The test drive

Visuals:
I have seen the California in person three times now. I should start by saying that I never hated it, but was concerned about the back end from the photos we have all seen. However, each time I see it in person it just gets better and better. In person, it does not appear disjointed as some pictures would indicate. The rear end is not grossly out of proporation. The fit and finish are superb. I noticed no body gaps. The paint was flawless, no orange peel or over-spray. The interior is well appointed and not tremendously different from an F430, with the exception of the design of the center console and the nav unit. The nav unit, by the way, seems like a huge improvement over its predecessor. It can be operated by touch screen or voice and seems easy to use. An ipod connector is included.

The 2+:
This tester had the rear seat option (as opposed to the package shelf). Let's not kid ourselves, we already know that an adult can't fit comfortably in the rear, especially with the top up. However, there is sufficient room for children. Those of us with families appreciate the option of sharing our passion.

The drive:
Saving the best for last. Wow. What can I say that other reviewers have not said already? The power is great. The torque is great - and very evenly distributed across the powerband. The dual clutch is perfect, flawless. I drove in both Auto mode and with the paddle shifters, also in comfort and sport modes. Even the exhaust note seemed right. Somehow they have engineered/programmed it to produce a sound that, sometimes, would almost fool you into thinking the engine was in the back and not in the front. I drove it first with the top down and then up. It was a pure joy. It took very little getting used to and the handling was superb. No body roll, no squeaks or creaks. The seats are very supportive (daytona seats in this tester). And yes, the hood scoop is functional.

For the naysayers I say this...this car is indeed what it is intended to be, a new segment for Ferrari. It is not pretending to be anything else. I would certainly enjoy having this car as a daily driver. IMHO, the F430 replacement will satisfy the need for a street legal racer and will benefit from some of the technology currently being "real life" tested in the California.

Last but not least, thanks to Steve and everyone at The Collection for their hospitality.

I encourage anyone even remotely curious about the California to go to your local dealer and take one out for a spin.

 

I take the Cali for what it is and I think was very well executed as such. In my opinion, comparisons are unavoidable, but also not fair. For instance, I saw a picture of a 360 taken from an overhead view - it was amazing - it looked like a lion waiting to pounce. The Cali was not designed to give that sense. However, as I stood at the dealer yesterday watching Steve park the car after the test drive, I was really struck with how well the slight retro references to the original California really work and give this new car a very sublime presence. It is not an agressive beast, but it does have its own x-factor.