Only two Ferrari models have ever used the California name before: the 1957 250 California LWB and the 1960 250 GT Spyder California SWB, which is probably best known for its starring in role in the 1986 teen movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off. The new Ferrari California takes after the handsone originals with its cokebottle haunches; unmistakable side vents; simple ovoid grille and big, individual-headlamps. We haven't seen the roof-up pics yet, but the folding hardtop is expected to ape the beauty of the original California coupé, giving buyers of the new California the best of both worlds.We know the California will have all-new seats, new instruments, a new steering wheel, new switchgear and a dashboard that breaks new ground for Ferrari in terms of design and quality. The touch-screen infotainment system means a Ferrari will finally have a proper navigation system and it's also worth noting that the California is, just barely, a 2+2, with a pair of tiny rear seats for very occasional use only. The engine is based around the F430's 4,300cc all-aluminium V8 and is mounted ahead of the cabin but behind the front axle (effectively making it a mid-engined car), the first time the Italian marque has used such a configuration. The V8 boasts a new cylinder head to allow for direct injection, another first for Ferrari, but for once this new technology doesn't seem to be in the name of high-revving performance. The California's output of 460hp at 7,500 rpm is down from the F430's 490hp at 8500 rpm but the peak torque output is expected to be higher than the 465Nm produced by the F430. It's also expected to have a fatter torque band making the California less rev hunger and more relaxing. Ferrari clearly has its eye on the brand's overall emissions and economy figures, too, with the California producing a reasonable 310g/kmIt's also the first Ferrar model to use the company's new seven-speed twin-clutch transmission which helps the the California reach 100km/h in less than four seconds and a top speed well north of 300km/h. Naturally, paddle shift, launch control and full automatic modes will be standard on all models.The chassis and bodywork is all aluminium to keep weight down, while the folding metal hardtop is also made from aluminium. The front suspension will likely use a double wishbone set up adapted from another model, possible the F599, while the rear gets a new multilink suspension system to improve comfort and traction. Given the GT nature of the new California, it's likely that a version of the F599's acclaimed magnetic ride control will also be standard, improving ride comfort without dulling the handling. Carbon ceramic brakes by Brembo help unsprung weight and offer outstanding, fade-free performance while the F599's F1-Trac traction control system will also be standard, albeit retuned to better suit the California’s GT stature.More about the Ferrari California will be revealed on Ferrari's website over the next few months and the car will finally debut in October at the Paris motor show. The car will be made in right- and left-hand drive from day one so the first customer cars will be arriving into the UK and Ireland in early 2009. Prices? It's positioned above the F430 in the range and will likey cost more, so expect to pay around €340,000 to get one on Irish plates.
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