Introduced four years after the Ferrari 458 Italia as a 2013 model, the 458 Speciale is indeed special. Though quite similar in appearance to its predecessor, the mid-engine supercar benefits from numerous advancements that elevate its performance to another level.
Ferrari engineers upgraded the F136 4.5-liter V8 with enhanced components and a lofty 14:1 compression ratio. Capable of revving to a screaming 9,000 rpm, it was the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 the automaker had built to that point. Ferrari claimed it held the highest output per liter of displacement of any naturally aspirated engine in a production vehicle at the time.
Other hardware upgrades gave the 458 Speciale the quickest steering response and highest lateral acceleration of any production Ferrari. “Active” aerodynamic elements improve drag or downforce as needed. A Side-Slip Control system works with the adaptive magnetic dampers, F1 dual-clutch transmission, and E-Diff rear differential to make ordinary drivers feel as skillful as championship winners.
This exemplary 458 Speciale presents as new, with only 5,106 miles showing on the odometer at cataloging time. It is finished in Blu Tour de France with NART livery stripes. It was ordered with Scuderia Ferrari shields and various exterior elements in exposed carbon fiber. The tan interior features special-order contrast stitching, seat inserts, seat belts, embroidered logos, and leather steering wheel and dash, all in shades of blue to complement the exterior.
An excellent choice as a collection piece, being in superb condition and driven sparingly, this 458 Speciale would be an ideal companion on Ferrari Tour events or track days, where its impressive capabilities may be explored in full.
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.)
