Frankfurt Motorshow 2011 Dispatch: Ferrari 458 Spider

The Ferrari 458 Spider is the world’s first mid-rear engined berlinetta that’s equipped with a retractable hard top (patented by Ferrari) and it made it’s debut at the Frankfurt Motorshow 2011. It packs a naturally-aspirated, direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 engine which was actually nominated for the 2011 International Engine of the Year. Add to that Ferrari’s dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission integrated with the F1-Trac traction control and you’ll have a guaranteed unbelievable driving experience.

How does this all translate to performance? The Ferrari 458 Spider has a maximum speed of 320 km/h and it can hit 0-100 km/h in under 3.4 seconds.

For better appreciation, here are the 458 Spider technical specs:

Dimensions
Length: 4527 mm (178.2 in.)
Width: 1937 mm (76.3 in.)
Height: 1211 mm (47.7 in.)
Wheelbase: 2650 mm (104.3 in.)
Dry weight: 1430 kg (3153 lbs)*
Weight/power ratio: 2.51 kg/CV (7.42 lbs/kW)
Weight distribution fr/r: 42%/58%

Engine
Type: 90° V8
Displacement: 4499 cc (274.5 cu in.)
Maximum power: 570 CV (425 kW)** @ 9000 rpm
Maximum torque: 540 Nm (398 lbs/ft) @ 6000 rpm
Specific power output: 127 CV/l
Compression ratio: 12.5:1

Tyres
Front: 235/35 ZR20 8.5″
Rear: 295/35 ZR20 10.5″

Fuel consumption + emissions
Fuel consumption***: 11.8 l/100 km
Emissions***: 275 g CO2/km

Gearbox
Dual-clutch, 7-speed F1

Electronics
E-Diff3, F1-Trac, high-performance ABS
* With forged wheels and Racing seats
** Including 5 CV of ram effect
*** Combined cycle with HELE system (ECE+EUDC)

And of course, more photos for everyone to enjoy!

Click here to read our other Frankfurt Motorshow 2011 Dispatches!