Explore our in-depth review of Ferrari’s new Spider convertible GT. Discover how its folding hardtop, refined V12 engine, and innovative interior perform under torrential rain in Southern Portugal.
In a day marked by torrential downpours in Southern Portugal, Ferrari unveiled its latest Spider version—a convertible GT that promises 800 horsepower, exquisite handling, and a refined driving experience. But can a car designed for sunny, track-focused drives truly shine when the weather turns miserable? We took it out for a spin to find out.
A Convertible with Purpose
Ferrari’s newest Spider isn’t just about dropping the top—it’s engineered to celebrate the engine. Priced at €3,166 before options, this car carries the legacy of Enzo Ferrari’s famous saying: “I sell you the engine, you get the rest of the car for free.” While modern regulations and noise rules have tempered the raw sound of its V12, the car’s heart still beats strong, albeit only coming alive above 8,000 RPM.
Design & Engineering: The Perfect Balance
Cutting-Edge Folding Hardtop
Ferrari has refined its folding hardtop design:
- Rapid Operation: Four hydraulic pumps and an electric motor lower the roof in just 14 seconds at speeds up to 45 km/h.
- Weight Advantage: The hardtop is 40 kg lighter than a traditional soft top, enhancing performance and stability.
- Aerodynamic Touches: Winglets and a wind deflector smooth the airflow, ensuring the car remains planted even in challenging conditions.
Read more: Porsche Boxer RS Spider: The GT3 Engine Masterstroke Fans Wish Came 25 Years Ago
Interior Innovations
Inside, Ferrari has pushed for minimalism and functionality:
- Digital Dashboard: While screens dominate the cockpit, some usability issues arise in direct sunlight, as shadows can obscure critical controls.
- Steering and Mode Switches: Ferrari’s touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel—though innovative—can be frustrating, defaulting to an off state after 10 seconds of inactivity. However, the best paddle shifters in the business and intuitive mode switches still stand out as highlights.
Handling in Harsh Conditions
Testing the Spider on a rainy day proved to be an unexpected challenge. Torrential rain transformed an 800-horsepower roadster into what one reviewer described as “the worst wettest sheet day.” With the roof reluctantly kept up to protect expensive camera gear and maintain driver comfort, the car’s handling was put to the ultimate test. Despite the weather, the car’s GT characteristics remained intact, delivering a refined and stable drive in conditions that would humble less capable machines.
The Verdict: Refined, Usable, and Uncompromising
Even with the roof up and a few quirks in the interior design, the new Ferrari Spider delivers on its promise of performance and comfort. It may not roar as ferociously as its predecessors due to modern noise and emissions restrictions, but its handling and driver-focused features make it a true GT. If you’re after a convertible that can double as a daily driver—rain or shine—this Spider is well worth a look.
Read more: Supercar Chaos: When Luxury Meets Real-World Mayhem in a Wild Test Event
Ferrari may have tempered the raw aggression of its engine, but in doing so, it has created a car that’s both exhilarating and surprisingly practical. As one reviewer put it, while the Spider might not give you the unfiltered experience of old-school Ferraris, it certainly proves that modern refinement can coexist with pure driving pleasure.
As the rain eased and the roads dried, one thing was clear: while the new Ferrari Spider might not deliver the unbridled ferocity of past legends, its blend of advanced technology and refined performance marks a bold step forward in the evolution of the ultimate convertible GT. Stay tuned for more exclusive reviews and in-depth coverage of the latest supercar innovations.
