Since 1999, I had opportunitiee to conduct test drive reviews and advanced performance driving training.
Recently, I was called upon by The New Straits Times Press Malaysia to review the Ferrari California T, a remarkable opportunity provided by Ferrari Malaysia.
The California T, Ferrari’s entry-level model, was launched with much anticipation. For this review,
I embarked on a thrilling journey to Ulu Yam and Genting Highlands, accompanied by a dedicated NSTP team. Our convoy included a BMW GS1200 and a Yamaha R1 ridden by our videographer and cameramen, with a Mitsubishi Evo 10 serving as the camera car.
Handling and Performance
The Ferrari California T embodies the quintessential Italian-Ferrari feel, with handling that’s both refined and engaging.
The car’s weight distribution and balance are impeccable, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The turbocharged engine offers a linear power delivery, with torque available from very low RPMs all the way up to the redline at 7,000+ RPM.
This made accelerating to speeds between 240 to 260 km/h seem almost effortless.
Suspension and Interior
One of the standout features of the California T is its exquisite suspension system. It provides a perfect blend of comfort and performance, absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road while maintaining a firm grip during aggressive driving.
The suspension handled Malaysian potholes and undulating B-roads perfectly, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride even on less-than-ideal surfaces.
The interior of the car is equally impressive, with luxurious materials and meticulous craftsmanship that Ferrari is renowned for. Every detail, from the seats to the dashboard, exudes quality and sophistication.
Sound and Driving Experience
The sound of the California T is another aspect that enhances the driving experience.
The engine produces a deep, throaty roar that is unmistakably Ferrari, adding to the exhilaration of driving. The car’s exhaust note changes character as you rev higher, creating an auditory delight that complements its performance.
During the review, I had the opportunity to push the car to its limits, including some spirited driving with the traction control turned off. The California T handled these situations with grace, allowing for controlled slides and providing a thrilling, yet manageable driving experience.
The Legacy of the California Series
The Ferrari California had quite a contentious introduction back in 2009; here was a four-seater, front-engined cabriolet with a folding hardtop roof, dual-clutch gearbox, and questionable styling.
In reality, the California was always going to be a hard pill to swallow for die-hard Ferrari fans, but the reason for its introduction was to expand the Ferrari brand, reaching out to customers who would not have previously considered buying one of its cars.
The California did its job, becoming the single highest-selling Ferrari model in the Italian marque’s long history – much to many car journalists’ dismay.
So when the heavily revised California T arrived, it had the tricky task of trying to appease its critics while not turning off its adopters.
On the outside, Ferrari gave the California a substantial facelift, with only the folding roof mechanism surviving the process intact.
Underneath the new metal, however, saw even bigger changes. After a four-year development, the Ferrari California T introduced a turbocharged engine (hence the ‘T’) back to the Ferrari range for the first time in the 22 years since the F40 supercar ceased production.
It was always going to be a challenge for Ferrari to try and match the emotional appeal so prevalent in its naturally aspirated engines with a turbo unit, but thanks to some clever engineering, it seems to have gotten away with it.
Ferrari California T: In Detail
The California T may be the entry-level Ferrari, but performance is startlingly fast, the car hitting 62mph in just 3.6 seconds.
Engine and Gearbox
The “T” in the name denotes the presence of an all-new 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8, matched exclusively to a dual-clutch gearbox.
Ride and Handling
Despite a clear bias towards being a GT rather than an out-and-out sports car, the California T is still a Ferrari, so it is more capable than owners could possibly need it to be.
MPG and Running Costs
The main reason behind the smaller, turbocharged engine is enhanced economy; the extra performance is just a bonus.
Interior and Tech
Sharing the same basic architecture as previous Californias, the interior is lusciously finished, but lacks the wow-factor of less expensive rivals.
Design
The folding metal roof demands a tall rear deck, which is why the California T can look awkward from the rear. Otherwise, the car is a far better-looking proposition than previously.
Thanks to this dual personality, the California T can be cross-shopped against a wide selection of rivals, the closest arguably being the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet.
The 911 Turbo packs a bit more punch in the engine department and has even more standard equipment but is still a very high-spec sports car rather than a true GT.
Conclusion
The Ferrari California T may be considered the entry-level model in Ferrari’s lineup, but it offers an unparalleled driving experience that is anything but basic.
Its handling, power delivery, suspension, and overall driving dynamics make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or carving through mountain roads, the California T delivers in every aspect, making it a truly remarkable sports car.
This test drive not only reaffirmed Ferrari’s reputation for creating exceptional vehicles but also provided an unforgettable experience that highlights the brand’s commitment to performance, luxury, and driving pleasure.
