Ferrari California

Why it matters

Presented at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari California revived one of Maranello's most evocative names while introducing an extraordinary collection of firsts. It was Ferrari's first production road car with a front-mounted V8, its first with gasoline direct injection, its first to use a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, its first with a multilink rear suspension and its first retractable metal hardtop. The two-piece aluminum roof transformed the car from coupe to open spider in approximately 14 seconds, while the 2+ seating layout and folding rear backrests created genuine luggage flexibility. Mounted behind the front axle, the 4,297 cc naturally aspirated V8 produced 453 hp at 7,750 rpm and helped deliver a front-to-rear weight distribution of 47:53. F1-Trac traction control, a limited-slip differential and optional magnetorheological dampers balanced approachable road manners with Ferrari response. The California accelerated from rest to 100 km/h in under four seconds and reached approximately 310 km/h. Its combination of daily usability, open-air touring and advanced drivetrain technology broadened Ferrari's audience and established the technical blueprint later developed through the California T, Portofino and Roma Spider.