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458
Although the 458 is described
by Ferrari as the successor to
the F430, it encompassed an
entirely new design in terms of
engine, aerodynamics, and styling.
The 90˚ V8 mid-rear-mounted
engine is designed to produce
562 bhp at 9000 rpm – a first for
a road car with the eight-cylinder
capacity. The seven-speed dual-
clutch transmission from Getrag
guarantees faster and smoother
changes and is able to change gear
in 0.04 seconds. Maximum torque
is 540 Nm at 6000 rpm with 80 per
cent torque available at 3250 rpm.
Pininfarina’s design approach
integrates simplicity and lightness
while incorporating the heavily
influenced requirement for
aerodynamic technology. A single
opening in the front grille and
aerodynamic profiling directs air to
the coolant radiators. Downforce
is generated by small aeroelastic
winglets that deform at high speeds,
reducing drag. Former Ferrari F1
racing driver Michael Schumacher
played an important role in the
interior design of the 458; similar
to racing cars, many of the controls
and features are situated on the
steering wheel as opposed to on
the dashboard.
Produced
2010-present
Engine Size
4499 cc
Cylinders
8
0-60 mph
3.3 secs
Top Speed
201.8 mph
Power Output
562 bhp
Transmission
Dual-clutch Getrag
Gears
7 Speed
Length
178.2 in (4527 mm)
Width
76.3 in (1937 mm)
Height
47.8 in (1213 mm)
Weight
3302 lb (1498 kg)
Wheelbase
104.3 in (2650 mm)
(Specifications refer to the 458
base model)
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