Topless Driving Perfection

The newest drop-top Ferrari serves up a heady concoction of gorgeous styling and out-of-this-world performance, reports Tony Tan.

- Tony Tan

The Ferrari F8 Spider is the convertible variant of the F8 Tributo, which succeeded the 488. With what might be the sexiest body Ferrari has ever created, the F8 Spider draws inspiration from another prancing horse that ruled the asphalt from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s – the iconic 308 GTS. Look at the roofline and the shape of its chiselled flanks and you will see what I mean.

Speaking of roof, the retractable hardtop twirls through 180 degrees as it folds in half and tucks into its curvaceous body. The entire procedure takes just 14 seconds and can be done at speeds of up to 45km/h. A cool, and smart feature is the small rear window which you can open when the roof is up. It keeps the wind noise out but allows you to enjoy the sweet sounds of the engine (more on this later).

The F8 Spider’s head-turning looks alone justifies its price tag. That instant when you catch sight of its wraparound rear spoiler and round taillights (further nods to the 308 GTS), you know it is a Ferrari. And that is all you are likely to see of this speed machine if you are not the one driving it because it is blistering fast.