When the Ferrari California was introduced in 2008, it successfully achieved the goals of increasing Ferrari’s overall sales volume and bringing new customers in. In fact, of the 8,000 units of the entry-level GT that were sold, more than 70 percent of them were being driven by first-time Ferrari owners.
Yet, the California hasn’t been accepted by true Ferrari enthusiasts because of its soft handling, excessive curb weight and well-mannered delivery of its output.
So, the California has recently undergone a mid-cycle update, increasing power and torque. It also features increased incline of its torque curve and a significant amount of weight was cut through the more extensive use of aluminum throughout the body and chassis. Finally, a new Handling Speciale package was added, which reduces body roll and transient response.
The all-new California (if the name sticks) may come out sooner than expected. Test mules have been spotted circulating the Fiorano test track.
Ferrari Centro Stile in Maranello, led by Flavio Manzoni (who is also working on the successor to the Enzo), is at the helm of this new design. Manzoni has reportedly drawn inspiration from the iconic 1960s Ferrari 250GTO for the new California.
Source: Car and Driver
Like Haute Auto? Join our Facebook Page
