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Ten Second Review

The Ferrari 488 Spider is the convertible variation of the 488 GTB coupe, both models replacing the Italian brand's gorgeous 458 Italia series. The key change here is the installation of more efficient turbocharged power but this 488 Spider has also been thoroughly redesigned in almost every other way to ensure that it will set a benchmark for the entire segment.

Background

Ferrari's switch to a forced-induction engine for its mid-engined 488 GTB supercar was another moment of sadness for the automotive world. The sound and response on offer from the normally aspirated V8 in the brand's old 458 model made that car one of the best drivers machines money could buy. But Ferrari had to change. Rivals like Mclaren were already using smaller capacity turbocharged engines to good effect and Maranello had to follow suit. Using the 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 from their California T, the Italian engineers designed and built the 488 GTB making sure the engine provided enough aural quality, feel and performance to take back the supercar crown. And you can appreciate that powerplant all the more in this open-topped Spider variant. It features a folding hardtop, allowing the driver and passenger to soak up even more of the experience and V8 noise.

Driving Experience

Extensive changes to the aerodynamics and electronic systems mean the 488 Spider moves the game on even further than the magical 458. The aero tweaks provide more downforce without the need for any style-ruining spoilers, so its handling ability can match its monstrous performance. The SSC2 (side slip control) system allows for greater angles out of corners and is now linked to the dampers as well the E-Diff and the F1-Trac stability control system for greater control. The most significant change though, is the turbocharged engine. On paper, it should be incredible - the 661hp and 561lb/ft outdo the 458 by around 100hp and 160lb/ft and have less mass to propel thanks to a small drop in kerbweight. As with Ferrari's smaller California T model, the 488's engine doesn't give all its power immediately; torque is limited in the lower gears to prevent overloading the rear tyres and the full 561lb/ft is only available in 7th gear. This means that acceleration doesn't fade with each higher gear: it gets stronger. As expected with such a vast power increase and clever torque management, performance is bombastic. Try 0-62mph in 3 seconds dead and 124mph in 8.7sec before hitting a top speed of 203mph. The figures alone are hard to fathom: the 0-124mph very nearly matches its big brother - the F12 Berlinetta, a significantly more expensive and powerful car. Just in case you were worried that the retractable roof might affect handling, Ferrari ensured that the 488 Spider was engineered to provide as much torsional rigidity as the coupe.

Design and Build

Several factors had to be accounted for with the design of the Spider; the extra power and torque required chassis and electronic changes to be made to maximise the car's potential. Using various exotic materials such as magnesium allowed Ferrari to shed weight and increase the stiffness of the chassis. The aerodynamic improvements make a significant contribution to the 488 Spider's ability. It provides more downforce which increases grip, braking performance and stability at high speed. The retractable hard top can open or close in just 14 seconds and allows the driver and passenger to soak up even more of the fantastic V8 noise. The extra chassis improvements to compensate for the lack of a structural roof ensure that no driving enjoyment or handling ability is lost. Add the aero and electronic tweaks to this and the 488 Spider looks like a formidable machine. Perhaps Ferrari's biggest achievement comes from its biggest challenge - overcoming the loss of response brought about by turbocharging. The engineers have managed to reduce throttle response time to just 0.8sec, just a tenth more than the 458, a machine widely regarded as one of the most responsive cars ever.

Market and Model

The 488 Spider has been priced at just over the £200,000 mark, making it comparable to price to Spider versions of the Mclaren 650S and the Lamborghini Huracan. The car also debuts a new colour designed to enhance its forms. The 'Blu Corsa' livery features metallic particles suspended in the paint to give the bodywork a gloss finish. Its unusual iridescent effect is created by the two-layer paintwork. 488 Spider buyers can also enjoy the latest in-car connectivity thanks to the latest Apple CarPlay system. This offers instant and intuitive voice and touch functionalities: everything from phone calls to map use, messaging and music. 

Cost of Ownership

One of the handy side effects of reducing carbon emissions is an improvement in economy. While the average buyer may not be too worried about the cost of a few gallons of super unleaded, we're sure they'll appreciate the reduction in wearisome stops for fuel. Driven very carefully, the 488 Spider can manage around 25mpg, over 3mpg up on the old 458 Spider, while emitting just over 260g/km of carbon. These figures may not seem that impressive but given the performance available, they're nothing short of miraculous. Also surprisingly sensible is the four year warranty that comes as standard, which can be extended by another year for a fee. Should you be planning to keep your Ferrari for a while, you can even opt for an extended powertrain warranty of up to twelve years.

Summary

The 488 Spider does have a tough task ahead of it. The brilliant Mclaren 650S Spider with its super light and strong carbon tub has nearly as much power and is a little lighter. Lamborghini's Huracan Spyder model meanwhile, offers the advantage of 4WD. You'd still be tempted by this Ferrari though, were you fortunate enough to be shopping in the open-topped supercar segment. Its turbocharged engine sounds every bit as good as the previous naturally aspirated unit and produces a lot more power than the unit in the old 458 Spider did. In short, in terms of looks, power and performance, a 488 Spider delivers everything you could want. And it's a Ferrari. Enough said.