the car's handling more responsive. This includes Magnetorheological dampers controlled by the Electronic Control Unit, stiffer springs and a new steering box with a 10 per cent quicker steering ratio.
Ferrari explains: "All these new features combine to underscore the California’s sporty prowess without affecting its high-performance grand touring vocation – an achievement very much in line with Ferrari’s DNA".
