Making its debut in Geneva, the revised 2013 Ferrari California gets a number of focused upgrades that boost its power, lower its curb weight and add a new Handling Speciale package to the options roster that promises to give this scintillating 2+2 retractable hardtop an even greater degree of agility.
Changes to the exhaust manifolds and computer controlled engine mapping have bumped vital stats of the Ferrari California‘s 4.3-liter direct-injected V8 to 483 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque, gains of 50 and 15 output units, respectively. And torque is now served up in a more expansive curve across the entire rev range. Improvements to the aluminum fabrication techniques and related construction methods by the Scaglietti Center of Excellence that builds the California’s chassis have successfully trimmed some 66 pounds from the package without impacting any of its strength or structural rigidity. Collectively, those improvements in the car’s power-to-weight ratio help quicken its 0-62 mph acceleration time to just 3.8 seconds.
As a final flourish "to meet the needs of clients desiring a more dynamic, yet not overly extreme, driving experience," buyers will be able to order the 2013 Ferrari California with an optional Handling Speciale package. While all California models will get a new steering box that has a 10-percent quicker ratio that facilitates even faster turn-in, the Handling Speciale package adds computer-controlled Magnetorheological dampers with a 50-percent quicker response time as well as stiffer spring rates, a matchup Ferrari claims will provide more precise body control and still afford good ride comfort.
On a purely cosmetic level, the 2013 Ferrari California will offer an even more expansive color palette, including new two-tone finishes and "modern reinterpretations of classic color schemes" aimed at further broadening the personalization potential. All cars also will be covered by a free, seven-year standard maintenance program.
The revamped 2013 Ferrari California will initially go on sale in Europe, followed by other world markets. No word yet as to its arrival time here or on U.S. pricing, which is likely to remain close to the current $200,000 level.
