Up to Speed

The latest buzz in L.A.'s car culture.

« Previous Post | Up to Speed Home | Next Post »

Stick shift option for Ferrari California

August 26, 2008 |  6:02 pm

autos cars Los Angeles Times Ferrari California manual transmission HGTC track pack Michael Schumacher Formula One champion 4.3-liter V-8 So, is the upcoming 2009 Ferrari California going to be a cruising machine purely for posers? That’s the worry coming from some quarters of Ferrari fandom. And they might have a point: since when has a hardcore driver’s car had a retractable roof?

The answer seems to be: since now. Not only will the California be able to hit 60 mph in three-and-a-bit seconds from standstill, but the suspension has been honed by none other than seven-time world Formula One champion, Michael Schumacher. The California will also be available with a manual gearbox, which should really please the purists, and the HGTC pack that features such track-friendly features as a tightened suspension and carbon-ceramic brake discs. The car also gets a set of lightweight wheels.

With a 4.3-liter V-8 (set in the front of the car, as opposed to being mid-mounted like many Ferraris) and developing 460 horsepower that drives the rear wheels, the California looks like it has plenty of go to back up the show. It should reach the dealers next spring.

-- Colin Ryan

Photo: Ferrari


Post a comment
If you are under 13 years of age you may read this message board, but you may not participate.
Here are the full legal terms you agree to by using this comment form.

Comments are moderated, and will not appear until they've been approved.

If you have a TypeKey or TypePad account, please Sign In





Comments

How am I supposed to be excited about the unveiling of the Chevy Volt after seeing this!



Advertisement


Recent Posts
Up To Speed is moving to Money & Company |  November 16, 2009, 1:21 pm »
KTM unleases its 2010 RC8 R superbeast |  November 14, 2009, 12:03 am »
Aptera to try again for federal loan from the DOE |  November 5, 2009, 5:30 pm »


Categories


Archives