The Ferrari California T is already a special car on its own. It combines the famous Prancing Horse DNA with the joys of open-top motoring that can be used every day. But what if it could be made even more special?
Actually, it has. Ferrari has endowed its most successful Grand Tourer with a new Handling Speciale (HS) package that helps improve drivability in the corners, as well as makes the car sound better. It begins with stiffer springs front and back to aid handing. This gives more body control and prevents lean and pitch. Sure, it may come at the expense of ride comfort, yet the marginal sacrifice, Ferrari says, pays off handsomely when tackling the twisties.
Activated via Manettino Sport Mode switch, the setting also brings out a richer, more sonorous exhaust note. The tailpipe sound, Ferrari promises, will increase as the revs rise. And with the top down, the drive should be an aural delight.
Of course, the HS package also puts a premium on aesthetics. The exterior touches include a Grigio Ferro Met front grille, a rear diffuser set in the same shade with a touch of matte black, and more black on the tailpipes. And yes, there is a plaque that lets the world know you’ve gotten the HS package under the sheetmetal.
The Ferrari California T HS package is still powered by the same 3.8-liter V8 that puts out 560hp and 755Nm of torque. This allows it to rocket from 0-100kph in just 3.6 seconds before hitting a 316kph top speed. In the Philippines, you can check it out at Autostrada Motore Inc., located in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.