Schumacher participated in the development of the 430 Scuderia, and is now completing the final stages of development work on Ferrari’s latest convertible.

In co-operation with legendary factory test driver Dario Benuzzi, the German multiple World Champion – along with regular tester Raffaele De Simone - has been putting miles on prototype Ferrari Californias at Fiorano. The new car, a two-seater convertible with a front-mounted V8, dual-clutch gearbox and powered hard-top, will be launched to the public at this year’s Paris show.

Schumacher commented: “I have to say that, as with the 430 Scuderia, participating in the project since the very beginning has been really fascinating and great fun. Although the cars are very different, they both offer absolutely unique driving pleasure because of the inherently sporty character of all of the cars that come out of Maranello.

"The 430 Scuderia is, of course, a more extreme model with a focus on absolutely cutting-edge performance. However, although the Ferrari California is very much a Grand Tourer in terms of its usability and high level of interior comfort, it is still surprisingly sporty and fun to drive under any kind of conditions.”

Addressing the Ferrari dealer convention in Maranello, and explaining the difference between the two 8-cylinder model lines, he added: “They were designed to meet different requirements: the 430 Scuderia is aimed at drivers who want the very essence of a Ferrari and will get it out on the track as often as they can.

“The Ferrari California, on the other hand, is designed for everyday use and for weekends away whilst still guaranteeing all of the emotional impact that only an authentic Ferrari can deliver.”

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Ferrari