The California was unveiled in October 2008 at the Paris Motor Show, launching a fourth model line: front-engine, eight-cylinder grand tourers. The name evokes the 250 GT Spyder California. It introduced several firsts for the marque, including Ferrari's first front-mounted V8, its first seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and its first folding metal hardtop. The 4.3-liter V8 produces 460 PS; the car was aimed primarily at attracting new clients to the brand.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreMilestones and firsts · Engine and electronics · Deliveries and the California 30
Milestones and firsts
The California marked a pivotal milestone, introducing several technologies to a production road car from Maranello for the first time: the first front-mounted V8, the first seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the first retractable hardtop convertible, the first multi-link rear axle, and the first direct-injected gasoline engine. Pininfarina designed the styling under the supervision of Ken Okuyama, and Carrozzeria Scaglietti manufactured the chassis. The car was conceived primarily to welcome new customers into the brand.
Engine and electronics
The F136 IB engine displaces 4297 cm³ and features Bosch direct injection along with a wet-sump lubrication system. It produces 338 kW at 7750 rpm and 485 Nm at 5000 rpm. Its exhaust acoustic signature was carefully tuned for both top-down and closed-roof driving. Weight distribution sits at 47 to 53 percent. The updated F1-Trac traction system derived from the 599 GTB improves corner-exit acceleration by an average of 20 percent.
Deliveries and the California 30
The California was unveiled on October 2, 2008, in Paris, with deliveries of the car—built in a new assembly hall in Maranello—commencing in January 2009. The California 30 designation was applied starting with the 2012 model year: 30 PS more and 30 kg less. In this trim, the V8 produces 360 kW (490 PS) and 505 Nm, top speed is 312 km/h, and it accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.8 s.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari California
When was the Ferrari California built?
The Ferrari California was built from 2008 to 2014.
How much power does the Ferrari California have?
Power of the Ferrari California: California: 460 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari California have?
Engine of the Ferrari California: 4.3 l F136 IB/IH V8. It is mounted at the front.
Who designed the Ferrari California?
Design of the Ferrari California: Pininfarina under Ken Okuyama (1997).
2014