2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale

Even when it was new, Ferrari’s 458 Speciale was widely recognized as a transcendent driver’s car. Every voting staff member of Evo, chose it as Car of the Year – the only time any car has been unanimously selected for that honor. In the dozen years since, the Speciale’s legend has only grown, substantially driven by the philosophical shift that has occurred in supercars during that period. This change in priorities has thrown into stark focus what driving enthusiasts have lost since Speciale production ceased, and its collectability has exploded as a result.

The Speciale is a racier, yet still road-going, variant of the 458 Italia, itself a remarkable car. The Italia represented a significant leap forward for Ferrari’s mid-engine eight-cylinder cars, with a host of technical updates over its F430 predecessor.

Its new aluminum space frame was stiffer and had a longer wheelbase, which provided more interior room, while shortened overhangs meant an increase in overall length of only 0.6”. For the 458, the F430’s engine was expanded from 4.3 to 4.5 liters, but made an impressive 79 hp more, bringing total output to 562 hp. This was achieved by adding direct fuel injection, raising the compression ratio from 11.3:1 to 12.5:1, reducing internal friction, improving breathing, and raising the redline by 500 rpm to 9,000 rpm.

This thrilling engine was backed by a new sevenspeed, dual-clutch transmission that transformed the gearbox from a weak point to one of the car’s highlights, thanks to significantly improved shift times and smoothness. Suspension was also dramatically improved via magnetorheological dampers, which give the 458 an uncanny combination of suppleness and body control. Coupled with an extremely fast hydraulic steering rack (two turns lock to lock), the 458 was then, and remains now, a driving revelation.

For drivers seeking an even more visceral driving experience and more exclusivity, Ferrari created the Speciale. It weighs approximately 200 lbs. less than the 458 Italia thanks to more extensive use of carbon fiber, a more sparsely trimmed interior, and even a 17 lb.-lighter engine, which also produces 35 more horsepower.

This was achieved via a lofty 14:1 compression ratio, lightened crankshaft and pistons, carbon fiber intake plenum, and revised engine management. The final drive ratio was also shortened, while different springs, sway bars, and revised steering were all fitted. Gearshifts were quickened as well.

The Speciale also incorporated significantly upgraded aerodynamics, with revisions to every body panel except the roof and doors, combined with the addition of a deeper diffuser and several moveable elements to provide active aero. The result of these changes was substantial increases in downforce while simultaneously reducing drag, a pair of characteristics that ordinarily exist in tension.

To capitalize on these upgrades, the chassis electronics include Side Slip Angle Control, which uses sensors and hardware to fundamentally alter limit handling behavior by proactively adjusting the car’s attitude rather than reacting only once the car starts sliding. The result is a car that is both more playful and easier to control.

This Speciale was originally optioned with a racing stripe, silver brake calipers, parking sensors and cameras, titanium exhaust pipes, carbon fiber engine compartment panels, and fire extinguisher. The car displayed just 2,297 miles when catalogued and was originally sold in Quebec before being imported to the US in 2016, with 250 miles on the odometer. The car spent approximately 10 years in Connecticut and retains its books, tools, and window sticker. In anticipation of its sale, the car has received a recent service and new paint protection film.

The 458 has rapidly emerged as a collector car, thanks to its combination of thrilling driving experience and competence. Much of the car’s appeal comes from its powertrain: in the long line of mid-engine eight-cylinder Ferraris, it is the only one to combine the brilliant dual-clutch transmission with the unmatched drama and responsiveness of a naturally aspirated engine. The Speciale is the electrifying product of taking these fundamentals to their most sporting conclusion, and this lightly used example stands ready to show its next keeper precisely why these cars are so sought after.