458 Spider

I haven't driven one but I don't get this "targa" feel stuff.

I've driven and owned a lot of targa's and the one thing you notice is part of the roof is over the back of your head followed by the rear glass separating you from the rear. It just seems like a big sunroof. You kinda get the worst of both worlds: no shade from direct sunlight but not much in additional wind circulation to cool you either. It's why I don't like them. They are an odd compromise, which is why you don't see them anymore on new cars.

That, and the fact that most targa's are a pain to get on and off the car.

The 458 spider has none of that. The roof completely goes down and the rear glass goes completely retracts (actually, it's adjustable). The rear roll bar hoops from a driver's perspective isn't much different than the F430.

I can't see how from anyone sitting in the seat they wouldn't think this is a completely open top car.

 

Having logged a few years and miles driving a 360, I will say that if you drive in traffic either on highways or city streets, the higher driving position in the California is an advantage. Especially with SUVs, as they tended not to be able to see me in the 360 and frequently crossed into my lane. Also if driving on crowded freeways, I prefered the California to the 360. I imagine that the 458, coupe or spider, would feel about the same.

As far as the convertible experience, they are both great IMO.

Although impractical, it would be great to own both.

 

Looking, thinking about a 458 spider.
Quote me about 2 yrs.
Like you my only concern is it's handling on turns.

Had a 355GTB and traded it for a 355GTS and noticed the difference in handling in the first jug handle turn I took.
GTB was definitely more rigid.

Fast forward to now, I'm wondering again....
Seems like its a trade off.

 

With all due respect, the 355 and the 458 spiders are worlds apart. The 355 was not originally designed to be a spider. It was an afterthought. The 458 was designed from day one with a spider in mind. And, the technology used to engineer and make the two cars are from different planets.

Will there be a difference? Sure. I big noticeable difference? Unlikely.

 

Very true.

 

I'm curious can you retract it while in a slow cruise?

 

I believe that is a no. If fact I think the parking brake must be on. It's to prevent an accidental
acceleration of the car while the roof is a sail.

 

I have been driving my Spider for 2 1/2 months now and every time I take it out, it just gets better and better. I was initially going to buy a coupé but after borrowing my wife's convertible last summer, I changed my mind. Driving a convertible is a great sensation as you feel, hear and scent everything around you. The Spider's sound is also different from the coupé which in my view is a bit too "harsh". When driving with the top on, you can still lower the backwindow and truly enjoy the sound of the engine inside the car - what a great idea from the Ferrari designers!

The Spider basically gives you best of both worlds: When the top is closed, there is basically no difference from the coupé but having the option of opening the roof gives you a totally different experience (it's like having two cars). The only reason for not buying a Spider would be if you are definitely not interested in taking the top off - period.

Did I mention how beautiful the car is?

 

I've traded my California and am waiting for my spider - Grigio Titanio over cuoio. I'm going to the factory May 9 to see it as it comes off the production line and will get delivery in late June. Specified the car at the Atelier in Maranello and have to say I prefer everything about it to my California (not that the California hasn't been an enjoyable car). To me the spider looks and feels like a convertible and has great perfomance as well. Can't wait!!

David

 

I had a coupe, traded for a Cali (wanted a conv.) then traded for a 458 Spider. The Spider is AMAZING. Although the Cali is quite capable and very comfortable, the 458 Spider simply tromps it.

I love the Cali and would have one again in a heartbeat. The 458 Spider is the tip of the point.

Have fun!

 

I have gone from a Cali to a 458 coupe. I am happy with the move. I will be getting a 458 Spider as soon as soon as my allocation comes up. That is SO cool to see it coming off the line. How does one coordinate that? I am planning to make the pilgrimage to Maranello next June. The Cali top moved (down or up) as long as the vehicle was stationary. The parking brake did not need to be on (mine was a my2010). The 458 is more car although I haven't driven the spider yet. Given my experience with the 458 thus far, I can surmise that the spider version will be outstanding!

 

i dunno if its just me but i dont like how the spider looks, i keep wanting to buy the spider because its a spider but i think the coupes look so much better... that back cover looks horendous

 

I can understand that Tony but for me, the rear deck evokes the 246 Dino Gt -- and that ain't all bad. Everyone thinks the 355 was "so great" looking, but where is its glass cover over the engine?

Coupes always have a different look than Spiders. To me, it's more than the looks. When I'm in a spider I can only see what's over my head and out in front of me. I feel more in tune with the road, the environment, and the car.

That's just me but I will agree the coupe is gorgeous and even better looking. However, that's not enough to stop me from getting a spider.

 

Forgeahead,

I pretty much coordinated it myself. I asked my dealer in Australia and they requested the importer to organize but no joy. Having been to the Atelier in Maranello in December to spec my car, I had the contatct there. I emailed him to ask him if he could arrange it and he kept track of where my car is in production and has told me when to come - May 9. Havinf done the factory visit and the Atelier, I wanted to see the first Ferrari I have ordered complete its factory journey. Probably doesn't make a lot of sense but given the prices here in Australia neither does buying the car!!

David

 

Agreed...for a track car, I would go with a coupe, no question. For a road sports car, the open top enhances the experience exponentially. I think both the 430 and 458 spiders look great with their tops down and the 458 looks like a coupe with the top--just not like a 458 coupe. But to each his own, as some people dont like the sun, the wind, the outdoors and the sound of the engine echoing behind your head. I also have friends with allergies would cant drive verts for this reason. And also you are more visible in the vert, and in a Ferrari that means EVERYBODY is looking at you. It does take some getting used to and many people dont like it. To each his own, you cant go wrong with any Ferrari.....

 

deppi0,

This is an excellent point you bring up.

I am in a similar situation as you. Have a 2012 California now. On the list for a Spider allocation sometime in the next 12-18 months I would guess. Can't decide if I will keep that spot or go to another California.

I love my Cali. Much more than I thought I would I guess. Love the styling, the long front engine look. But am drawn to the sportier and more "involved" nature that the 458 exudes. For my daily use, would probably never tap into the power differential though.

I have two kids (4.5 and 2.5) and they LOVE, LOVE, LOVE taking rides in the Ferrari. Don't know that I want to get to a situation where I have to drive two cars if the whole family wants to go out. However, in three months and 1400 miles, we have all been in the car only once.

So, we shall see. Gonna have a conference call with my dealer tomorrow. See where I stand. I have someone interested in my 2012 already. May just sell it through the dealer, take my profit and move to a 2013 HS California. Rosso Barchetta anyone???

J

 

You thinking of doing it too?

The folding hard top is a very big plus over rag top.
The missing engine display window doesn't bother me. I actually think they did it well with the spyder.

Bottom line, still flip flopping. Maybe if I get to check one up close........

 

I have one coming in September.

 

This happy little girl prefers her Italia.
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That's awesome! What a smile!

 

+ 1. I like the look of the coupe better also. But still going ahead with the spider. The lure of having the functionality of both the coupe and a convertible + the lure of open top driving is just too much to resist.

On a different point, does anyone know if historically which model retains its value better for the secondary market? Coupe or spider?

612scag

 

I love how kids show it like it is.
Hopefully, she'll have that passion later on in life.