Jalopnik: Ferrari

New Photos Reveal The 2009 Ferrari California In Glorious Detail

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EDT

We just received a full load of pictures of the steamy and dreamy 2009 Ferrari California. Ever since the new Ferrari GT made its well-planned debut, we've been slowly digesting the few images we've seen, hungry for more like them. In full, high-color, close-up, car-pr0n detail, we're now treated to views of the new Ferrari from every conceivable angle and all sorts of interior and exterior details. For instance, the steering wheel is pure sex and the gauge cluster has a slick monitor off to the left which details all kinds of fun driver information. We're even able to see the car has a dedicated "launch" button. This, we like. But were we pleased about everything we saw?

No. We don't like the nav system. It looks terrifyingly like a repainted Chrysler unit. Also...umm...well...actually, that's pretty much it. Hmm, well, anyway — let's just get back to the awesome, shall we?

The briefcase shelf in the back even folds down for trunk pass-through action. What's that? Those are seats? Oh. Ouch. We also get a peek under the hood at the direct-injected 4.3-liter V8 that'll be making the well-heeled sing the praises of it's 424 horses of goodness. Anyway, take a peek for yourselves folks, 'cause that right there is how you make a damn fine-looking automobile. [AutoMobilsmo.it (translated)]

2009 Ferrari California Restyled By Crash Test

Mark Arnold — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EDT

The new 2009 Ferrari California's been spotted on its way out of what appears to have been a head-on crash test. But don't shed a tear over this brightly-blue-painted California. It's died so that the rest of the fleet of Californias may live.

Unfortunately, maybe we should still cry a tear because we already know they'll all more than likely end up living their miserable lives getting their passenger seats chewed up by the tiny dogs of their celebutard owners on the way to a Beverly Hills Botox parlor. Still, maybe we'll be seeing more crash pictures — from the Paparazzo — just as soon as the celebutards get their hands on 'em. [Autogespot via AutoBlog, CzechFerrari.cz]

Ferrari-Badged, Chrysler-Powered Open Wheeled "Indy Ferrari"

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Once again, a tenuous grasp of the English language, a complete lack of shame, and a bitchin' custom car have led us to eBay awesomeness. Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on a genuine Eagle Roadster. Built around a 3.5 liter Chrysler V6 from the "Cab-Forward" era, this open-wheeled, tandem-seat automobile is street legal and available for you to buy. The fun in this ad comes from the half-truths and gross overstatements of fact. For instance:

This Radical is designed to provide the maximum performance and fuel economy 25 MPG & Daimler Chrysler reliability that Radical is known the world over for. It was designed with one objective - to provide the ultimate driving experience & fun & exoticness!

And you can rest assured with notes like this:

The engine in this Radical Indy car was professionally built by Chrysler Services which is one of the premier racing engine facilities in the country. The engine has virtually 4500 miles.

[eBay listing]

Jerk Pees On Ferrari, The Internet Erupts

Wes Siler — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:40:00 EDT

So some drunk Canadian teenager peed on a Ferrari. Usually that wouldn't merit coverage — we're sure 90% of the world's Ferraris have been urinated on by inebriated teenagers at some point in time. But this one involved urination caught on video, posted on Flickr, then YouTube, and has received such an outrageous response on message boards like FerrariChat that local police have launched an investigation not only into the teen's actions, but also to protect him from what they see as a real chance of violent revenge from forum fan-boys.

The clip shows "Gibby," obviously inebriated, releasing a pretty pathetic stream of urine onto the side of a 360 Spyder, apparently left overnight in a mall parking lot after its owner lost his keys. Upon discovering the video, members of FerrariChat were able to locate the culprit's Facebook page and subsequently his full name, contact information and contact details for his employer, who they've since harassed with late night phone calls. Forum members now intend to "show up" at a wedding Gibby is supposedly attending.

Speaking to the St. Catherine Standard, a spokeswoman for the Niagara Regional Police called the footage, "a gift-wrapped investigation." The NRP is now attempting to locate the boy in order to charge him with urinating in public.

Various threats of revenge have been made against Gibby (unfortunately not the Butthole Surfers' singer) by members of FerrariChat and in the clip's comments on YouTube. Not helped by Flickr photos that show the teen in Joey Carrera-style outfits and poses, those comments tend toward the elitist, suggesting that by being unable to afford a Ferrari, Gibby is somehow worth less to society.

The entire thing is so ridiculous that it's reduced our opinion of the kind of people that own Ferraris to an all time low (reduced from track-suited Sopranos wannabes to internet dweebs). That a group of enthusiasts is so unsure of themselves that they act out by trying to harm some idiot teenager is just pathetic. And as true Ferrari cognoscenti know, the 360 deserves to get peed on anyways.
[FerrariChat and The St. Catherine Standard]

Enzo-Replacing Ferrari Mule Spotted Testing In Germany

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 09:45:00 EDT

There has been an awful lot of Ferrari news lately, considering the unveil of the 2009 Ferrari California, the official announcement of the oft-rumored Ferrari hybrid program, and news the Enzo replacement would come in a high-powered fun-sized package. Given that, speculation on the latest round of spy photographs is basically an exercise in throwing a dart at the wall. This taped up and modified F430 was captured in Germany and, among the suspicious elements, the exhaust tucked up under the body in an Enzo-like fashion is the one which most raises interest. Well, that and the taped-over rear window. While some are claiming it's the Enzo replacement, they're also claiming it'll have a turbocharged V6 or use the California's direct-injection V8. According to our sources, they're wrong.

What is Ferrari creating in there? Like we said, could be darn near anything. But If it's the planned Enzo replacement, we're told it'll have the Twin-Turbo V8 rather than a smaller turbo'ed V6 or the California engine all repackaged up. And if it's the hybrid, well, then they surely wouldn't want us to see any kind of gadgetry they've developed. Let the rampant speculation begin! [WorldCarFans]

Ferrari To Rich Customers: You Give Us Money, We Build You A One-Off

Wes Siler — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:40:00 EDT

Formalizing a long history of coach-built specials for super-crazy-rich customers (remember the James Glickenhaus Ferrari P4/5?), Ferrari has confirmed to Car magazine that they'll build you just about any car you want if you're prepared to pay for it. We're not talking about the Scaglietti personalization program here either; the only limitations are no SUVs, station wagons or sedans, and you have to use the chassis and airbags of an existing model. So, how many zeroes are involved?

Add at least $3.14 million U.S. on top of the price of the car if you want a completely unique model. But, as James Glickenhaus will tell you, the money will be well spent, not only guaranteeing you top resale value at Barrett Jackson in a few years, but also ensuring that you'll get a car customized to suit your fancy — even if that means ostrich feathers and alligator skin. Let the crimes against taste commence. [via EuroCarBlog]

Ferrari Announces Hybrid Development, World Officially Gone Mad

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:20:00 EDT

If you hadn't already divined it from the tea leaves Ferrari has been sprinkling around lately, hybridization is officially coming to the Ferrari stable. Whether it was the bold proclamation at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show that Ferrari would reduce its emissions by 40% by 2012, or the recent hybridized F1 cars outfitted with the KERS system, we all knew it had to happen. Apparently 2015 is where the blindly thrown dart landed on the wall of time.

Ferrari President Luca Cordero di Montezemolo stressed in an interview with German mag Welt am Sonntag (World on Sunday) it was their goal to reach the emissions targets, but the car that emerges will still need be "fundamentally a Ferrari." We agree, and think that if anyone can pull it off, Ferrari can — when cost is essentially no object, a hybrid can be a fire-breathing, huge-torque road menace. And there's no reason to expect anything less from the prancing pony. [SMH.com]

Ferrari California Caught Topless Out-Of-Doors

Ray Wert — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:20:00 EDT

The enterprising spy photographers of Auto Express have caught the new drop-top 2009 Ferrari California with said top, dropped. While we're expecting to see the California go topless in the privacy of the exhibit halls of the Paris Motor Show to show off that beautiful leather interior, we didn't expect to see it do the same out in the open. Jeez, you'd think the California would have a bit more shame — especially considering the nude-friendly Bassona Beach is merely an hour and a half East of Maranello. Some Italian GT super cars, right? [Auto Express]

Alfa Romeo Could Californicate, Build 8C Replacement Off Ferrari California

Mark Arnold — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EDT

In a recent interview, Alfa Romeo's global marketing director, Sergio Cravero, expressed his desire to have an Alfa Romeo model based on the new 2009 Ferrari California. "It would be great if Ferrari let us do it... but they are very hard to convince." The potential model would be a replacement for Alfa's current dragon-bait halo cars, the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider. Of course, the 8C hasn't been a directly profitable model for Alfa, so we're thinking that they're hoping to actually make some money by mooching more from Ferrari for the next car. [autocar]

Novitec Rosso Twin-Supercharged Ferrari 430 Scuderia

Mark Arnold — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EDT

What happens when you bolt two superchargers to a Ferrari 430 Scuderia? Well, you get 717 HP at 8,350 RPM, and 532 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 RPM. That massive power is good for 216 MPH when equipped with an available taller gear ratio. Accelerating from a standstill, you'll hit 62 MPH in 3.5 seconds, and 124 MPH in 10.1 seconds. But don't think that this is just a straight-line showoff — at least it'd better not be for the price.

The standard Ferrari 430 Scuderia is already known for it's handling prowess, but Novitec Rosso goes one step further with new lowering springs. Grip is also aided by bigger Pirelli rubber, 235/30 ZR 20 in the front and 325/25 ZR 20 in the rear, wrapped around the new rims. There are other cosmetic tweaks here and there, but seeing as the whole package costs about $74,000 in addition to the cost of a standard Ferrari 430 Scuderia, we would expect nothing less.
[TuningNews]

2009 Ferrari California Shows Convertible Top In Action

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EDT

Oh, 2009 Ferrari California, you are such a tease. After months of spy photo speculation, you come at us with a lullaby of engine sounds, then we finally see you revealed in all your grand touring glory, and then we get the equivalent of an burlesque show with the static shot of the top in transformation. Now, finally we get to see the full show: how that all-important-to-the-buying-public convertible hardtop works. In a word, fast. It only takes 15 seconds to go "from the commotion of downtown LA to the tranquility of garble garble." We especially like that flippy thing it does with the rear glass right at the end. Take that and stick it in your pipe, origami-folding Volvo C70. [4wheelsblog]

Speed:Sport:Life Pits GT500 Against F430 Against Elise Against... Caliber SRT-4?

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EDT

In what they're dubbing the "Imaginary Internet Millionaire Track Test," the assemblage of miscreants that traffic in words under the banner of Speed:Sport:Life have assembled a Ferrari F430, Mustang GT500, Lotus Elise and a Caliber SRT-4 for a head-to-head showdown at MSR Houston. We're guessing the equally arbitrary Sentra SE-R Spec V wasn't available? Their observations of the Caliber come close to our views, but the results didn't come anywhere close to our expectations. You'll never believe who won. [Speed:Sport:Life]

The 2009 Ferrari California Goes Outside To Get Some Sun

Mark Arnold — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Those of us who have been waiting to judge the styling of the new 2009 Ferrari California until we had non-studio photos to look at are in luck: Judgement day has arrived. These are the first shots we've seen of the brand new folding-hardtop Ferrari outside of the studio and not wrapped up in camo. But we're still not sure what we think about the styling.

The California definitely looks like it fits in with the rest of the current Ferrari range. But depending on who you ask, that's not necessarily a good thing. Now that we can see real-life lighting on the red-painted surface, the lines don't look quite as exaggerated as they did in the studio...but we're just not sure if we like those lines or not. The car's certainly not as subtle as a Aston Martin V8 Vantage, but you'd be hard-pressed to call it downright ugly. Perhaps just a bit over-styled. But that's just us; what do you think?
[autobild via carscoop]

A 900 HP Ferrari "Millechili" Will Make The Enzo Look Like Chopped Liver

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:20:00 EDT

With the Enzo now out of production, and no mega-super-car in the Ferrari stable, the prancing stallion brand believes the Millechili concept, first revealed at the automaker's 60th anniversary extravaganza, to move from the realm of conceptual toilet paper tubes to production. Fuel to that fire comes today by way of Car und Driver. The buff book's sources report Ferrari is looking to see the Ferrari Millechili hit the streets as a 2010 model. The only thing is — what the hell would the numbers look like given the concept's slim n' trim weight?

Though still based on a slightly stretched version of the delightful Ferrari F430, this car will be adding both horsepower and serious lightness. Although our sources give us different numbers than the 1000 Kg and 2,200 lb target originally given with the concept. Our whispers, coming by way of a source with intimate knowledge of Ferrari's upcoming product lineup, tell us the targets are far more aggressive than other outlets are reporting, with Ferrari setting goals of 900 Kg, or 1,984 lbs on the weight side. And on the power side — 900 HP coming out of a V8 instead of Car und Driver's reported V10. Those are pretty eye-popping numbers — which we're hopeful will lead to eye-watering performance.

But what should we expect? The technology behind it is supposedly to come primarily from their dominating racing program. Reportedly the name Millechili won't survive, which is no loss, but the idea of a horse per kilo is a magical thought, even if the price will bring everyone right back to reality. [via Car & Driver]

Is Touring Prepping A New Ferrari Superleggera?

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:40:00 EDT

Next year represents the 60th anniversary of Ferrari's 1949 wins at Mille Miglia, 24 hours of Le Mans and 24-hours of Francorchamps — the first wins in what would be an illustrious Ferrari racing history. As such, there are rumors Carrozzeria Touring is readying a coachbuilt celebration of those wins destined to be called the Touring Superleggera. While it won't be based on the 166 Barchetta Touring that made history in 1949, it could be based on any number of modern Ferraris; the 612 seems to be the most likely. Our biggest question is "what will it look like?" We put pencil to paper in an attempt to find out; the result after the jump.

Our second question is "can the world handle another custom built Ferrari after the noteworthy Ferrari 612 P4/5 of James Glickenhaus?" Sure. Hopefully this one conforms to a more traditional style, just because we think the original 166 is a design masterpiece. Talk amongst yourselves.
[Autoblog.nl (translated)]

Project Car Hell, Ferrari Versus Lamborghini: The Rematch

Murilee Martin — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EDT

Taking care of recent Hell Project business first, the Bentley roared- or, rather, was towed- right past the Rolls in our most recent Choose Your Eternity poll, winning in a 75/25 landslide. Those cars were all right, but where's the eternal torment when you can simply walk away from your hopeless project after shelling out less than ten Gs for it? No guts, no glory! That's why you need to forget all about ordinary cars, hock all your possessions, and dive headlong into the Inferno. That's right- Ferrari and Lamborghini Hell! The last time we had this matchup, the Lambo drove over the Ferrari like a big angry Italian tractor crushing Enzo's Fiat 128 beneath its wheels. Let's see who comes out on top today!

Isn't it great how Ferrari has never built any car you can buy for nickels and dimes nowadays? Maserati has the shameful Biturbo episode cheapening even its best products to this day, but every single Ferrari- no matter how wretched- is worth quite a bit (with a few notable exceptions, of course). You might think this would keep you safe from a vintage Ferrari project; regardless of the strength of your yearning for a prancing horse, it's just not possible! There is no safety, my friends, because anything is possible; how about a genuine 1962 Ferrari 250 GT/E for under 30 grand? OK, we'll allow that perhaps it needs a few parts, and that said parts might be on the pricey side, but how bad can it be? Ferrari purists are no doubt pouring quadruple shots of Sambuca to settle their nerves right about now (that is, if their hands can stop shaking enough to hold the bottle), having read the description of such desecrations as the Chevy 327 engine transplant and the junkyard BMW sunroof. You have two choices with this project: pay what it takes to get a proper Ferrari V12 under the hood... or put a bigger V12 in that baby! Say, this Mercedes-Benz unit, which we think would look really good with six Webers.

Does Enzo Ferrari's arrogance with Ferrucio Lamborghini piss you off, even after nearly 60 years? Why, owning a Lamborghini would be your way of saying that nobody can give you the high hat! Only thing is, only coke dealers and entourage-laden rappers can afford the things... but wait- is it possible your pals at Jalopnik have found an affordable Lamborghini for your garage? Yes indeedy, 'tis true; here's an honest-to-God '95 Diablo with a Buy It Now price of just $45K, and it runs! We're not so sure the fact that it runs with "NO ENGINE LIGHTS" means a whole lot, given that the electrical system might be a bit on the shaky side, and the statement "The steering and main running gear have been restored to close to factory specs, however I don't think I would try for the advertised 200 mph" gives one pause, but: real Lamborghini (though it's technically a Frankenstein made from a coupe and an SE). The seller is even thoughtful enough to provide a Fieroborghini body kit, so you can avoid those costly trips to the Lambo dealer for body parts. Are you thinking what we're thinking? Put a Fiero body on the Diablo chassis for the ultimate Fieroborghini!

Read Our Post About The 24 Hours Of Le Mans, Save 23 Hours And 58 Minutes (Spoilers)

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:45:00 EDT

For those who didn't watch the entire 24 Hours Of Le Mans by subsisting on a diet of Bawls and Pop Rocks this weekend, we've got a short wrap-up for you. We'll leave the salient details for below the jump, just in case there are some of you out there that TiVo'd the festivities and are planning to dole out the oil-burning goodness four hours at a time for the next week. Needless to say, some cars won. Others didn't. There was weather. If you want to know more you're going to have to click the button that says "more."

LMP1 Class
The big news here was that the trio of Peugeots fell to the #2 Audi Sport North America car driven by Capello, McNish and Kirstensen. Hmm... the Audis winning Le Mans. Where have we heard that before? In case you were curious it was Audi, Pug, Pug, Audi, Pug, Audi. The drama continued all the way to the end with both the #2 Audi and the #7 Peugeot finishing on the same lap.

LMP2
Though not as exciting as some of the other classes, the LMP2 did feature the first Le Mans appearance by the Porsche RS Spyder. And how did the RS Spyder perform? The #34 in pimptastic purple won first, piloted by Van Merksteign, Verstappen and Bleekemolen. Sadly, the #41 Porsche piloted by Nielsen, Elgard and Maasen came in second. Why is that sad? Because their names are so much easier to spell.

LM GT1
The big showdown in the GT1 class was between the Gulf Oil Aston Martin and the Yellow Corvettes for class dominance. This year it was the 009 DBR9 of Brahbham, Garcia and Turner taking down the #63 C6R of O'Connell, Magnussen and Fellows for a second GT1 victory in as many years. As with the Audi-Pug race, this one also finished on the same lap. For the scorekeepers, that's Aston, Vette, Vette, Aston.

LM GT2
The GT2 was quite the happy story for us as the Risi Competizione Ferrari F430 GT driven by Salo, Melo and Bruni owned the Porsche 911's. Why do we care? Those are some Houston, Texas boys and right now Houston sports fans will take any victory from any Houston team. Second place went to the Ferrari F430 GT campaigned by BMS Scuederia Italia. The final for GT2 was Ferrari, Ferrari, Ferrari, Ferrari, Porsche, Porsche.

[Photo: Getty Images/AFP, LeMans.org]

What Do European Automakers Think About California?

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Naming cars after exotic places isn't anything new (remember the Alfa Romeo Montreal?), but it's always interesting to see what certain cultures think of other cultures. We have two newer European cars named after our very own California, the 2009 Ferrari California GT and the Volkswagen California. The former is a convertible Italian exotic and the latter is a Westfalia-style camper van. The question is, who is more spot on? Is California the state of ladies and lads running around in a drop-top Ferrari or a place full of people living in vans? Vote for who has it right below the jump.

You Are Not Niki Lauda: Ferrari 275GTB, Now With Bonus 7-Litre Galaxie!

Murilee Martin — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EDT

Continuing with VintageRacer's photographs, we now look at a terrifyingly valuable Ferrari ~~365~~ 275GTB that's about to head out onto the track and make some really enjoyable V12 noise. The styling of this car certainly showed up in a lot of early-70s machinery, didn't it? Make the jump to see all the photos and read VintageRacer's description. Note: I got the identity of this car wrong yesterday, so to make up for my mistake I'm adding bonus VintageRacer photos of a '66 Ford Galaxie 500 7-Litre.

Here was another car sitting in the pits that same race weekend. Talked to one of the Alfa Romeo guys pitted nearby who knew the car and the owner - evidently he's had it for a while, and it gets driven pretty regularly (notice that it's got regular plates - not collector plates). The plaque on the dash is great- "Remember, you are not Niki Lauda"

Chrome Ferrari 599 Lays Bling Smackdown On Chrome Audi

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:45:00 EDT

We all know the car, the polished-to-perfection Saudi Arabian Audi A8 you get in your email every four to six months, usually from the uncle who doesn't understand the internet telling you those durn furiners got too much money. Well, that car has now been tossed into the waste bin of internet history. We have a new champion of bling, a fully polished Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano. While not doused in platinum (as the email always claims), this over-the-top wonder takes advantage of the 599GTB's aluminum body and simply classes up the joint, with thousands of hours of polishing and buffing.

The fact that this car seats only two, has a fire red interior, obnoxiously huge wheels and rubber-band tires, blacked out tail lights and tint dark enough to keep the cabin cool in the desert, only adds to its mystique. We can't wait to see the emails bound to result from this one — "Damn Eye-talian/Saudi oil syndicate has too much damn money! They're taking our jobs!" [TheRealJDM via Cardoman]

Pharrell Forgoes Jalopnik Sponsorship, Saves Enzos On His Own

Travis Hudson — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:20:00 EDT

Pharrell, we're sorry the Gawker shop is closed...

...we'd have liked you to wear one of our now limited-edition collectible "Save The Enzos" shirts rather than have to make your own Enzo shirt. Feel free to drop a Jalopnik logo on there to let folks know where you snagged the idea from. But, we are happy to see you're doing the noble deed of trying to save this endangered species of rare automotive exotica. More celebs should be doing their part — where's George Clooney's outrage, or Angelina Jolie attempting to adopt one for herself or even Bono trying to organize a concert on the Enzo's behalf? We mean, come on — these Enzos aren't going to save themselves. Pharrell, kudos to you for doing your part. [Yahoo]

Ferrari Boss Flip-Flops on Mosley

Ray Wert — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:09:48 EDT

One day after calling on Max Mosley, president of the F.I.A., to resign, Luca di Montezemolo, Ferrari's president, changed his tune.

The Ferrari California Shows How It Goes Topless

Ray Wert — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:30:00 EDT

Ferrari's revealed some new details and new photos of the upcoming 2009 Ferrari California. Yes, it's the same Ferrari California we first revealed early for you a couple weeks ago. And it's the same one we showed you a week later with a Skittles-like rainbow of fantasy color options. Now we've got shots of the new Ferrari GT in baby blue showing you how the little baby prancing pony puts the roof down. Isn't it simply adorable? In addition to showing off the new paint job, they've also revealed a statement full of all the verbiage we've come to expect and love from Ferrari — from orgasmic exclamations of "driving pleasure" to references of "Prancing Horses" instead of using their brand name. We love it — check it out after the jump.

FERRARI PRESIDENT LUCA DI MONTEZEMOLO TEST-DRIVES THE NEW CALIFORNIA: "I'M THRILLED. IT'S A GREAT FERRARI THAT DELIVERS UNIQUE DRIVING PLEASURE"
Maranello, 29th May 2008 - The new Ferrari California, 2+ convertible, had a very special "test-driver" behind its wheel the last few days as the Prancing Horse President Luca di Montezemolo put it through its paces over several laps at the Fiorano circuit.

"I am very satisfied indeed with the work that the women and men of Ferrari have done," declared Luca di Montezemolo. "The California is an extraordinary car and I was delighted with the performance, comfort and driving pleasure it delivered. The California is, like all of our models, the epitome of cutting-edge innovation. Its gearbox, suspensions and chassis are the most advanced possible.

This is the first dual-purpose Spider/Coupé with a retractable hard top that closes in just 14 seconds. Despite its extraordinary performance, the California 2+ is also exceptionally easy to drive and has a space behind the front seats that makes it supremely flexible in terms of usage."

The latest photographs of the new Pininfarina-styled retractable hard top convertible released today show it with its top closed and in an Azzurro California livery. Azzurro California was the colour chosen for the legendary 1960s spider's appearance at the New York Auto Show in 1962 and proved one of the firm favourites with owners of that model too.

Like the rest of the current Prancing Horse range, the Ferrari California has been aerodynamically designed to deliver significant downforce values - 70 kg at 200 Km/h, in fact.

This is the first time too that the new 7-speed dual clutch has been used on a Ferrari car. This technology is the fruit of in-depth gear shifting systems research by the Scuderia Ferrari. The system utilised on the Ferrari California cuts the gear shifting time to zero and enhances to the utmost the car's performance in terms of comfort and driveability.

Performance is further boosted by the new Launch Control button which when hit delivers blistering high performance starts by ensuring correct torque delivery and preventing tyre spin during acceleration.

The car is 4560 mm in length, 1900 mm wide and has a wheel base of 2700 mm.

The luggage capacity of the Ferrari California provides further proof of the versatility of this latest addition to the Prancing Horse range: when the roof is up, the boot has a 360-litre capacity and a 260-litre capacity when it is down.

For the first time on a Prancing Horse car, the boot and cabin communicate directly, allowing a choice of luggage configurations to be used.

Particular attention was also paid to fuel consumption levels which in the case of the ECE combined cycle is 13.2 l/100 km with CO2 emission levels of around 310 g/km.

Edo Competition Tuned Ferrari Enzo Is No Fierrari Enzno

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 28 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Yesterday we told you all about the greatest Fierrari Enzno ever built, a piece of kit with such attention to detail it would make a Swiss watchmaker weep. Today we pick up on another niche coachbuilder following in the footsteps of the Fierrari, Edo Competition. Despite starting off with an actual Enzo instead of a Pontiac Fiero, Edo totally falls flat when compared to the magic of the Enzno. In-depth analysis below the fold.

We think it's fairly clear by these glaring faults that Edo has a lot of work to do, and we didn't even jump into some of the more disappointing details down the sides. Seriously, the Enzo is a good start and all, but pumping up a tepid car to a meager 700 HP, dropping carbon fiber bits all over the place, adding an adjustable suspension and quicker shift points is just totally phoning it in. [Edo Competition via World Car Fans]

Ferrari Hosts Soap Box Derby

Mark Arnold — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:40:00 EDT

Lots of people daydream of being part of Scuderia Ferrari, but the closest mere mortals can really get to living the dream is plunking down some serious coin for a Ferrari FXX. So if you're looking for a slightly cheaper way to play ~~dress-up~~ Formula One, perhaps you should consider joining the Scuderia Ferrari Club in Italy and entering their soap box racing league.

Sure the racers are powered only by gravity and ingenuity, but they do get to run on real race tracks. The first round launched the series this past weekend at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari at Imola. Though none of the racers are allowed help or input from real Ferrari engineers, it doesn't stop the soap boxes from wearing Scuderia shields. With gas price panic the way it is nowadays, we wouldn't be surprised if this was actually the first step in a development program for Ferrari's attempt at an X-Prize contender or something.
[Ferrari via WorldCarFans]

The Greatest Fierrari Enzno Ever Sold

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 27 May 2008 14:20:00 EDT

We've seen a lot of Fierraris lately, hopefully the world runs out of Fieros eventually so we aren't subjected to the ongoing night terrors they induce, but this one is particularly brash. This p**sy magnet yellow Fierrari Enzno is perhaps the finest example of the breed, complete with crooked, off-brand Ferrari prancing horse logos, four off-kilter exhaust tips, pop-up DVD player, brilliantly executed engine-cover-mounted TV antenna, luxurious APC racing seats... the list goes on and on. The best part is this car's claim to fame.

According to the seller, this car was featured in the obviously well known motion picture "13 million," a movie we all remember fondly (never mind that even IMDB has never heard of it). We just can't get over how spectacular this thing is put together. Is it possible for a car to be so bad it crosses the line into greatness? The answer is yes. (Thanks Henry) [eBay listing]

Ferrari FXX Testing New Tech?

Ray Wert — Tue, 27 May 2008 07:00:00 EDT

A camouflaged version of the successor to the Ferrari founder's vehicular namesake was spotted on public roads near the Maranello factory. Although the Ferrari FXX's already been revealed, it's the first time a camouflaged version of the limited-edition prancing pony's been caught with duct tape and vinyl covering parts of the front end. It's leading some to believe the Ferrari FXX may be making an Evolution beyond the original program end-date of 2008 to something more of a "mass" production version. We'll believe it when we see it. Until then, our guess is it's just out testing some new front-end aero-tech or some new engine re-tune. [OmniAuto via MotorAuthority]

Taste The 2009 Ferrari California Rainbow!

Mark Arnold — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:30:00 EDT

Sure, you could get the 2009 Ferrari California — the new GT from the prancin' Italian stallion — in red. But that's so, so...so predictable. This is an Italian drop-top sports car with an American name — ostentatiousness is the name of the game. Why not get it in any of the other colors under the rainbow — like "Great Pumpkin Orange" above? Well, for starters, we're not sure you'll be able to get a visit to the Hotel Ferrari California in these color combinations, but the good folks at pigmag.com have come up with a way to make your color-coordinated fantasy a reality with a nice do-it-yourself Photoshop Barbie doll-like game of Ferrari dress-up. Although a California painted to match your Malibu dream house will still cost you extra, for the meantime you can check out some of the detail shots we've just received once you're done with the colorgasm below.

Magical Mystery Tour Ferrari 612 Scaglietti Sold On Ebay

Mark Arnold — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

What do you do with your Ferrari 612 Scaglietti after you've just ~~beat it to crap~~ toured around India in a 72 day, 7,000 mile jaunt? Well if you're Ferrari, you dump it to suckers on Ebay. The promotional trip known as the ~~Magical Mystery Tour~~ Magic India Discovery Tour was a journey around the sub-continent to increase awareness of the brand name. So how many Tata Nanos could have been bought for the price of the big prancing horse?

Well, at aroung $311,820 USD, you could buy something like 124 of the $2,500 Tatas. Actually, we'd rather go on the round trip from Mumbai to New Delhi with 124 Nanos than some Ferrari with an ugly paint job. Though, the money from the auction is supposed to go to some sort of charity, so it's for a good cause. We remember hearing our Jalopnik Bangalore branch was supposed to have a test drive of the 612, but that might have just been a day dream brought on by too much chicken makhani. (Hat Tip to Shrawan!) [ebay]

Ferrari-Branded Audio System Has Ferrari-esque Price Tag

Travis Hudson — Mon, 19 May 2008 16:19:00 EDT

Ferrari has teamed up with Meridian for a some Auto Branding Adventures with the F80 home entertainment system. And by "home entertainment system," we really mean it's just a glorified clock-radio. The details are limited but it seems this home entertainment system has radio, CD and auxiliary input support. Probably the most important feature is the pristine Ferrari horsey that graces the front of the speaker. It's available in red, silver, yellow, white or black for $2,995. Yes, get ready to drop nearly three G's on a glorified clock-radio. You'd probably be better off printing off the Ferrari logo and gluing it to the Sony clock-radio you've been using since 1993 and saving yourself a large chunk of change. [Meridian]

1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Sells For $10,976,000 Setting World Record As Most Expensive Car Ever

Mark Arnold — Mon, 19 May 2008 12:40:00 EDT

How much would you pay for the car of your dreams? Well, the official record for the highest price anyone ever paid for any car anywhere was just recently set when a 1961 Ferrari 250 GT short-wheelbase California got hammered down at auction for €7,040,000. Converted to 'merican dollars, that's about $10,976,000. That is a lot of money, there's no need for us to add any fancy exaggerative adjectives here.

We honestly don't know how to feel. Sure, there's been multiple millions spent on the likes of everything from Bugattis to Cobras before. Just last year there was even some guy that paid $9,300,000 for a Ferrari 330 TRI/LM. But this little California clearly takes to a new level. Sure, we'd probably drop some coin on the car of our dreams if we actually had the means to, but $11-million? Really? We're guessing there's probably been more paid for a vehicle in some shadowy private sale, or that a some robber baron back in the day bought some gold-plated motor carriage for a higher inflation-adjusted price, but this sale is still quite remarkable given today's economy. The other thing that gets us is the winning bidder was some British radio DJ, Chris Evans. There's just something about morning radio guys that makes us— well, we've never heard his jockeying firsthand, so we'll reserve judgment lest we be judged. We'll also dismiss any conspiracy theories that this was all just a massive publicity stunt by Ferrari to stir up public interest for their new California, though it does make you wonder. Oh well, maybe we're just jealous that we don't have multiple millions with which to realize our own fantasies of owning one of James Coburn's cars. (h/t Kyle) [CarScoop]

Dutch Ferrari Takes A Swim, Needs Diving Lessons

Ray Wert — Wed, 14 May 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Oh look, another Ferrari crash. Maybe we should have run this Monday when we were having our Maximum Ferrari Crash Morning but now that we look at it, maybe the owner of this 360 Modena just wanted to take it for a little swim. Or maybe he just couldn't find a car wash open late enough. [Autogespot]

2009 Ferrari California, Revealed!

Ray Wert — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:48:59 EDT

Ferrari welcomed us all a little bit early to the Hotel California, and yes, it's a lovely place. In fact, check out the lovely face on the new 2009 Ferrari California just to see if we're wrong. Despite being told we'd need to wait at least another week before shots would officially go live, the prancing stallions at Ferrari have revealed three press photos of the new Ferrari that's been alternately called the "Ferrari GT," "Ferrari California GT," "Ferrari Dino" and "Ferrari Little Tiny One" in the spy photos. OK, maybe not that last one. But the rest of them are accurate. Whatever we used to call it in the spy photos, it's now set to take on a bit of West Coast flair. We'll be pleased as punch to see it in person in Paris later this year. For now, check out the photos below and press release after the jump.

New Ferrari California revealed: a hugely versatile, innovation-packed GT
Maranello, May 13th 2008 - The first official photographs have been published of the Ferrari California, the latest addition to the new generation of Ferraris launched in 2004 with the 612 Scaglietti and added to more recently with the 430 Scuderia.

The Ferrari California joins the Prancing Horse's 8-cylinder family which has always been defined by power and performance. It also flanks the flagship 612 Scaglietti in the prestige sporty Grand Tourer segment.

The new Ferrari California will satisfy even the most demanding of owners in term of its superb vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure. The new model will be available exclusively as a convertible with a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are aluminium, in line with the rest of the current range. The California will be powered by a new V8 engine mounted for the first time in the marque's history in the mid-front position.

In line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also features several innovations. Apart from its folding hard top, these include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The California's 4,300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a "flat" crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari.

As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the engine, which allows the Ferrari California to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds, will be coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that boosts the car's performance while enhancing the driving pleasure, improves ride comfort and reduces fuel consumption and emissions (c.310 g/km CO2). The comfort is further enhanced by a new multilink rear suspension system. The Ferrari California is also equipped with the exclusive F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to suit the typical driving conditions expected for this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material disks as standard guarantee superbly efficient braking.

In addition to sporting the marque's classic styling cues, the cabin has also been beautifully trimmed using quality materials by Ferrari's own skilled artisans. New accessories and equipment, such as the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system, together with optimised aerodynamics ensure that this is a highly ergonomic and enjoyable car to drive regardless of whether the top is up or down.

The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire a car which embodies everything the Prancing Horse represents in terms of sporty design and innovation, but also seek a car with greater versatility than ever. The car will be officially unveiled to the public at the Paris International Car Show. However, over the coming weeks, new photographs and further details about it will also be published.

Jerrari, When A Ferrari And A Jeep Make A Baby

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:20:00 EDT

When Enzo Ferrari turned down Bill Harrah's request for a 4x4 Ferrari, Harrah did what any wealthy car collector would, thumbed his nose at Maranello and built his own. Taking a 1969 Jeep Wagoneer and mating it with a Ferrari 365 GT, the Jerrari was born. While its original 4.4L V12 is long gone in favor of a far more reliable 350 V8, the weirdly attractive bodywork and handsome interior are still all there. Not only is it in impeccable shape, it's up for auction on eBay.

Yes indeed, one of the two ever built is going against the block and at the moment of writing, fetching a positively reasonable $8,100. Sure there are over six days left before the winner is declared, and it is out in LA so all those red meat loving, SUV driving wackos will be all over it, but still — Ferrari SUV. Cool. [eBay Listing] (Thanks for the tip mtdrv)

Ferrari GT Spied Again, Still Teasing Us In Camo

Mark Arnold — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:00:00 EDT

With just under 8 days until the official reveal of the new Ferrari GT, our anticipation keeps rising as the countdown clock keeps ticking. These new shots show off the camouflaged rear end of the upcoming stallion, an angle we haven't seen much of. Interesting to note are the vertically stacked tailpipes, something not seen on any other current Ferrari model. Technical details are still unconfirmed, but whatever kind of engine is in there, it sure sounds pretty dang good.

[automobil.se]

When Ferrari-Smashing Parking Attendants Attack

Mark Arnold — Mon, 12 May 2008 10:40:00 EDT

Continuing our Monday morning Ferrari smash-up meme, check out this Ferrari 575M spotted in L.A. looking like it was taken for a Ferris Bueller-style valet joyride. Unlike the mileage run-up in the movie, this 575M seems to have come back in a noticeably more Cameron Frye-like state of wellness. We'd hoped that Audi A8 from Brooklyn was a mere isolated instance of parking valet hoonage, but perhaps this incident demonstrates it can happen no matter the 'merican coast. Oh, and by the way, although we've got absolutely no proof parking attendants were the cause of this catastrophic waste of good Italian metal, we've also got absolutely no proof they weren't the cause. Take that, journalistic standards! [Hat tip to Anthony!]

Ferrari F355 Becomes A Spider, Driver Manages Not To Lose His Head

Ray Wert — Mon, 12 May 2008 09:20:00 EDT

Japan's Shizuoka province has a brand new way to spider your Ferrari F355. Leave your Sawzall at home, folks. Instead, slide it sideways under a highway restraining barrier. Just don't forget to duck. Seriously — how did the driver and passenger escape this wreck with their heads, shoulders, knees and toes all still attached? (Hat tip to Mark and Rahat!) [JapanToday]

Ferrari-Branded Motorola V9 Coming

Travis Hudson — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Motorola isn't one to shy away from shilling for Ferrari and this latest cellphone-sports car mash-up is further proof. Motorola has taken its previously boring RAZR 2 V9 cellphone and slapped Ferrari branding on it therefore increasing the sexiness level 10-fold. Normally in our Auto Branding Adventures, we're not one to easily give in to these types of products, but the Ferrari'd version of the V9 is mighty pretty. The checkered metallic patterns and red-everything is a tad drool-worthy for the gadget-fiends out there.

Of course, Motorola has included the lot of Ferrari background images, pictures, ringtones and more, but also included is a lambskin case that includes the familiar Ferrari badge. It will first be available in Asia and Latin America with a stateside release to be determined. [Gizmos.es]

First Official Sound Clips Of The Ferrari GT

Mark Arnold — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:40:00 EDT

We just told you about the new sound clips released of the soon coming Ferrari GT, but since some of you may be using some sort of strange internet browser that inhibits you from listening at Ferrari GT Countdown, we figured you'd like it if we provided you with the teaser clips here. Like we said, it's gonna be a baby Ferrari love-fest as that countdown clock keeps ticking closer to zero.

[Ferrari GT Countdown]

Ferrari GT Coming in 10 Days, 23 hours

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:40:00 EDT

The buzz machine for the pending Ferrari F149 just got a lot louder. A teaser website for the pending prancing pony which is apparently now called the Ferrari GT just went up and it's not only touting the time line for our first look, but also gives a specific countdown —10 days, 23 hours as of this printing 20 minutes — AND engine noises (swoon), AND a look at what we're assuming is the door handle. Hold onto you butts folks cause it's probably going to be a Ferrari GT love-fest for the next 10 days. [FerrariGT Countdown]