Ferrari 458 Speciale A

Why it matters

Revealed at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, the 458 Speciale A—A for Aperta—was the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 spider Ferrari had produced and the final open model of the 458 generation. Production was strictly limited to 499 numbered examples. Its 4,499 cc direct-injection V8 delivered 597 hp at 9,000 rpm and drove through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the two-piece aluminum roof opened or closed in approximately 14 seconds. The Speciale's active front and rear aerodynamics, Side Slip Angle Control, E-Diff and F1-Trac systems were recalibrated around the open body, allowing the car to retain extraordinary precision and accessibility at the limit. Ferrari reinforced the aluminum structure while controlling weight, and used extensive carbon fiber, Alcantara and lightweight trim throughout the cockpit. Performance remained close to the berlinetta: 0–100 km/h took 3.0 seconds, 0–200 km/h approximately 9.5 seconds, and maximum speed reached 320 km/h. The Speciale A closed the naturally aspirated mid-engine V8 era with open-air theater, competition-derived electronics and genuine rarity, making it one of the most coveted modern Ferrari spiders.