Ferrari’s new drop-top includes a number of important technical features which give hints of the car’s F1 pedigree, starting with the innovative electronic differential (E-diff) - first developed by the racing division for the Scuderia’s all-conquering F1 cars – which improves traction and roadholding under all conditions.

Formula 1 is again the inspiration for the development of the company’s road cars. Designed by Pininfarina, the F430 Spider’s sinuous lines, in fact, were fine-tuned using state-of-the-art computer aerodynamics simulation programmes usually employed exclusively by the F1 team.

 

The F430 Spider’s shape is the result of lengthy testing and features a pronounced rear lip spoiler which is integrated into the end of the engine cover, new bigger rear air intakes that emphasize the car’s muscular stance, and a new rear valance that incorporates a diffuser of competition derivation. The engine itself is attractively set below a glass cover.

The F430 Spider boasts a compact, fully automatic electric hood that allows the engine to be seen in all its glory at all times and which, once lowered, takes up relatively little space, despite the uncompromising central-rear engine layout.

The F430 Spider is powered by Ferrari’s new 490 bhp, 4,308 cc 90° V8 which is capable of pushing the car to a top speed of over 193 mph and covering the 0-62 mph sprint in just 4.1 seconds. This lightweight and highly compact power unit produces a specific output of 114 bhp per litre with a weight-to-power ratio of 6.4 lbs (2.9 kg) per horsepower.