Ferrari California gets performance upgrades

Ferrari has revealed upgrades to its California convertible. The V8 drop-top has been on sale for three years now, and with performance versions of the all-new Mercedes SL on their way, the Cali’s been sharpened up. Its 4.3-litre engine gains 30bhp and 14lb ft of torque – its maximum outputs rising to 483bhp and 372lb ft thanks to new exhaust manifolds and engine mapping. More torque is available across the rev-range, too, which should help make the naturally aspirated V8 more useable. Boosting performance further is a 30kg weight loss, yielded by new aluminium fabrication techniques rather than the stripping of equipment. It drops the Cali to 1705kg, so four-wheel drive FF aside, it’s still the heaviest Ferrari. With the power-to-weight ratio upped from 265 to 288bhp/ton, the California’s 0-62mph time is shaved to 3.8sec, putting its performance firmly in supercar territory. If you crave a supercar driving experience to match, then Ferrari’s new Handling Speciale package should help. It brings with it magnetorheological dampers and stiffer suspension, sharpening body control, as well as a quicker steering rack to improve turn-in. Production of the 2012 Ferrari California has already started, ahead of its unveiling at March’s Geneva motor show. It's on sale now, starting at £152,086 - a rise of around £5K. The Handling Speciale package will set you back an additional £4320.

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Ferrari California v Audi R8 Spyder v 911 Turbo v Jaguar XKR