Ferrari 458 Italia unveiled in Frankfurt
16.09.2009 - Adrian Hearn
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After months of anticipation, the new Ferrari 458 Italia has finally been revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show. And who better to showcase the latest supercar from Maranello than Ferrari legend Mr Michael Schumacher. Well, 'Mr Stig' did play a large role in the car's development.
On first impressions, Ferrari has hit the nail on the head with the 458 Italia - it looks the part and is an extreme step in terms of design over its replacement, the F430.
It's much more hardcore, looking partway between the F430 and the Enzo, striking a scarily impressive balance of beauty and muscle. If the looks don't impress, then the performance darn well should.
Ferrari has fitted the 458 Italia with a new 4.5-litre V8 engine developing 563bhp, enabling a 0-62mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed 202mph.
The Italians are very proud of the 458's 'green credentials' with the supercar averaging a claimed 21.2mpg and emitting 307g/km of carbon dioxide.
This may not sound too impressive but to put it into contest, the slower and less powerful F430 emits 420g/km and averages 15.4mpg.
The 458 Italia will be going on sale in the Spring with prices expected to be around the £150,000 mark.
