Ferrari California

When it was introduced in 2008, purists dismissed the Ferrari California as a ‘tourist Ferrari’. Until they drove it themselves. Because once you press the start button, there’s nothing touristy about it anymore. A 4.3-litre V8 awakens, screaming to 8,000 rpm, sounding like a fiery Italian chef singing a duet with a chainsaw.

Under the hood lies the F136, the same engine family as the 430 Scuderia, but here a little more refined, as if it had donned a tie for the occasion. Ferrari’s first direct-injection engine, cleaner, faster, and smarter than its predecessors. And that new dual-clutch transmission? It shifts faster than you can blink. The first Ferrari you can drive without sore muscles, yet still delivering enough drama to make your neighbor with his 911 realize there are more fun options out there.

The California is also Ferrari’s first folding hardtop: 14 seconds from coupe to convertible. Just enough time to finish an espresso while your smile grows. And if you want to impress at a cocktail party: Michael Schumacher helped develop it.

This particular example is a rare find: Dutch-delivered, fully dealer-serviced, accident-free, with a meticulously stamped option list and books. Its service history is a model of discipline—exactly what you want from a Ferrari that is more than just beautiful.

A thoroughbred from Maranello that makes Italian fire so accessible you’ll want to take it out of the garage every day. It combines the pure, deafening thrill of a naturally aspirated V8 with the comfort of a Grand Tourer. Essentially, an Italian gentleman with a short fuse.

Start it, and you’ll understand immediately. See you soon?

“There is no alternative.” – Autocar

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