Not so long ago, a V8 Ferrari was regarded as a 'junior' Ferrari. Those days have gone. The 458 Italia, the latest offering from Maranello, may have a mid-mounted 4.5-litre V8, but there is absolutely nothing 'junior' about it: 562bhp, 0-60mph in less than 3.4sec, a top speed beyond 200mph and a Fiorano lap time to match the Enzo see to that. An expected price tag of £160,000 (before options) also puts paid to any questions of seniority.
The arrival of the 458 does, however, mean there are now two V8 models in Ferrari line-up: the folding metal-roofed California caters for those who want a little more comfort, leaving the 458 Italia, which replaces the F430, to focus on outright performance. Although the engines for both models start life from the same casting and both use direct injection, the 458's is stroked for a larger capacity and revs higher (to 9,000rpm). The result is the effective mid-range torque present in the California, but with much more top-end zeal. It is this combination that makes the 458 so much quicker than the F430.
You'll want to rev it for the noise and the drama but, crucially, you don't need to. Paired with the engine is a twin-clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the same fitted in the California, but with ratios bespoke to the 458. This is the only transmission available, meaning that for the first time on a Ferrari there is no manual option.
There's some consolation in the fact that the DCT works exceptionally well, performing equally well at slow speeds as it does on track, delivering sufficient mechanical interaction in the process. With an engine and gearbox that together make it incredibly easy to reach quite frightening speeds ludicrously quickly, it is a relief that the 458 handles as well as it does. As a mid-engined Ferrari, it obviously it has exceptional levels of agility. However, where the 458 makes a massive advance over the F430 is in front-end grip and exploitability: on a dry track the F430 was brilliant, but on a damp narrow road it could feel flighty and nervous.
Although in some respects the 458 is sharper still, particularly the steering, it also manages to provide more feel and more confidence. Which not only makes it quicker, but more enjoyable too. The improvements aren't limited to the 458's performance, though. The cabin also looks futuristic, is driver-centric and indulgent, but is also functional and comfortable.
Likewise, the refinement and ride is impressive for a supercar. Although prices have yet to be confirmed, Ferrari has indicated that the 458 will be around 10% more expensive than the F430. The 458 is, however, so much more capable than the car it replaces, that even at this price it looks like a bargain.
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