Ferrari has unveiled the F8 Spider, the new generation drop-top sports car equipped with the most successful mid-rear-mounted V8 in history. The Ferrari F8 Spider was designed in parallel with the F8 Tributo Berlinetta and features the Prancing Horse’s compact and efficient RHT (Retractable Hard Top) which influences the lines of a model that leads its category.
The F8 Spider is the latest addition to an exclusive and prestigious bloodline of open-top V8 cars that begun with the 308 GTS in 1977. It is less extreme than the 488 Pista Spider, but sportier than the 488 Spider which it replaces in the range.
Consequently, the F8 Spider sets a new benchmark for the “en plein air” sports car in terms of usable performance and exceptional handling, providing an incredibly rewarding driving experience. In fact, it excels in merging handling dynamics with surprising in-car comfort.
This Ferrari spider thus combines the characteristics of the most lauded eight-cylinder engine in history with unparalleled driving pleasure, says Ferrari. The F8 Spider replaces the 488 Spider and improves on all aspects of its specifications: the new Ferrari is 20kg lighter than its predecessor and weighs just 20kg more than the more extreme 488 Pista Spider.
Engine
The F8 Spider’s 3902cc V8 unit unleashes 530kW at 8000rpm and also has an impressive specific power output of 136kW/L. Its maximum torque is now higher at all engine speeds, peaking at 770Nm at 3250rpm.
According to the automaker, this power unit in particular further enhances the typical traits of all Maranello engines with smoothly progressive, limitless acceleration and zero turbo lag, combined with a unique soundtrack courtesy of a new exhaust system.
To achieve the 37kW increase in power compared to the 488 Spider, the new intake line is derived directly from the 488 Challenge. In the F8 Spider, the air intakes have been moved from the flanks to the rear where they are located on either side of the blown spoiler and are directly connected to the intake plenums. This drastically reduces losses and ensures greater airflow to the engine, thereby increasing the power. The airflow also benefits from increased dynamic pressure created by the shape of the rear spoiler.
The F8 Spider’s engine also inherits highly efficient weight-reduction solutions from the 488 Pista, which have cut the power unit’s weight by 18kg compared to that of the 488 Spider.
Driver-orientated cockpit
The F8 Spider’s cockpit retains the classic, driver-oriented look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined Berlinettas. A concept that creates a symbiotic relationship between driver and car, very much as happens in Formula 1, with all controls mounted on the new generation steering wheel. The sporty seats are also new.
The dash incorporates an aluminum sail panel supporting the central satellite and continuing into the dash itself. Also to create a sense of visual lightness, a sliver of carbon fiber divides the upper and lower parts, streamlining the whole look. This section also incorporates the optional 7-inch touchscreen passenger-side display and the dash is completed by the classic instrument cluster with its central rev-counter.
Maintenance plan
Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance program offered with the F8 Spider. Available across the entire Ferrari range, the programme covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years.
Regular maintenance is at intervals of either 20 000km or once a year with no mileage restrictions).
The service is available on all markets worldwide and from all Dealerships in the Official Dealership Network.
Performance
0-100 km/h – 2.90 seconds
0-200 km/h – 8.2 seconds
Max. speed – 340km/h