For me the most perfect Ferrari ever made was the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Spider California…. Oooo Yeah…. If you don’t understand that reference, you need to watch Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, one of the best films ever made for Ferrari fans. For a generation, the name California was hallowed, special, beautiful and put simply the ultimate. But in 2008 the name was resurrected with not the most expensive model in the line-up, but the cheapest.
Note: SupercarTribe.com is not affiliated with Ferrari SPA.
The original California was a V12, while the new one was missing 4 cylinders. The original also had sporting credentials and was glamorous, while the newer California was designed to be practical, usable, and attractive for both men and women. Ferrari wanted to increase their customer base and increase sales, so the obvious choice was to design a car that could be used daily.
I for one wasn’t sure what to expect when the new model came out, and as with all Ferraris made, I came to love it. It was a true Ferrari, just different to the mid-engine V8s. It certainly was not a replacement to the V12 2+2s, as both cars served entirely different purposes. It’s actually impressive how Ferrari makes cars within a niche, yet manage to find niches within that niche to design cars within.
The 2008 California impressed me, and finally I understood the brief. It was never supposed to a replacement to the original California. The original California became a legend, but was never launched to be one. It was simply a car that American customers would appreciate to drive in sunny California, and the newer model was perfect for that too.
However, by 2014 an update was needed. Ferrari launched the California T, which was much more than just a facelift. The biggest change was under the hood, with the normally aspirated heart being replaced with a V8 twin turbo, pleasing the eco warriors. The change was significant, and every aspect of the car was improved. The interior was also made to be a much nicer place, not that the earlier car was bad by any means.
When we searched for the ultimate California T available for sale, we found many. Not surprising as it has sold amazingly well. We inspected many reds, greys, and even blues, which all look great in the shape. A huge compliment to the designers, who made a car that suits so many different shades. But as always with Drool, there is always one car that stands out. We present that car today.
I seem to be having a lot of discussions at the moment about most Ferraris being sold in colours other than red, and this Nero Daytona example demonstrates perfectly why. The car is currently for sale at Ferrari Dealer, Dick Lovett.
Here is the spec that they give:
| 20″ Forged Diamond Rims | Leather Lower Dashboard in “Cuoio” |
| Diamond Pattern Style Seats | Leather Upholst. Seat Backrest |
| Diamond Style Rear Seats in “Cuoio” | Special Handling Package |
| Exterior Sill Kick in Carbon | Tyres Pressure Measurement |
| Foldable Rear Seats Backrest | Upper Part in Colored Leather in “Cuoio” |
| Full Electric Seats | Vehicle Personalization Plate |
| High Emotion Low Emission | Visibility Equipment |
| High Power Hifi System | Boot Nets Kit |
| Horse Stitched on Headrest in “Nero” | Carbon Fibre Central Bridge |
| Inner Colour Door Pannel Trim | Carbon Fibre Cup Holder |
| Inner Colour Rear Leather Trim | Carbon Fibre Dashboard Inserts |
| Apple Carplay | Carbon Fibre Driver Zone+LEDs |
| Leather Door Pannel Cent. Trim in “Cuoio” | Coloured Mats with Logo |
I love cars that have been specced so tastefully. The interior contrasts the exterior perfectly. I love Cuoio as an interior colour, and the diamond pattern seats add so much to the car. I can’t help imagine what people will think of the newer California T in 50 years time. One thing for sure, when they see this example they will be just as wowed as when I first saw the original. Oooo Yeah…..
The car is available at Dick Lovett in England. Be Quick!
