Ferrari unveiled the brand new 458 Italia at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show yesterday. The 8-cylinder two-seater berlinetta with a mid-to-rear mounted engine is a milestone in Maranello’s manufacture of high-performance sports cars. The Ferrari 458 Italia’s technological innovations inspired directly from the race track, and Michael Schumacher’s contribution right from the early stages of the project, speaks for a vehicle ready to fulfil the expectations and ambitions of even the most passionate clients.
With its newly developed 4,499 cc V8 engine, which produces 425 kW at 9000 rpm, the F1 dual-clutch gearbox and a 1 380 kg dry weight, the Ferrari 458 Italia boasts an extraordinary weightpower ratio of 2,42 kg. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint is dealt with in less than 3.4 seconds and the maximum speed is around 325 km/h.
Ferrari took care of 458 Italia’s superb vehicle dynamics by reaching an ideal weight balance for a mid-to-rear engined sports car – 58 per cent rear, 42 per cent front. The evolved electronic control systems also guarantees the vehicle optimal performance in all driving conditions. The new suspension and the more direct steering ratio, ensures the car is extremely responsive whilst maintaining superior ride comfort. Ferrari 458 Italia produces only 307 g/km of CO2 and has a fuel consumption of just 13.3 l/100 km (combined cycle).
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