• Ferrari 458 Italia

Every so often, a supercar appears on the market that makes everyone sit up and take notice. The Ferrari 458 is one such example of this. Designed to replace and improve upon the already-loved F430, it delivered in every way possible and then some. The last of the naturally-aspirated engines, the 458 produces the tremendous sound and theatre that all Ferrari owners have come to love and expect: this new turbo era is simply not cutting it for some of the purists.

The 458’s interior is typical to Ferrari’s styling: it’s handsome, well-built and performance-orientated and the later facelift models improved on this with options such as Carbon Racing Seats, Carbon Race Package and Carbon Driving Zone. Not fussed about the inside?  Well, it’s the 4.5 litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that really propels this performance car to the top of its field. Delivering 562 BHP, the 458 is an instrument of pure speed, achieving 0-62 in an eye-watering 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph. Put simply, the power, noise and acceleration of the 458’s engine are what supercar dreams are made of.

There’s also the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that shifts in the blink of an eye and the ceramic brakes that provide massive stopping power when you need it. These, combined with an F1-inspired suspension and sharp and precise steering, mean that the 458 is an absolute joy to drive with great handling, balance and grip. The Manettino dial on the steering wheel also allows the throttle, gearshift, stability control and dampeners to be tailored to the driver’s abilities as well as road or track use.

On the outside, the sensational-looking, low-stance body, constructed from beautiful curves and an aggressive nose, produces more downforce providing even more aerodynamic stability. Add the exterior carbon options and you are looking at one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever produced south of £250,000.

The 458 is looking to be a strong future investment, mainly due to the newly-released Ferrari 488 (the 458 replacement) being forced by EU emissions to follow the smaller and quieter turbo engine route. With the 458, Ferrari have succeeded in producing a stunning-looking car that balances performance and speed with drivability, making it one of the most engaging and fun-to-drive cars in the world.

Specification

Top Speed: 198 mph, 0-62: 3.4 secs, Engine: 4.5 litre V8, Max Power: 562 bhp, Fuel: 21.2 mpg (combined), CO2: 307 g/km.

  • Ferrari 458 Italia
  • Ferrari 458 Italia 2