Ferrari 458 Speciale with active aero debuts at Frankfurt

The only thing better than a 458 is, of course, a lighter, stronger and more aerodynamically efficient 458.

Toward that end, Ferrari unveiled the 458 Speciale at Frankfurt, a successor of sorts to the Challenge Stradale and 430 Scuderia, previous specials that, as good as they were, wouldn't last a race on the same lap as this one.

“This is the most powerful V8 Ferrari, never made before,” said Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo, who still speaks much better English than we could ever hope to speak Italian.

How big a leap is the new Speciale? The stock 458 makes “only” 562 hp and gets to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds. The Speciale, thanks to a 14:1 compression ratio, new intake geometry, and a higher-lift cam profile, turns out 597 hp and hits 60 in 3 seconds flat. The newly revised engine is the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 Ferrari has ever made.

The use of lighter materials throughout the car drops curb weight to 2,844 pounds. Improved Brembo brakes stop the car from 62 mph in just 101.7 feet.

The Speciale's most interesting feature, though, is its active aerodynamics. Flaps front and rear open and/or close as the car passes 93 mph. The flaps alter air flow to increase aerodynamic efficiency and provide the necessary downforce for different speeds. Montezemolo did not say if active aero will find its way to other Ferraris, but we can assume that it will if it behaves as promised, which it should.

“We have spent many, many hours in the wind tunnel,” the chairman said.

Note also the small side flaps along the aft end of the running boards, something downright Formula Uno-looking.

No specific pricing or on-sale dates were available at the time of the press conference, but Italian pricing was said to be coming very soon. The Speciale will make its way to our shores, too, but we don't yet know exactly when. If you need us, we will be at the beach, waiting.

By Mark Vaughn