Here is Ferrari’s latest concoction of stupor-inducing supercar. Introducing the 458 Italia.
Ferrari’s design language is taking a bold step into modern beauty, and have done a damn good job. Folds and creases are quite vivid and strong, giving much more muscular haunches around the rear wheel. Perhaps the most interesting view is from the rear end, opinions may be divided about the oddly placed rear lights and triple exhaust pipes taking centre stage.
The front lights stretch up towards the A pillar, and are surrounded by more interesting folding bodywork. This is a very complex, intense looking car. The more you look, the more interesting little tidbits you find. However, the Ferrari still looks quite glorious and attractive, despite all of the detail yearning for your eye’s attention.
As the name suggests, engine capacity has once again expanded. Power has increased quite significantly compared to the outgoing 430 (even the Scuderia), as the 4.5 litre V8 now boasts 425kW at an in-house record of 9,000rpm. The 458 will still only weighs (dry) 1380 kgs, so performance will once again push the limit at 127(!!!) bhp per litre.
The torque readings aren’t humble either, 398lb/ft is available at 6,000 rpm. 80% of this is available at 3,250rpm. A 0-100 km/h dash of 3.4 seconds is blitheringly fast. Faster in fact, than the Enzo.
It is also interesting to note that this impressive performance is coupled with some low emissions and fuel consumption; the 458 will emit 320g/km, and consume around 13.7 l/100 km in doing so.
So, the all-conquering Lamborghini will have a renewed fight on it’s hands. Will be great to watch.
