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The new Ferrari Roma replaces the Portofino M as the entry-level drop-top model. Picture: SUPPLIED
The new Ferrari Roma replaces the Portofino M as the entry-level drop-top model. Picture: SUPPLIED

The Ferrari Roma Spider is the new open-air variant of the Roma grand tourer which debuted in 2021.  It’s a contemporary take on the chic, pleasure-seeking Italian lifestyle of the 1950s and 60s, says the company.

The spider also marks the return to the soft top, a solution which hasn’t been used on a front-engine Ferrari since the 1971 365 GTS/4 Daytona.

The RomaSpider takes over from the Portofino M as the brand’s entry-level drop-top, the five-layer fabric roof taking 13.5 seconds to peel off even on the move but at driving speeds below 60km/h. A wind deflector is also in place to minimise buffeting.

The Ferrari Roma Spider boasts an all-aluminium chassis and produces 456kW and 760Nm from a 3.8l V8 engine. The engine is coupled with an eight-speed DCT. Performance figures claim 3.4 secs from standstill to 100km/h and a 320km/h top speed.

Th cabin concept of two separate hubs for the driver and the passenger. Picture: SUPPLIED
Th cabin concept of two separate hubs for the driver and the passenger. Picture: SUPPLIED

It has an adjustable spoiler operated from the five-position Manettino buttons, with a low drag position at speeds below 100km/h. At speeds of over 300km/h, the spoiler is in high-downforce mode.

The goal of the Ferrari Roma Spider’s vehicle dynamics are for superior driving thrills and handling precision on a par with the hardtop Ferrari Roma, riding on mixed size 245/35 ZR 20s in front and wider 285/35 ZR 20s at the rear.

The Spider weighs 84kg more than its solid-roof cousing and has Side Slip Control which intervenes rapidly to keep things cool and level. The system is accompanied by a traditional electronic stability control system, ABS and an E-diff.

Inside, the Ferrari Roma Spider has two separate spaces, one each for driver and passenger. Whereas the driver gets all the control and access to the F1 gearbox controls and loud pedal, the passenger has an optional 8.4 inch information display.

A cloth roof opens and closes in 13 seconds and is housed securely inside a boot with double humps. Picture: SUPPLIED
A cloth roof opens and closes in 13 seconds and is housed securely inside a boot with double humps. Picture: SUPPLIED

Standard wireless connectivity by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Wi-Fi and 18-way-adjustable heated seats available with an optional neck warmer as part of in-cabin amenities. Practicality is offered by a 255l boot capacity.

A seven-year maintenance programme is offered with the Ferrari Roma Spider. At the time of publishing Scuderia SA, the local merchants of Ferrari cars hadn’t confirmed price or date of availability.

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