There are a few schools of thought when it comes to the Ferrari California. Some say it's a logical addition to the lineup. Less manic that the F430 and soon-to-be-released 458 Italia, the dual-purpose California is a proper grand tourer. Others simply consider it one of the ugliest Ferraris ever built.
Novitec has now released its attempt to butch up the soft lines of the California along with a little extra power to back it up. The new upgrade kit adds a more aggressive front air dam, extended sills and a reworked rear diffuser. There's also a set of staggered 3-piece wheels with 255/30/ZR21 tires up front and 315/25/ZR22 tires in back. The spring rates were also bumped up and the car sits 1.4-inches lower than stock.
For extra power, Novitec reprogrammed the engine management computer for faster throttle response and a higher 8,300rpm redline. A stainless steel exhaust system rounds out the package.
So, does it do much for ya? Maybe it's just the black color, but it doesn't look half bad to us.
redliner says:
11:14 AM, 12/ 9/09
Am I the only one that see some Maserati in there?
brn says:
11:46 AM, 12/ 9/09
redliner, a little bit in the tush.
Nice looking car.
petrolhead85 says:
11:57 AM, 12/ 9/09
I can see some Maserati influence in the front end, but overall, I've always felt that the California looks like someone with a lot of spare cash sent their Mercedes SL to Pininfarina for a customized restyle. Not that that's a bad thing, since I'm a huge fan of both the SL and Pininfarina styling.
As a hint to Edmunds, I'm still waiting to read a "just for sh**s and giggles" comparison test between the California and the SL63 AMG. Yes I know they wont be cross-shopped, and the SL65 is more similarly priced, but on paper, the SL63 looks to be very similar to the California.
sgude says:
08:09 PM, 12/ 9/09
Wow -- it IS the black. This car is gorgeous. Well done, Novitec.