Loud, rude and eager to shock, the Speciale uses the esteemed 458 Italia as a jumping-off point for a much more raw and rewarding driving experience.
The changes start with the engine. Ferrari rejiggers the Italia's 4.5-liter V-8 to be lighter, more responsive and powerful. It now has 596 horsepower versus the Italia's 562, while torque remains the same at 398 pound-feet.
A reprogrammed seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sends enough of this power to the rear wheels for a zero-to-60-mph time of three seconds, Ferrari said.
Active aerodynamics have been designed into the car to maximize down force. Computer-controlled flaps and dams open and shut, depending on the car's speed, to provide additional grip on the road.
The car's singular purpose is clear from the list of options — or the lack of them. The stereo, sound deadening, floor mats and door trim have all been jettisoned in the name of weight. The windows and seats are thinner, the 20-inch wheels are lighter; the rear glass covering the engine is now a Lexan panel. The Speciale's 3,075 curb weight is around 200 pounds lighter than the Italia.
The result of such subtractions — paired with the retuned engine — is one of the most thrilling, predictable and communicative cars on the market. It forms a mind-meld with the driver, relaying every nuance of the car's grip on the road.
The engine races easily to its 9,000-rpm redline by way of the wonderfully linear throttle. The NASA-worthy stability software works invisibly with the driver to keep this car's shiny side up. The retuned suspension's adjustable magnetic dampers and stiffer springs all but eliminate body roll.
The $288,000 starting price for this version is a cool $55,000 more than the Italia. The upgrade is worth the money — and a relative bargain compared to even more exotic million-dollar supercars with 1,000 horsepower and goofy scissor doors. This 458 Speciale steals hearts just as easily as headlines.