It’s more than just a Pista coupe, with the roof removed.
Ferrari surprised us with the unveiling of the Ferrari488 Pista Spider, the 50th drop-top model. We were able to see important details about the car’s performance, but we weren’t able to get an in-depth rundown of how Ferrari has improved the Pista Spider’s performance over the 488 Spider. The Paris Motor Show has begun. Now, the Italian automaker is sharing more information about the Pista Spider and the MonzaSP1 and SP2, two new open-top models that will make their public debuts at the show.
Since August, the Pista Spider’s twin turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 motor produces 720 horsepower (530kilowatts), and 568 poundfeet (7770 Newton-meters of torque). This allows the droptop Ferrari reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.85 seconds. The top speed matches that of the Pista Coupe at 211 mph (334 kph). The engine is paired with a seven speed dual-clutch transmission that features a new shift strategy. This reduces shifting times by 30% as power routes to new Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires.
How did Ferrari improve the new Spider over the previous model? There were subtle adjustments that included strengthening the engine internals and improving aerodynamics by 20% over the 488 Spider.
Ferrari looked at the 488 Challenge as well as the 488 GTE to find new strategies and technologies in order to make the Pista Spider more powerful than its predecessor. Engineers created a new engine intake layout for the 488 Challenge. This sees intakes moving from the flanks to rear spoiler on the Pista Spyder. This allowed for bigger intercoolers to be installed in front of the rear wheels.
Numerous improvements were also made to the engine. Engineers added specific valves and springs to the engine, reinforced pistons and cylinder heads and thinned cylinder liners. A new cam profile was also created to improve performance. The engine is now 39 pounds lighter (18 kg) than it was before. However, this doesn’t account for the additional 200 lbs (91kg) that the retractable hardtop has added to its weight.
Inconel exhaust manifolds, lighter crankshafts and flywheels, and titanium conrods also help reduce weight. Carbon-fiber engine covers, rear spoiler, and front bumpers are all weight-saving options. The rear window is Lexan. A 20-inch single-piece carbon fiber rim is also available. This rim is 20% lighter than forged ones.
Although the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider appears like a Pista Coupe, underneath are many improvements and changes that improve the Spider’s performance and handling. Although pricing information is not yet available, it will likely be higher than the coupe which starts at $350,000.