Ferrari has unveiled the new F8 Spider, a drop top sports car that is designed on the same lines as the F8 Tributo Berlinetta. It is essentially a replacement of the 488 Spider; which now comes in with several feature updates and a mid rear mounted V8 engine. It gets a retractable hard top which takes 14 seconds to open or close which can be achieved even when the car is travelling at 45 kmph.
Ferrari states that the new F8 Spider is 44 pounds (20 kgs) lighter than its earlier counterpart 488 Spider; but 44 pounds heavier as compared to the 488 Pista Spider. Kerb weight of the new F8 Spider stands at 1,400 kgs.
This reduction in weight of rotating and non static masses such as titanium con rods, crankshaft and flywheel allows the engine speed to increase rapidly. The exhaust layout is also modified while the exhaust line gets a new Gasoline Particulate Filter as per new homologation norms.
It borrows its engine lineup from the Pista with a 3902cc V8 engine which offers 710 hp power at 8,000 rpm and 568 lb/ft (770 Nm) torque at 3,250 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 7 speed dual clutch transmission allowing for acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph in 2.9 seconds and from 0 to 199 kmph in 8.20 seconds with a top speed of 340 kmph.
This torque figure is 10 Nm higher than that offered on the 488 Spider at lower engine speeds. Its top speed is also a notable improvement over the 488 Spider which had a top speed of 325 kmph.
2020 Ferrari F8 Spider gets the latest in Ferrari technology which includes electronic limited slip differential, side slip control allowing for controlled drifting, Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer system to adjust brake pressure as per individual calipers and also to optimize traction into and out of corners. It also gets better aerodynamics with a new 6.1 version of Side Slip Angle Control system.
The 2020 Ferrari F8 Spider which will compete with the McLaren 720S Spider will see a price higher than that of the coupe’s $274,280 base price. The new F8 Spider also gets the company’s 7 year maintenance program which covers all regular maintenance items for the first 7 years.
