First look: Ferrari's faceifted F430 Spider

A NEW Ferrari never fails to be a drawcard at a motor show, and Geneva will be no different with the world debut of the F430 Spider.

The Pininfarina-designed convertible features a host of F1-inspired technical features including an electronic differential, which aids traction and roadholding, and a steering wheel-mounted rotary switch (the ‘manettino’) allowing the car’s set-up to be adjusted as required.

Notable design elements include a sizeable rear lip spoiler integrated into the end of the engine cover, big rear air intakes and a new rear valance.

The engine is set below a glass cover and is seen whether the automatic electric hood is up or down. Once lowered, the hood is claimed to take up little room, despite the central-rear engine layout.

Speaking of which, the F430 Spider uses Ferrari’s new 490hp (365kW) 90-degree V8 that can send the ragtop to speeds above 310km/h and across 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds.