Comparing the latest Ferrari 2+2 V8 coupe “Amalfi” with its predecessor “California T” to explore its evolution

Ferrari Amalfi

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Ferrari California T

A relaxed exterior thanks to the coupe body

In 2008, Ferrari unveiled the California, the company’s first coupe-cabriolet with a retractable hardtop. This marked the beginning of a lineage of 2+2 coupes with a powerful V8 engine mounted in the front and rear-wheel drive, which continues on to the Amalfi, which was recently announced for introduction in Japan.

In 2014, a major minor change version, the California T, was introduced, changing the engine from a 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 to a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8. The California T also saw changes to the design of the front grille, hood, and front fender outlets.

The long nose and short deck style continued from the California remains unchanged in the latest generation Amalfi. The wheelbase remains 2670mm, but the Amalfi is 90mm longer than the California T. Furthermore, since it has a coupe body instead of a retractable hardtop, it can be said that it has a more flashy and glamorous exterior.

Ferrari Amalfi

Body size = Length 4660 x Width 1974 x Height 1301 mm

Wheelbase = 2670 mm

Vehicle weight = 1470 kg

Tire size = 245/35R20 (front), 285/35R20 (rear)

Ferrari California T

Body size = Length 4570 x Width 1910 x Height 1322 mm

Wheelbase = 2670 mm

Vehicle weight = 1625 kg

Tire size = 245/40ZR19 (front), 285/40ZR19 (rear)

The 3.9-liter V8 turbo has evolved over the past decade

The Amalfi’s 3.9-liter V8 twin-turbo engine is a natural evolution of the V8 turbo engine introduced in the California T. While the maximum torque has only improved by 5Nm, the maximum output has increased by a whopping 80PS. The engine itself has also been significantly lighter and its drivability has been improved, so when you actually step on the accelerator, you will feel an evolution that goes beyond the specs.

Ferrari Amalfi

Engine type = V8 twin turbo

Displacement = 3855cc

Maximum output = 640PS / 7500rpm

Maximum torque = 760Nm / 3000-5750rpm

Transmission = 8-speed DCT

Drive system = RWD

Top speed = 320km/h

Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h = 3.3 seconds

Ferrari California T

Engine type = V8 twin turbo

Displacement = 3855cc

Maximum output = 560PS / 7500rpm

Maximum torque = 755Nm / 4750rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = RWD

Top speed = 316km/h

0-100km/h acceleration = 3.6 seconds

“California” generated many new customers

Comparing the California T’s cockpit, with its bullet-shaped ventilation and physical switches, with the Amalfi’s latest dual cockpit layout, it may seem like more than 10 years have passed. However, the Ferrari-esque interior, with its F1-inspired steering wheel and carefully crafted leather seats, still exudes timeless charm.

The coupe-cabriolet system, a first for Ferrari, features an electrically retractable metal roof, an appealing feature not found on the Amalfi that separates the Berlinetta from the upcoming Spider. When released, the California/California T is said to have attracted many new customers as their first Ferrari. There are many low-mileage examples available on the used car market for under 20 million yen, making this a car worth choosing now.