The Ferrari California T is an excellent car, designed to be a head-turning beauty providing a thrilling driving experience. Produced from 2014 to 2017, it marked a significant shift for Ferrari, as they reintroduced turbocharged engines to their lineup after a two-decade hiatus. The Ferrari California T aimed to deliver on performance, comfort, and everyday usability, improving on the offerings of its predecessor. Underneath the hood, it boasts a powerful 3.9L twin-turbo V8 engine that pumps out an impressive 552 horsepower and 557 lb-ft of torque. It's a considerable investment with a price tag north of $130,000 for a preowned unit. In this Ferrari California T review, we'll delve into the various aspects that make the Ferrari California T a sought-after masterpiece in the automotive world.
The Ferrari California T's roots can be traced back to the Paris Motor Show 2008, where the original Ferrari California debuted. After six years of the base California's fruitful existence, in 2014, the Italian automaker launched an upgraded version, the Ferrari California T. The 'T' in the California T stands for Turbo, marking the return of turbocharged engines to Ferrari's production cars after a long hiatus. The last model to feature a turbo engine was the F40, which ceased production in 1992. This major shift in the powertrain was for improved fuel economy while maintaining the performance that Ferrari is known for. The unveiling of the Ferrari California T at the Geneva Motor Show was a momentous event in Ferrari's history. While maintaining the elegance and versatility of the original California, the T variant came with substantial improvements. Ferrari never publicly disclosed the specific production numbers for the California T, as is customary for the Maranello-based automaker. However, it's estimated that several thousand units were produced during its production run from 2014 to 2017. Its limited production numbers didn't stop the California T from playing a role in expanding Ferrari's clientele. The Cali T's discontinuation in 2018 marked the end of an era, but its spirit lives on in its successor, the Ferrari Portofino.
Powering the California T is a 3.9L twin-turbocharged V8 engine that packs a massive punch, putting out a hefty 552 horsepower and 557 pound-feet of torque. This engine is a key factor differentiating the California T from its predecessor. It incorporated turbocharging for the first time since the F40 model. Ferrari employed innovative techniques to minimize turbo lag, ensuring a nearly instantaneous response. This was achieved using twin-scroll technology, which separates the exhaust gases from the two pairs of cylinders in each bank, resulting in improved throttle response times. Furthermore, the engine's power delivery was designed to be progressive across the rev range, corresponding with the increasing pressure of the turbos. The California T's engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which offers quick and seamless gear changes. It also features Variable Boost Management for optimal torque delivery and fuel efficiency, achieving a combined EPA-rated fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon. This engine sounds better than the Ferrari California, partly due to the 3-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing. When compared to its competitors, the California T stands tall with confidence. For instance, the Aston Martin DB11 has a slightly larger 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 503 horsepower and 498 pound-feet of torque, less than the California T. The DB11 also trails the California T in terms of acceleration, taking 3.9 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, with a lower top speed of 187 mph. On the other hand, the Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4, powered by a 5.2L V10 engine, produces a higher output of 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It matches the California T's 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds and surpasses it slightly with a top speed of 202 mph. Nevertheless, the California T holds an edge in fuel efficiency, overshadowing the Huracán's 14 miles per gallon.
The Ferrari Cali T has an interior that is luxurious and comfortable. The cabin features a 2+ seating layout, with a flimsy and almost unusable back seat. The seats are cloaked in premium hand-stitched Italian leather. They are designed to provide optimal support during high-speed ventures while ensuring a comfortable ride. The driver-focused cabin is ergonomic, with all controls conveniently within reach. Inspired by the F1 cars, the steering wheel sports integrated controls for turn signals, windshield wipers, and the Manettino dial, allowing the driver to alter the vehicle dynamics according to their driving preference. Behind the steering wheel is a large tachometer between two screens that display vital information such as speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. For infotainment, the California T houses a 6.5" touchscreen in the dashboard's center, integrated with navigation and a premium audio system for an auditory experience. Between the two vents on the center console is a screen shaped like the vents. A touch changes what's displayed on it, and you get different car information displayed on it. The climate control dials are intuitively designed and easy to operate, providing ideal cabin conditions irrespective of the external environment. The Ferrari California's interior offers ample storage space, including a spacious backseat better used as a storage space. The attention to detail is evident in the California T's interior, featuring aluminum accents and carbon fiber trim that add a sporty touch to the car's interior. Every element inside the California T's cabin amalgamates to create an immersive driving experience. The cabin noise level while driving is surprisingly low, making for a quiet and serene driving experience. Overall, the Ferrari California T's interior truly reflects the brand's commitment to luxury, comfort, and functionality.
The Ferrari California T's exterior design is undeniably visually appealing. The car boasts a retractable hardtop, a signature feature of the California T, which can be opened or closed in just 14 seconds. The front of the California T is home to a broad, aggressive grille and sleek LED headlights that seamlessly integrate with the car's design. The vehicle's front is further distinguished by a sculpted hood featuring pronounced lines that run down the length of the car. On the sides, the car's silhouette is marked by elegantly contoured lines and muscular wheel arches that house 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, adding to the car's dynamic stance. The side vents, not merely aesthetic but functional, aid in cooling the formidable engine. The doors are wide and offer easy access to the cabin, while the door handles are subtly integrated into the car's design, enhancing its sleek appearance. At the rear, the California T boasts a sleek and compact design, accentuated by round LED taillights and a dual-exhaust system that hints at the vehicle's impressive performance capabilities. The integrated rear spoiler adds to the car's sporty aesthetic but also aids in maintaining stability. The trunk space on the Cali T is okay, considering it also houses the hard-top roof when it's down. The space can accommodate enough luggage for a weekend getaway, making the California T a practical choice for those who love to travel in style.
The Ferrari California T has advanced technological features that enhance the overall driving experience, from infotainment to safety systems. The infotainment system, housed in a high-resolution touchscreen on the center console, offers many features. It includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming and a top-tier navigation system with real-time traffic updates. The user-friendly interface and the seamless smartphone integration, thanks to Apple CarPlay, provide an intuitive and immersive experience. The California T also boasts an impressive audio system. The 12-speaker surround-sound system, designed by renowned audio technology firm Harman Kardon, delivers crisp and clear sound quality, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience. Safety technology is also available as the vehicle features advanced safety technologies, including an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a sophisticated traction control system. The car also has parking sensors and a rearview camera to aid in tight parking situations. On the performance front, the California T features the HELE (High Emotion Low Emission) system, designed to reduce emissions while delivering high performance. It also incorporates a state-of-the-art Magnetorheological damping system that adjusts the suspension setting in real time, ensuring optimal control and comfort.
The Ferrari California T, a luxurious sports car from a world-renowned manufacturer, commands a premium price. A brand new Ferrari California T's base price is around $210,000. However, per recent market trends, a pre-owned Cali T can range between $130,000 and $180,000. The Ferrari California T doesn't have traditional trim levels but offers many customization options that allow you to customize the vehicle to your preferences. These include premium interior materials, racing and aesthetic enhancements, and advanced technology packages. Each option has an additional cost, which can significantly increase the total price.
The Ferrari California T offers an alluring exterior design with an interior with state-of-the-art technology and an engine that screams performance when you hit the throttle. If you're considering purchasing a Ferrari California T or selling a Ferrari, Exotic Car Trader offers an ideal platform. Renowned for its streamlined buying and selling process, Exotic Car Trader simplifies the transaction process, making it easy to buy or sell your car online. In summary, with its impressive design, advanced technology, and performance features, the Ferrari California T will undoubtedly be an excellent choice for a first-timer to the Ferrari brand.
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