The 458 Speciale
The Ferrari 458 Speciale is the successor to the F430 Scuderia and is one hell of a package. Many parts were taken straight from the LaFerrari hypecar, including the magnetorheological dampers (MD), anti-roll bars and carbon ceramic brakes. MDs are dampers that are filled with a fluid whose viscosity can be variably controlled by a magnetic field allowing the shock to continuously adjust its characteristics by the milisecond based on the current road conditions. This allows the car to have a more supple feel while riding through town and a stiffer more aggressive feel on the track.
Its engine recieved many upgrades from the standard 458 including shorter intake runners, higher-lift cams, new intake ports and modified piston geometry. Horsepower output increases by 35hp from the standard 458 but packs more of a punch due to the Speciale's 200lb weight reduction kit. The 200lbs is lost (among other things) through a lighter roof, thinner glass, a plastic rear window, a carbon fiber intake and thinner forged wheels.
Drag has been reduced and downforce has been increased thanks to a few trick aero-modifications. The front fascia has slits on the sides that guide air around the side of the car and vents above the wheel wells guide air that cools the brakes to the hip of the car before hitting its rear "spoiler". Active motorized flaps in the nose and tail reposition themselves above 140mph to reduce drag, bringing the car to a top speed of over 200mph.
Enjoy this video of Chris Harris ripping the 458 Speciale around Anglesey Circuit putting it head to head against the 991.2 GT3. Which one would you add to your dream garage?
