Header photo: Kroymans Ferrari
Ferrari California (2008–2014): Full Specs, Performance, Dimensions, and Features
Discover everything about the Ferrari California. Launched in 2008, the California marked a number of firsts for Ferrari: the first front‑mounted V8, the first dual‑clutch 7‑speed gearbox, the first folding metal hardtop convertible, and the first Ferrari with direct fuel injection. It was positioned as a grand tourer with everyday usability.
Overview
Assembly: Maranello, Italy
Body style: 2-door retractable-hardtop convertible
Designer: Pininfarina under Ken Okuyama
Layout: Front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 2008–2014
Aerodynamics and Design
Roof system: Retractable folding hardtop (RHT) in aluminium
Aerodynamic drag coefficient: 0.32
Exhaust: Stacked twin exhaust tips (rear bumper mounted)
Notes: First Ferrari road car with front‑mounted V8 layout
Dimensions and Weight
Wheelbase: 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length: 4,563 mm (179.7 in)
Width: 1,902 mm (74.9 in)
Height: 1,308 mm (51.5 in)
Dry weight: 1,630 kg (3,594 lb)
Kerb weight: 1,735 kg (3,825 lb)
Weight distribution: 47% front / 53% rear
Fuel tank capacity: 78 L (20.6 US gal)
Boot capacity (roof up): 340 L (12.0 cu ft)
Boot capacity (roof down): 240 L (8.5 cu ft)
Engine and Powertrain
Engine type: 4.3 L naturally aspirated V8 (F136 IB)
Displacement: 4,297 cc
Maximum power: 460 PS (454 hp; 338 kW) @ 7,750 rpm
Maximum torque: 485 Nm (358 lb‑ft) @ 5,000 rpm
Maximum revs: 8,000 rpm (limiter)
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch F1 DCT
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
E-Diff: F1-Trac traction control with limited-slip differential
Performance
0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): 4.0 s
Top speed: 310 km/h (193 mph)
Braking distance 100–0 km/h: 34.0 m (111.5 ft)
Braking distance 200–0 km/h: 139.0 m (456.0 ft)
Wheels and Braking
Front brakes: 390 × 34 mm carbon-ceramic discs, 6‑piston calipers
Rear brakes: 360 × 32 mm carbon-ceramic discs, 4‑piston calipers
Front tires: 245/40 ZR19
Rear tires: 285/40 ZR19
Ferrari California 30
In 2012, Ferrari introduced the California 30 upgrade, named for its 30 kg (66 lb) weight reduction and 30 PS (30 hp) power increase. Thanks to lighter alloy chassis components and improved engine tuning, the California 30 reached 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than before. A new optional Handling Speciale package was also introduced, improving steering response and chassis rigidity.
Special Edition: 2013 Ferrari California ‘Giappone’
Limited to just 10 units for the Japanese market, the California 30 Giappone was unveiled during Ferrari Legend Days at Suzuka Circuit in 2013. It celebrated 25 years since Ferrari's first Formula One win in Japan. The car featured a matte Bianco Italia exterior with a black folding hardtop, red leather interior, carbon-fibre trim, and a Japanese flag motif on the centre console. Design elements echoed the 599 GTO, including diamond-cut wheels and a distinctive front grille.
Related
The models listed below share a connection with the Ferrari California.
1957 Ferrari 250 California
The inspiration for the California name. Built in extremely limited numbers, it was a front‑engined V12 convertible GT designed for both touring and track use.
Photo: Wouter Melissen
2014 Ferrari California T
Successor to the California. Introduced turbocharging and a redesigned exterior while retaining the hardtop convertible GT format.
Photo: Driving Emotions
