2016 Ferrari 458 Speciale Coupé
Registration no. LJ16 FPO
Chassis no. ZFF78VHT9F0208710

Although officially announced as the F430's successor, the 458 was an entirely new design, incorporating technologies developed as part of the Italian manufacturer's Formula 1 programme. The 458's specification and performance suggested that it was anything but a 'junior' Ferrari, as it boasted a 4.5-litre V8 engine producing 562bhp, an output good enough for a top speed of 325km/h (202mph). Reflecting the ongoing trend among supercars towards clutch-less semi-automatic transmissions, a seven-speed Getrag gearbox of that type was the only one available on the 458.

In keeping with Ferrari tradition, the 458's body was designed by Carrozzeria Pininfarina under the supervision of Ferrari's design director, Donato Coco. As one would expect of a car with a 200mph-plus capability, aerodynamics played a major role in the design, yet despite generating considerable downforce the 458's beautifully curvaceous body was remarkably devoid of extraneous appendages. Former Ferrari Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher had a hand in the design of the interior, which featured a steering wheel incorporating many of the controls normally located on the dashboard or on stalks, as found in modern competition cars.

Despite the apparent handicaps of 135kg weight disadvantage and regular road tyres, the 458 lapped Ferrari's Fiorano test circuit quicker than the track-focused 430 Scuderia. "This was the result of Ferrari going for gold in every department," declared evo. "The 458 represented a quantum leap in technological terms, bringing a hoard of new systems into play to create an enveloping, pure driving experience."

Spin-off models were not long in coming, the first new 458 variant being the almost inevitable Spider, introduced in 2011. The Spider was followed in 2013 by the 458 Speciale, which offered even more performance than before. Revised bodywork and active aerodynamics were two of the many advances over the original 458, together with updated electronics and an engine that now produced 597bhp.

This stunning Ferrari 458 Speciale was supplied new by official Ferrari dealers Euro Motors of Bahrain, who carried out the PDI. The Ferrari was then imported into the UK (in March 2016) where it has had one private owner. H R Owen has carried out annual services in 2016, 2017, 2018 and November 2019. Offered from a prominent UK-based private collection, this beautiful car has covered only some 400 kilometres from new and is presented in effectively 'as new' condition. A full book pack and two keys come with it.