Ferrari has released many, I mean many series of their models but you have only heard some. When it comes to Ferrari, doesn’t matter if it’s old or new, famous models like the Ferrari LaFerrari, 250 GTO, or 812 SuperFast come to your mind. But like every best thing on earth, some things always remain underrated.
Every time Ferrari releases a new series of Ferrari, it creates a hype that only some can compete. But there’s also a scenario, where Ferraris didn’t sell great, they remained unvalued and less appreciated.
One of these Ferraris is the Ferrari California, arguably one of the most underrated Ferraris that deserved every Penny. It’s just depressing how much the car has lost its value over time.
But what are the reasons that led California to lose its value and remain underappreciated even after offering the very best specs to the buyers?
A Changed Approach
Ferrari’s approach from their very first model was to make the best performance cars that take every breath on racetracks. Ferrari California changed this approach and Ferrari tried a new thing.
To attract new customers, Ferrari took a bold step by making a city-friendly vehicle. It was made roomier, more comfortable, and more fuel-efficient while still allowing the driver to experience Italian driving fervor.
The Ferrari California is for owners who want a car that shows off everything the Jumping Horse stands for in sporty looks and new ideas, but also want a car that’s more flexible than ever.
Not to mention, California being a convertible is very likely to impress top-down fans, and the unique 2+ design guarantees exceptional stability.
California has all the right stuff to become popular with future car lovers, thanks to its special and standout features compared to other Ferraris from its time.
What’s Under The Hood?
Under the hood, The Ferrari California houses a strong 4.3-liter V8 engine that can crank out 453 horsepower and 358 lb-ft of twisting force, letting the California zoom from still to 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 193 mph.
The California was also the Ferrari’s first car to use direct fuel squirting, making it go faster and use less gas. The engine works with a seven-speed two-part automatic gear changer, allowing for quick shifts and snappy driving.
With its engine sitting up front but pushed back, the California not only goes fast but also keeps its weight spread out well, helping it turn corners smoothly.
It can easily be your next Ferrari if you want a car to enjoy riding in the streets and still switch its personality to thrill racing heritage.
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Pricing and Driving Experience
When it comes to the pricing, you’ll think that especially a Ferrari with this kind of specs would be very expensive. It was valued at around $204,000 when new, but it’s surprising how much the value has dropped over time.
It’s now one of the most affordable Ferraris you can get, only valuing around $62,000 to $100,000. It’s actually more affordable than the Ferrari 458 Italia or the 456 GT making it a great option for Ferrari buyers.
The driving experience in California is great fun and manages to be comfortable too. The paddle shifters feel right at home in your hands and quick shifts up and down are satisfying.
The sport suspension gives it a great cornering ability, so every turn is basically a blast. It’s also a lot of fun with that convertible roof down and the wind in your hair as you enjoy sights and sounds.
The great thing about California is not just how it can transform from a humble cruiser to a sports car at the flick of a switch. Punch a button for sport mode, and the suspension firms up and the throttle reacts that much more immediately.
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What Went Wrong With California?
With only three models in the production run: California, California 30, and the California T, Ferrari California was produced between 2008 to 2017 and later replaced with its successor Ferrari Portofino.
But what went wrong that people straight-up called it ugly? The original California look caused mixed reactions. People thought the back was too big, made fun of the exhaust pipes, and criticized the unusual taillight setup on US cars due to laws about moving brake lights.
Many called it ugly and felt it wasn’t powerful enough to be a “real Ferrari” and was too soft. It came out when the F430 was being replaced by the 458, so Ferrari made California less powerful on purpose as it was meant for the city.
It was also the first with a DCT gearbox, which had some early problems. But many people hated it before even seeing it in person.
Surprisingly, the original Cali was sold heavily. Ferrari really improved it with the California 30, making it lighter, adding more 30hp, and it got more alive and responsive. They also fixed the gearbox issues.
The California T later improved on almost everything, despite the different sound from its turbo engines. It’s very fast, handles excellently, and the exhaust sounds great with special mufflers, though the naturally aspirated California 30 still has a nicer sound.
The Cali T still remains very underrated due to buyers being disappointed with the original Cali. It’s ironic that they heavily promoted the original Cali, yet the popularity of that original model ended up being the cause of poor sales for the Cali T.
Final Words
Initially underestimated and widely criticized for wandering away from Ferrari’s core ideology, California also ended up being a game-changer that attracted and served entirely new customers.
Offering a mix of high performance with everyday usability, it was the benchmark for anyone moving up from an expensive ride like Aston Martin and Bentley.
So, while California had all the hallmarks of a muscle car lived by an insufferable trend jockey — folding hard-top and V8 motor to boot — it also served up saucier performance without forgoing comfort.
Looking back, it epitomizes Ferrari’s ability to innovate and evolve, hence why it holds a proud place in the annals of the prancing horse.
