Ferrari unveils the 488 Spider

Following the 488 GTB's arrival in February, Ferrari has launched the striking 488 Spider. Of course, its main differentiating feature is a retractable hard top that can be raised or lowered in fourteen seconds.

Among the other changes is a revised aerodynamics package. The aluminium spaceframe chassis has also received attention, primarily to ensure there's no loss of torsional rigidity.

Ferrari 488 Spider (2016) Rear Side 1Ferrari 488 Spider (2016) Rear Side 2

Mechanically the Spider is identical to the GTB. That means power is provided by a turbocharged 3,902 cc V8 engine which comes mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

With 660 bhp (492 kW / 670 PS) and 760 Nm (560 lb/ft) of peak torque, the Spider has performance to match those svelte looks. It can sprint from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.0 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 203 mph (325 km/h).

Ferrari 488 Spider (2016) DashboardFerrari 488 Spider (2016) Front Side

Efficiency isn't too bad either, although many prospective owners won't be very interested in the subject. For the record, combined cycle fuel economy is 24.7 mpg (11.4 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions are 260 g/km.

The 488 Spider will first appear in public at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September. Ferrari hasn't confirmed a UK price yet, but it's expected to be in excess of £200,000 when sales commence early next year.

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