Rarified Air: Comparing Luxury Convertibles – 2013 Ferrari California

2013 ferrari california
2013 Ferrari California

The Ferrari California is the least expensive car in the prancing stable has a base price of $201,290. There is no doubt that two full-sized adults and a purse dog would have a great time in the switchbacks with this one. Turning the wheel immediately registers in precise movement of the car, as if it were riding on rails.  A slight blip of the throttle gave a big, throaty growl that would melt the heart of any true enthusiast. The sound almost prepared you for the thrust you would feel a second later. Body roll in the corners was minimal, but so was ride comfort. The car felt as if it stiffened up when it encountered road imperfections and so did I.

Inside, the California rewards owners with surprising attention to detail and a quality feel. Front seats are firm but comfortable. Overall, the interior may come across as plain to those accustomed to more ornamentation in the cockpit, but I would call it a timeless design that won’t look tacky in ten years.

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The real reason to buy a Ferrari: The engine! A 4.3-liter V-8  rated at 490 hp and 373 pound-feet of torque. It’s also 66 pounds lighter than last year’s model, which cuts the 0-60 mph time down to 3.8 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 193 mph.  As for transmission, the only choice available is a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic. Every modern convenience (blue tooth, USB support, NAV System) comes standard and options are only limited by budget.

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It would be nice to tool around in a Ferrari for a while, but the cost of admission is only covered by the panache of the Prancing Horse. This is just a way to keep the mistress quiet. We also have reason to believe that the Ferrari California has the same stigma among the Ferraristi that the Dino had in 1974. There are other cars in this segment that raise eyebrows just as well, but cost relatively less.

Also, check how 2013 Bentley GTC V8 and 2013 Jaguar XKR Convertibles compare.

Speaking of Ferrari, check out this TFLcar video Ferrari FF debut: