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The newest prancing horse has arrived, and it looks like a good one. The specs are impressive and the styling is spectacular. They even kept the triple exhaust configuration as seen on test mule last week. I know lots of people were hoping that was just a temporary set-up, but I love it. Probably something to do with my love of the Ferrari F40.

With the 458 Italia, Ferrari have returned to their old naming format, using the model number to indicate displacement and number of cylinders (458 = 4.5l, 8cyl) a convention not seen since the 348 in the ‘90s. Being so proud of what they’ve accomplished in this completely new model, they decided to adorn it with the name of their country as well.

The new direct injection V8 provides more power (425kW/570hp) and more torque (540Nm/398lb/ft) with better economy and fewer emissions than its predecessor. Acceleration to 100km/h (62mph) with the seven speed dual clutch transmission is 3.4 seconds and the top speed is in excess of 325km/h (202mph).

The electronic suspension and diff controls have been tweaked to make it faster through corners and the braking system will now move the pads into contact with the disc on lift off to minimise braking reaction times.

As with most recent Ferrari projects Michael Schumacher was heavily involved in the development and testing of the 458 Italia and most of the new developments, innovations and technologies have been derived from their experience in Formula 1.

We’ll have to wait until after it’s officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show to see it in action. Although I’m sure it’ll be every bit as good as it sounds, I’m a little concerned that there’s no mention of a proper manual transmission. Let’s hope they have the sense to include it as an option.

Ferrari 458 Italia – Technical specifications

Dimensions

Length 4527 mm (178.2 in.)

Width 1937 mm (76.3 in.)

Height 1213 mm (47.8 in.)

Wheelbase 2650 mm (104.3 in.)

Dry weight 1380 kg (3042 lbs)*

Weight/power ratio 2,42 kg/CV (7.16 lbs/kW)

Weight distribution fr/r 42%/58%

Engine

Type V8 – 90°

Displacement 4499 cc (274.5 cu in.)

Maximum power 570 CV (425 kW)** @ 9000 rpm

Maximum torque 540 Nm (398 lbs/ft) @ 6000 rpm

Specific power output 127 CV/l

Compression ratio 12.5:1

Tyres

Front 235/35 ZR20 8.5”

Rear 295/35 ZR20 10.5”

Performance

Maximum speed >325 km/h (>202 mph)

0-100 km/h

Fuel consumption + emissions

Fuel consumption*** 13.7 l/100 km

Emissions*** 320 g CO2/km

Gearbox

Dual-clutch, 7-speed F1

Electronics

E-Diff3, F1-Trac, high-performance ABS

* With forged wheels and Racing seats

** Including 5 CV of ram effect

*** Combined cycle (ECE+EUDC)

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3. Car of the Week: Ferrari F40