(continued from above)
The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and
cutting-edge technology, characteristics for which Italy as a nation is
well-known. For this reason Ferrari chose to add the name of its homeland to the
traditional figure representing the displacement and number of cylinders.
The 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia is a completely new car from every point of
view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics,
just to name a few.
A two-seater berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italia, as is now
traditional for all Ferrari's road-going cars, benefits hugely from the
company's Formula 1 experience. This is particularly evident in the speed and
precision with which the car responds to driver inputs and in the attention
focused on reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel consumption
than the F430, despite the fact that both overall displacement and power have
increased. However, Ferrari's track experience makes its presence felt in the
458 Italia not only in terms of pure technological transfer but also on a more
emotional level, because of the strong emphasis on creating an almost symbiotic
relationship between driver and car. The 458 Italia features an innovative
driving environment with a new kind of steering wheel and dashboard that is the
direct result of racing practice. Once again input from Michael Schumacher - who
was involved from the very start of the 458 Italia project - played an
invaluable part.
458 Italia's Compact, Aerodynamic Design
The Ferrari 458 Italia's Pininfarina design provides further evidence of the
complete departure from the past that this new car hails. The Ferrari 458 Italia
has a compact, aerodynamic shape, underscoring the concepts of simplicity,
efficiency and lightness that inspired the project. As with every Ferrari, the
car's styling has been very heavily influenced by the requirements for
aerodynamic efficiency, as can be seen from the downforce of 309 lbs at 124 mph
generated by the new model. The front features a single opening for the front
grille and side air intakes, with aerodynamic sections and profiles designed to
direct air to the coolant radiators and the new flat underbody. The nose also
sports small aeroelastic winglets which generate downforce and, as speed rises,
deform to reduce the section of the radiator inlets and cut drag.
Ferrari 458 Italia: Review (2/2)