Ferrari 458 Speciale Review: Ferrari’s Last NA V8 Is A Masterpiece

The Ferrari 458 Speciale represents the pinnacle of naturally aspirated V8 performance. As a high-performance iteration of the Ferrari 458 Italia, this special edition takes an already phenomenal supercar and pushes it to new heights as we find out in this review of the 458 Speciale. 

With only 1,309 units produced between 2014 and 2015, the Speciale is a sought-after collector’s item, combining extreme aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and a high-revving engine. In this review, we delve into what makes the Ferrari 458 Speciale an all-time great, with this pristine example listed by Auto Deals on DubiCars.

Before diving into the specifics, here are five standout features and facts that make the Ferrari 458 Speciale truly extraordinary:

1. Naturally-Aspirated Masterpiece: The 458 Speciale is powered by a 4.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, giving it the name 4-5-8. It is the last mid-engined supercar from Ferrari to feature a naturally-aspirated V8 engine, as its successor — the Ferrari 488, and the 488’s successor, the Ferrari F8 were both turbocharged. Read all about the Ferrari 488’s history and various models here.

2. Lightweight Construction: Ferrari shaved 90 kg off the standard 458, using carbon fibre and lightweight materials throughout the car. Every detail is optimized for speed and agility.

3. Advanced Aerodynamics: The Speciale features active aero elements, including a unique front splitter, side vanes, and a dynamic rear diffuser for optimal downforce.

4. E-Diff & Side Slip Control (SSC): Ferrari’s cutting-edge SSC system makes the car playful yet controlled. It analyses the car’s side slip, optimising torque output to the wheels, and letting you slide through corners with confidence while maintaining stability.

5. An Appreciating Asset: The 458 Speciale was only produced in 2014 and 2015, and just 1,309 units were produced. With limited production numbers and a global cult following, it’s a dream car for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This particular car has clocked just 9,915 kilometres, making it even more valuable. In fact, used Ferrari 458 Speciale prices have risen 35% in the last five years.

The Ferrari 458 Speciale builds upon the elegant design of the standard 458 Italia, refining it for enhanced performance and aggression. It features sculpted aerodynamics, from its elongated front splitter and large air vents to the black racing stripes that add to its track-focused look. 

This particular car rides on exclusive and super stylish 20-inch forged wheels that contribute to the car’s striking stance. The rear design is dominated by a functional diffuser and dual high-mounted exhausts, setting it apart from the standard 458. Every curve and vent serves a purpose, making the Speciale one of Ferrari’s most visually compelling road cars.

Inside, the 458 Speciale is all about function over luxury. Carbon fibre dominates the cockpit, from the dashboard to the door panels, emphasizing its lightweight ethos. The seats are lightweight racing buckets wrapped in Alcantara with contrast stitching, designed to keep occupants secure during high-speed cornering. 

The flat-bottomed steering wheel integrates multiple controls, including the iconic manettino dial, allowing the driver to switch between driving modes seamlessly. Ferrari has kept distractions minimal. In other words, it doesn’t feature a traditional infotainment system, reinforcing the driver-focused nature of the Speciale.

Ferrari’s highly acclaimed and high-revving 4.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 powers the Ferrari 458 Speciale. It produces 597hp and 540Nm and drives the rear wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This gearbox shifts gear 44% quicker than in the standard 458.

Performance:

The Speciale’s handling is equally impressive, thanks to Ferrari’s advanced E-Diff and Side Slip Control (SSC) system. These features allow for precision cornering and controlled slides, making it one of the most engaging Ferraris ever built. The sound of the naturally-aspirated V8 is another highlight, delivering a raw and intoxicating soundtrack that reaches a crescendo at 9,000rpm — a sound its turbocharged successors simply can’t replicate.

The Ferrari 458 Speciale remains highly desirable, with prices reflecting its legendary status. Current market values range from AED 920,000 to AED 2,886,000, depending on mileage and condition. This particular Ferrari 458 Speciale listed by Auto Deals on DubiCars is priced at AED 1,695,000. Notably, the average resale price of a 458 Speciale has surged by 35% since 2020.

The 458 Speciale is one of Ferrari’s finest creations, offering a raw, exhilarating driving experience that modern turbocharged supercars struggle to match. From its breathtaking design to its high-revving, naturally aspirated V8, every aspect of the car is engineered for pure driving pleasure. 

Limited production numbers and rising values make it a prized possession for enthusiasts and collectors alike. For those looking to own a pristine example, this stunning 2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale is currently available through Auto Deals on DubiCars.

The Ferrari 458 Speciale is special because it is the last naturally aspirated mid-engined V8 Ferrari, offering 597hp and a 9,000 rpm redline. With advanced aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and cutting-edge driving technology, it delivers an unmatched driving experience. Its exclusivity and rising market value further add to its desirability.

Ferrari produced only 1,309 units of the 458 Speciale between 2014 and 2015, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector’s car.

The price of a Ferrari 458 Speciale varies based on mileage and condition, ranging from AED 920,000 to AED 2,886,000. This particular unit listed by Auto Deals on DubiCars is priced at AED 1,695,000, with values appreciating by around 35% since 2020.

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