First Look: 2012 Ferrari California

Ferrari has shown an updated version of its California retractable hardtop, a car that is lighter, quicker, and more agile than the already competent (very) outgoing model.

To start, Ferrari engineers have squeezed more power out of the California’s V-8, getting 490 horsepower versus the last car’s 460, and raising torque to around 372 pound-feet (505 newton-meters) from 357 pound-feet.

[Click here to read our review of the 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia.]

The overall curb weight of the California has also been reduced to help capitalize on this extra power. Ferrari credits aluminum fabrication techniques and new construction methods with helping reduce the car’s weigh by around 66 pounds (30 kilograms). The lighter car will now sprint 0-62 miles per hour in just 3.8 seconds.

Ferrari is also now offering a “handling speciale” package, with magnetic dampers, a more powerfully fast ECU, stiffer springs, and a quicker steering ratio. Those reviewers that called out the first California as being a bit to soft for the breed, should take note.

Please scroll down to read Ferrari’s official press release.

Geneva debut for lighter, more powerful Ferrari California with new "handling speciale" package

Maranello, 15 February – The Geneva Motor Show will see the official debut of the new version of the Ferrari California, production of which has already commenced, with a reduction of weight of 30 kg and an increase in power output of 30 CV.

The Ferrari California’s GDI V8 now delivers 490 hp with maximum torque of 505 Nm at 5,000 rpm, thanks to new exhaust manifolds and engine mapping. The torque curve has also been modified and is higher across the engine’s generous rev range.

Cutting-edge aluminium fabrication techniques and construction technologies used by the Scaglietti Centre of Excellence in the manufacture of the Ferrari California’s chassis, have led to an overall reduction of 30 kg in the car’s weight without impinging in any way on its structural rigidity and performance.

These enhancements have improved the Ferrari’s California’s performance, reducing its 0-100 km/acceleration time to 3.8 seconds. This heightens its sporty feel without detracting from the mission and character of a car that has won universal acclaim for its performance and exceptional versatility resulting from its retractable hard top and 2+ seating. To meet the needs of clients desiring a more dynamic, yet not overly extreme, driving experience, an optional Handling Speciale package has been developed which encompasses modifications to the suspension set-up that minimise body roll and make the car even more responsive to driver inputs.

The Handling Speciale package includes Magnetorheological dampers controlled by an even faster ECU (-50% response time) running patented Ferrari software. The package also features stiffer springs for more precise body control combined with a comfortable ride. Lastly, the California benefits from faster turn-in with smaller steering wheel angles thanks to a new steering box with a 10 per cent quicker steering ratio.

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.

The technical features are matched by a new, even more extensive choice of colours developed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, including two-tone finishes, three-layer paint technology and modern re-interpretations of classic colour schemes which increase the exclusive personalisation possibilities even further. In addition, the Ferrari California benefits from the free seven-year standard maintenance programme.

The availability of the lighter and more powerful vehicle, along with the optional Handling Speciale package, varies according to each market with first deliveries scheduled for Europe.